UVA Defense Serum: Why Protection is Important Throughout the Year
The geographical location of the Netherlands ensures that the intensity of UV radiation varies throughout the year. In autumn and winter, UVB radiation decreases, but UVA radiation remains present all year round. This means that UVA penetrates deep into the skin and impacts skin aging and skin health, regardless of the season. The UVA Defense Serum has been developed as a supplement to daily skin care and contains Porphyra Umbilicalis extract, Niacinamide, and Chondrus Crispus, which support the skin when exposed to daylight.
UVA vs. UVB: What is the difference?
Sun rays consist of different types of ultraviolet radiation, of which UVA and UVB are the most important:
UVB radiation (290-320 nm) reaches the outer skin layer (epidermis) and is responsible for sunburn. This type of radiation is largely blocked by skin pigmentation, which means that people with dark skin have more natural protection against UVB damage.
UVA radiation (320-400 nm) penetrates much deeper into the skin and is not blocked by skin pigmentation. Research shows that all skin types (Fitzpatrick I-VI), regardless of skin color, are equally vulnerable to UVA damage.
Why is that important? Because UVA radiation produces free radicals, which can lead to damage to collagen and elastin in the dermis. This accelerates the aging process and can contribute to DNA damage in skin cells.
More about UVA, UVB and SPF
How does UVA cause skin aging?
UVA radiation penetrates deeply into the skin and stimulates the formation of free radicals (reactive oxygen species, ROS). These unstable molecules break down collagen and elastin, two proteins that together ensure a firm and resilient skin.
Many people know collagen as the protein that gives skin structure and firmness. When collagen breaks down, the skin loses volume and wrinkles can form. Elastin is at least as important. This protein ensures that the skin bounces back after every movement, such as laughing or frowning. When elastin gets damaged, the skin loses its resilience and can become saggy.
The big difference? Collagen can partly be stimulated with skin care, while elastin is hardly recreated once it breaks down. That’s why protection is important.
So with Elastine gone = gone
The role of UVA radiation in melanoma
The number of cases of melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, is increasing worldwide. Although the impact of UVB radiation on melanoma has been well-studied, less is known about the role of UVA radiation. Research shows that UVA causes oxidative stress in melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin. This can lead to DNA damage and disruption of genes, increasing the chances of mutations.
Various studies show that UVA radiation contributes to damage to melanocytes and can even stimulate the development of melanoma. Epidemiological studies indicate that frequent use of sunbeds, which primarily emit UVA radiation, increases the risk of melanoma. Some studies even show a dose-response relationship, which means that a higher exposure to UVA is associated with a greater risk of melanoma.
UVA Defense Serum: Specific care when exposed to daylight
Increasing research shows that prolonged exposure to UVA radiation not only contributes to skin aging, but can also play a role in the development of melanoma. Because UVA radiation is present throughout the year and penetrates glass, the skin is also exposed during driving, working by a window, or indoors.
Many people only use sunscreen on sunny days, but neglect daily protection. This can have various reasons:
✔ Sunscreen feels too heavy or greasy, especially on oily or combination skin.
✔ Not everyone thinks about wearing SPF daily, especially on a cloudy gloomy day.
✔ Make-up or skincare sometimes adheres less well to sun protection products.
✔ Inside, sun protection seems less necessary, while UVA radiation also penetrates through windows.
To support the skin daily, a lighter formula like the UVA Defense Serum can provide a solution. This serum contains Porphyra Umbilicalis extract, Niacinamide, and Chondrus Crispus, which help care for the skin when exposed to daylight. The non-greasy, quickly absorbing formula makes it easy to combine with a day cream or makeup, without the feeling of a heavy sunscreen.
Violet dispenser
All our serums are packaged in a patented glass dispenser, which is specifically designed to protect the ingredients. This glass filters the right light, thereby naturally preserving the formulation and maintaining the effectiveness of the active ingredients.
Hyaluronic Acid as a Base in All Iconic Elements Serums
Our serums contain hyaluronic acid in various molecular sizes, which contributes to effective and versatile hydration of the skin. High molecular hyaluronic acid remains on the skin surface and helps retain moisture, making the skin immediately hydrated and smooth. Low molecular hyaluronic acid has a smaller structure, allowing it to penetrate deeper into the epidermis and support the skin’s natural hydration. This combination ensures that the skin remains hydrated both immediately and in the long term.
Extract of Porphyra Umbilicalis
Porphyra Umbilicalis extract contains mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs), natural substances used by seaweeds to protect themselves against sunlight. This property makes it a useful cosmetic ingredient, where it is used in formulas that support the skin during exposure to daylight.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Niacinamide supports skin balance and contributes to a uniform appearance by caring for the skin and helping to maintain an even skin tone. In addition, it helps keep the skin hydrated, making it feel soft and smooth.
Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss)
Chondrus Crispus (Irish moss) contains natural moisturizing components that help the skin retain moisture. In addition, it supports moisture balance and contributes to a soft and supple skin.
The light, non-greasy formula makes this serum suitable for daily use, under a cream or makeup. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive ones.
INGREDIENTS list
Water, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Xanthan Gum, Chondrus Crispus Powder, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Levulinate, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil*, Sodium Hyaluronate, Porphyra Umbilicalis Extract, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Lactic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Phytic Acid, Potassium Lactate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Lactate, Daucus Carota Sativa Root Extract*, Citric Acid, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract*. * from organic cultivation
As you’ve come to expect from Iconic Elements, all of our skincare products are free of microplastics and cruelty-free. In addition, they are formulated with a skin-ideal pH of 5, which aligns with the natural acidity of the skin. This supports the skin balance and ensures that our formulas are effective and gentle, without unnecessarily burdening the skin.
How does the UVA Defense Serum differ from your day cream with natural UVA filter?
| Property | UVA Defense Serum | Daycream with natural UVA filter |
| Purpose | Support during exposure to daylight, hydration, and even skin tone | Hydration and support of the skin barrier |
| Main function | Supports the skin during UVA exposure | Contains nourishing oils and antioxidants |
| Active ingredients | Porphyra Umbilicalis, Niacinamide, Chondrus Crispus | Plant-based oils, Porphyra Umbilicalis |
| Usage | Under cream or make-up | As a hydrating day cream |
| Suitable for | All skin types, including sensitive skin | Normal to dry skin |
A day cream with UVA filter provides hydration and overall support, while the UVA Defense Serum is specifically developed as additional care when exposed to daylight.
FAQ – UVA Defense Serum
Do I need UVA protection if I am already using SPF?
SPF primarily provides protection against UVB radiation, while UVA radiation penetrates deeper into the skin and is also present on cloudy days and indoors. Therefore, an additional care product like the UVA Defense Serum can be a valuable addition to your routine.
Does the UVA Defense Serum protect against the sun?
The UVA Defense Serum does not contain SPF. It is designed to supplement a skincare routine to support the skin when exposed to daylight. For prolonged exposure to the sun and during the spring and summer period in the Netherlands, an SPF 30 or higher is recommended.
Can I combine the serum with my day cream?
Yes, the light texture makes it easy to combine with a hydrating Iconic Elements cream or sunscreen. Apply the serum to a cleansed skin, followed by a cream or SPF.
Is UVA radiation more harmful than UVB?
UVA and UVB have different effects on the skin. UVB causes sunburn, while UVA causes deeper skin aging and collagen breakdown. UVA is present all year round, even on cloudy days and penetrates through windows.
Can I also use the UVA Defense Serum in the winter?
Yes, because UVA radiation is present all year round, the serum can be used daily, regardless of the season.
How do I combine UVA Defense Serum with other Iconic Elements skincare products?
Below is a clear scheme on how to combine your morning and evening routine. If you have any questions, send us a message: info@iconic-elements.com
In Other Words
UVA radiation is not seasonal and penetrates deep into the skin, leading to free radicals, collagen breakdown, and premature skin aging. The UVA Defense Serum provides specific care when exposed to daylight and is easy to combine with a daily skincare routine.
Do you want to better support your skin in the face of UVA exposure? Consider a skin routine that goes beyond just SPF.
