UV radiation, or ultraviolet radiation, is a type of electromagnetic radiation that comes from the sun. There are three types of UV radiation: UVA, UVB and UVC. The different UV rays also have different properties and each one affects our bodies differently. We briefly explain the differences in the UV ABC.

UVA radiation makes up about 95% of the UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface, while UVB radiation makes up the remaining 5%. Both UVA and UVB radiation can cause damage to the skin and eyes. It is important to understand the differences between them to protect yourself from their harmful effects.

UVA radiation

UVA radiation has longer wavelengths than UVB radiation, allowing it to penetrate deeper into the skin. This type of radiation can cause skin aging, wrinkles and other forms of skin damage. In addition, UVA radiation is associated with an increased risk of skin cancer, including the most deadly form of skin cancer, melanoma.

UVB radiation

UVB radiation has shorter wavelengths and is responsible for sunburn, skin redness and other forms of skin damage. It is also associated with an increased risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancer.

UVC radiation

UVC radiation has the shortest wavelengths of the three types of UV radiation and is largely absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere before it can reach the surface. However, UVC radiation can still be found in certain man-made sources, such as welding torches and mercury lamps. Exposure to UVC radiation can cause skin and eye damage, as well as other health effects. Although most people are not exposed to UVC radiation, it is the most harmful form of UV radiation.

Protect your skin with SPF

With a good Sun Protection Factor (SPF), you can protect your skin from UVB radiation. Protection from UVA radiation in sunscreen is not a given. At Ivy, we recommend emerginC’s SUN SPF +30. A natural sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection based on zinc and titanium dioxide, plus added vitamins C and E. The sunscreen helps keep skin in good condition during and after sun exposure.

Sun strength here and on vacation

Burning your skin has to do with sun strength. Sun strength is the amount of ultraviolet radiation (UV) reaching the earth. The expected amount of UV is expressed in a UV index. This can range from 0 to 8 in the Netherlands. At 0 there is no UV and 8 represents the maximum amount of UV sunlight. The number says something about the strength of the radiation and how quickly the radiation can cause damage to skin and eyes. Sun strength varies by season and time of day. There are especially large differences in sun strength by country. In the Netherlands, sun strength in summer is between 4 and 7. Going on vacation to Spain? There the sun force is often 10, an unprotected skin burns in less than 10 minutes at sun force 10. In Australia, sun strength is very strong, as much as 14-15. UV radiation is made stronger by reflection through sand and water (10-20%). Reflection through fresh snow and ice is even 80-90%.