You diligently apply sunscreen before heading to the beach. But did you know the most dangerous rays also penetrate through clouds, windows, and even your car windshield? UVA rays are the silent skin agers, active year-round, and most people don't protect themselves adequately.
In this article, we explain what UVA rays actually do, why they're more dangerous than you think, and which pharmacy products offer the best protection. With real price comparisons at Belgian online pharmacies.
UVA vs UVB: what's the difference?
The sun emits different types of ultraviolet radiation. The two that reach our skin are UVA and UVB:
- UVB rays are the well-known culprits: they cause sunburn and mainly affect the skin's surface. They're strongest between 10am and 4pm and are largely blocked by glass.
- UVA rays penetrate much deeper into the skin, reaching the dermis. They're responsible for premature ageing, pigmentation spots, and increase skin cancer risk. The catch? They're present year-round, even on cloudy days, and pass through ordinary glass.
Why are UVA rays so harmful?
Skin ageing from within
UVA rays reach the deeper skin layers where collagen and elastin reside. Chronic exposure breaks down these fibres, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and a dull complexion. This process, called photoageing, accounts for an estimated 80% of visible skin ageing.
Pigmentation spots
UVA rays stimulate melanocytes, producing dark spots, melasma, and an uneven skin tone that's difficult to treat.
Increased skin cancer risk
Research shows UVA rays damage DNA in skin cells and contribute to melanoma development.
The best sun protection products compared
We compared prices at Belgian online pharmacies. The differences are sometimes surprising.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Fluid SPF50+
The gold standard for UVA protection with patented MEXORYL 400 filter.
- Price: from €16.33 to €35.69 at 4 pharmacies - save up to €19.36
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La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Spray SPF50+
Easy application, invisible finish, waterproof.
- Price: from €17.19 to €38.99 at 3 pharmacies - save up to €21.80
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Vichy Capital Soleil Dry Touch SPF50
Mattifying formula ideal for oily and combination skin.
- Price: from €18.19 to €36.99 at 6 pharmacies - save up to €18.80
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Avène Sun SPF50+ Reflex Pocket
Compact format, perfect for on-the-go touch-ups.
- Price: from €9.88 to €35.55 at 2 pharmacies - save up to €25.67
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SVR Sun Secure Cream SPF50+ with FREE After Sun
Complete set with protection and after-sun care.
- Price: from €21.24 to €46.05 at 2 pharmacies - save up to €24.81
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Heliocare 360 Pigment Solution Fluid SPF50+
Specially designed for pigmentation-prone skin.
- Price: from €25.50 to €44.89 at 3 pharmacies - save up to €19.39
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Isdin Post Solar After Sun Spray
Lightweight, refreshing after-sun spray.
- Price: from €12.20 to €33.53 at 3 pharmacies - save up to €21.33
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La Roche-Posay Hydraphase HA Light SPF25
Hydrating day cream with built-in sun protection.
- Price: from €22.67 to €45.49 at 2 pharmacies - save up to €22.82
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Always compare prices
Price differences for pharmacy products are striking. At PharmaCompare, we compare prices at licensed Belgian online pharmacies - so you get the best protection without overpaying.
Compare prices on PharmaCompare →
This article was inspired by Why are UVA Rays Harmful? from Le French Skin Care Blog.