Broad-spectrum sunscreen, the ideal UVA and UVB protection for your skin

Dr. Andrew Birnie, a British dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon, founded Altruist with one clear mission: “To reduce the incidence of skin cancer by promoting the use of high-quality sunscreen—combined with education and awareness.”

At Altruist, we believe effective sun protection must be accessible and understandable for everyone. That’s why we create sunscreens that do what they should: protect against harmful UV radiation, free from unnecessary additives, and mindful of both your skin and long-term health.

What Is Broad Spectrum Sunscreen?
The term “broad spectrum sunscreen” means the product protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. This is essential, as each type of radiation affects the skin differently—but both can be damaging.

• Many sunscreens focus primarily on UVB (which causes sunburn), but don’t underestimate UVA.

  • UVA penetrates deeper into the skin, playing a major role in aging and skin cancer.

  • A high SPF alone does not automatically guarantee UVA protection.

Broad spectrum sunscreen is therefore indispensable for anyone serious about protecting their skin—not just from sunburn, but also from premature aging and cellular damage.

UVA vs. UVB – What’s the Difference?
To understand why broad spectrum sunscreen is so important, it helps to know the difference between UVA and UVB:

• UVA rays are present year-round, even on cloudy days and indoors through glass. They damage the deeper layers of skin and accelerate collagen breakdown, leading to wrinkles and sagging.

• UVB rays are strongest in summer, causing immediate sunburn and DNA damage. Both UVA and UVB contribute to the risk of skin cancer.

Why SPF Alone Isn’t Enough
Many people focus solely on SPF (Sun Protection Factor) when choosing sunscreen. However, SPF only measures UVB protection. It says nothing about UVA defense. Thus, an SPF 50 sunscreen may still offer insufficient UVA protection unless it’s explicitly labeled broad spectrum.

In Europe, you can recognize this by the UVA logo in a circle, indicating it meets minimum UVA protection standards (at least one-third of the UVB rating). A high SPF may prevent burning, but without proper UVA protection, your skin will still age prematurely. Always choose products labeled broad spectrum for balanced defense.

ltruist Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Products

Altruist offers a carefully curated range of broad spectrum sunscreens—with protection against UVA and UVB. Developed by dermatologists, tested on sensitive skin, and free from unnecessary additives. Here are three popular options:

Altruist Sunscreen SPF 50 (100 ml)

A powerful, fragrance-free, broad spectrum sunscreen ideal for extended outdoor use or sensitive skin.

• ✔ Suitable for face & body

• ✔ UVA + UVB protection

• ✔ Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic

• ✔ Excellent for sensitive skin

• 🔹 Also available in SPF 30 and 200 ml sizes

Altruist Face Fluid SPF 50

An ultra-light face sunscreen perfect for daily use under makeup or as the final step in your skincare routine.

• ✔ Matte finish, quick-absorbing

• ✔ Broad spectrum SPF 50

• ✔ Designed for face and neck

• ✔ Works as a primer

Great for those seeking protection without shine or stickiness.

Altruist Family Sunspray SPF 50 (250 ml)

A family-friendly spray formula that’s easy to apply—perfect for all ages.

• ✔ Large bottle, travel-friendly

• ✔ Broad spectrum UVA + UVB

• ✔ Very mild and fragrance-free

• ✔ Ideal for children and adults with sensitive skin

FAQs About Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

What exactly does “broad spectrum sunscreen” mean?
It provides protection against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) radiation. Only sunscreens that block both offer full protection.

Is SPF alone enough?
No. SPF only covers UVB protection. For UVA defense—responsible for aging—you need broad spectrum sunscreen or UVA certification.

How can I identify broad spectrum sunscreen?
Check the packaging: it should state protection against UVA + UVB. In Europe, look for the UVA logo in a circle. All Altruist sunscreens offer this double protection.

Which Altruist product is best for daily use?
The Face Fluid SPF 50 is ideal—lightweight, fast-absorbing, no white cast, and compatible with makeup. And of course, it’s broad spectrum.

Can I use broad spectrum sunscreen in winter?
Absolutely. UVA rays are present year-round, even in winter and on cloudy days. Broad spectrum sunscreen protects daily from invisible damage, not just in summer.