What the ‘secret’ labels on sun cream bottles mean

This is what the ‘secret’ UV label on your sun cream bottle really means.

Summer is nearly here in the UK - or so we hope - so knowing what all-important sun cream we need to be buying is a good bit of knowledge.

Despite most people grabbing whatever is on offer, the ‘secret’ label actually has an important meaning, and it’s all to do with the UVA protection.

“It's crucial to choose a broad-spectrum sun cream." (Oscar Wong/Getty Images)

Hidden on the back of the bottle is a star rating, which shows the level of UVA protection you're getting from the cream.

Burak Ersoy, Founder of Badge Clinic has explained exactly what it all means.

Talking to Yahoo News, he said: “UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin and are responsible for long-term damage, such as premature ageing and skin cancer.

“Understanding the star rating empowers consumers to make informed choices and select sun creams that provide adequate UVA protection for their specific needs.”

The rating ranges from one to five, with five indicating the highest level of UVA protection.

Mr Ersoy continued: "As the summer season reaches its peak, this newfound knowledge couldn't come at a better time.

“I encourage consumers to flip their sun cream bottles and take note of the star rating, which should enable them to make more informed decisions about their sun protection regimen.

“By prioritising both SPF and the star rating, individuals can ensure comprehensive protection against both UVB and UVA rays, shielding their skin from the detrimental effects of sun exposure.”

So, other than the UVA protection, what should we be prioritising in our sun cream?

“I encourage consumers to flip their sun cream bottles." (Nikolas Kokovlis/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Physical blockers such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide offer a protective barrier for your skin.

Chemical filters such as avobenzone, octinoxate, or oxybenzone help to absorb radiation, turning it into heat.

Aloe Vera, commonly found in after-sun care, can also be found in certain sun creams to help keep the skin moisturised.

Mr Ersoy said: “It's crucial to choose a broad-spectrum sun cream with an appropriate SPF level for your skin type.

"Regular application, especially when spending time outdoors, can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature ageing.”

If you have sensitive skin, fragrance-free or hypoallergenic sun creams are recommended to minimise the risk of irritation.

Also on your sun cream tick list should be antioxidants like vitamin E and green tea extracts.

They help to neutralise harmful UV exposure which reduces skin damage.