PA++++ explained: the Korean and Japanese UVA rating

PA is the UVA rating used across Korea and Japan, based on the persistent pigment darkening method. More plus signs mean more UVA protection: PA+ is some protection, PA++ moderate, PA+++ high and PA++++ extremely high. SPF measures only UVB, which is why you need both numbers.

SPF and PA measure different things

SPF describes protection against UVB, the range primarily responsible for burning. PA describes protection against UVA, which penetrates more deeply and is associated with pigmentation and photoageing. A high SPF with no meaningful UVA protection leaves a real gap.

Reading the plus signs

The rating derives from the persistent pigment darkening protection factor. Broadly: PA+ corresponds to some protection, PA++ to moderate, PA+++ to high, and PA++++ to extremely high. For daily use in Korea, PA+++ or PA++++ is the normal expectation.

How it compares with the European system

The EU uses a different approach: a 2006 Commission Recommendation says a UVA claim should mean UVA protection of at least a third of the labelled SPF, shown by the UVA-in-a-circle logo. It is a recommendation rather than binding law, but it is followed almost universally and retailers expect it. Different systems, similar intent — Korea's simply reports the UVA figure more explicitly.

What to buy

For daily use, look for SPF 30 or higher together with PA+++ or PA++++. Beyond that, the deciding factor should be whether the texture is one you will genuinely reapply.

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✍️ Written & reviewed by the KoreaPlus Editorial team — dermatologist-informed, cosmetic-science researched & source-cited. Last reviewed: 2026-08-23.

General educational information using cosmetic structure-function wording — not medical advice. Always patch-test new actives. © KoreaPlus.