As the summer heat intensifies, many people reach for sunscreen to protect their skin from harmful UV radiation. Sunscreens are a vital part of any skincare routine, especially during the warmer months, when the risk of sunburn and skin damage is at its peak. However, a recent report has raised serious concerns about the effectiveness of some popular sunscreen brands, prompting health experts to issue warnings to consumers.

According to a report from consumer advocate group Which?, several sunscreens, including some well-known brands, failed to meet industry standards for sun protection, putting users at risk of skin damage and even skin cancer. The findings reveal alarming gaps in UV protection, particularly in some high-priced sunscreens, which may not be as effective as advertised. In this article, we will explore the findings of the Which? report, the dangers of inadequate sunscreen protection, and what you can do to ensure you are properly safeguarding your skin from harmful UV rays.

The Importance of Sunscreen: Protecting Your Skin from UV Damage

Sunscreen is essential for protecting the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. The two primary types of UV rays are UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and are primarily responsible for aging and wrinkles, while UVB rays are responsible for causing sunburn and playing a significant role in the development of skin cancer.

According to Dr. Bav Shergill, a consultant dermatologist and spokesperson for the British Association of Dermatologists, "Sunscreens are a safe and effective way to protect your skin from burning and other forms of sun damage." Over the years, studies have consistently shown that sunscreen can prevent sunburn and protect the skin from the harmful effects of both UVA and UVB radiation. However, with the increasing number of sunscreen options available, it is crucial for consumers to choose products that are both safe and effective.

The Shocking Findings of the Which? Report: Sunscreens That Failed to Protect

The Which? report, which tested 15 different sunscreen products from popular brands like Boots, Garnier, and Nivea, revealed that not all sunscreens live up to their claims. One of the most concerning findings from the report was that a £28 sunscreen, Ultrasun Family SPF30, failed two separate tests for both sun protection factor (SPF) and UV protection.

Consumer champion Which? tested 15 sun creams from Boots, Garnier and Nivea, as well as own-brand alternatives - with surprising results



Ultrasun Family SPF30 (left), sold by some of the biggest high street retailers, markets itself as being 'perfect for the whole family' and 'especially suitable for children with sensitive skin'. Another sunscreen that made it on to the Don't Buy list was Morrisons Moisturising Sun Spray SPF30 - £3.75 per bottle

Ultrasun Family SPF30, which is marketed as "perfect for the whole family" and "especially suitable for children with sensitive skin," was found to be ineffective in protecting against UV rays. The tests conducted by Which? involved applying the sunscreen to volunteers' skin and exposing them to UV light to measure the time it took for their skin to redden. Sunscreens that passed the tests were required to provide at least one-third of the claimed SPF level. However, Ultrasun Family SPF30 did not meet this standard, raising serious concerns about its ability to offer adequate sun protection.

While Ultrasun’s representatives defended their product, stating that their testing protocols surpassed industry standards, "As an independent brand delivering very high UVB and UVA protection options for over 30 years, our detailed testing processes, independent and peer-reviewed, continue to not only meet but surpass industry standards," the report’s findings suggest otherwise.

The Which? report also found that some cheaper, supermarket-brand sunscreens, such as Morrisons Moisturising Sun Spray SPF30 (£3.75), did not pass the tests either. Despite this, other affordable sunscreens such as Aldi’s Lacura Sensitive Sun Lotion SPF50+ (£2.99) and Lidl’s Cien Sun Spray SPF30 (£3.79) performed well, providing reliable protection against harmful UV radiation.

Alternatives that did pass the test, however, included Aldi's Lacura Sensitive Sun Lotion SPF50+ - which costs just £2.99, and was found to protect skin from both UVA and UVB rays, as claimed. As did Lidl's Cien Sun Spray 30SPF High - at just £3.79

Why is the Effectiveness of Sunscreen So Important?

The potential consequences of using ineffective sunscreen are severe. Skin cancer, particularly melanoma, is one of the most common and deadly forms of cancer. According to Cancer Research UK, over 15,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with melanoma each year, making it the fifth most common cancer in the country. The incidence rate of melanoma has been rising steadily, with a 30% increase in new diagnoses over the past decade.

“Increased UV exposure can damage the DNA in skin cells, triggering mutations that can become cancerous,” explained experts from Cancer Research UK. Melanoma is responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths, with 87% of cases linked to overexposure to UV radiation, either from the sun or tanning beds. The importance of sunscreen in preventing these types of cancers cannot be overstated.

Boot's Soltan Protect & Moisturise Suncare Spray SPF30 - £5.50 - also performed well

It’s critical that consumers choose sunscreens that offer broad-spectrum protection (against both UVA and UVB rays) and are properly tested to meet the SPF levels indicated on their labels. Failing to do so could lead to sunburn, premature aging, and a significantly higher risk of developing skin cancer over time.

The Dangers of Using Substandard Sunscreens

While the findings from the Which? report are concerning, they also highlight a crucial issue with the sunscreen market: not all sunscreens are created equal. The fact that a high-priced, well-known sunscreen like Ultrasun Family SPF30 failed to meet industry standards is a stark reminder that price and brand reputation are not always reliable indicators of product effectiveness.

The use of substandard sunscreens can lead to serious health risks, especially in regions with high UV exposure, such as during a heatwave. When sunscreen fails to provide adequate protection, the skin is left vulnerable to the harmful effects of UV rays, leading to sunburn, premature aging, and in the worst cases, skin cancer. As Dr. Natalie Hitchins from Which? pointed out, "It’s really concerning that widely available sunscreens could be putting families at risk by failing to offer the level of sun protection claimed on the packaging."

This situation highlights the need for greater transparency and regulation in the sunscreen industry. Consumers deserve to know that the products they are using will provide the protection they expect, especially when it comes to their health and safety.

Signs of skin cancer range from innocuous to obvious, but experts warn that treating cases early is key to making sure they do not spread or further develop

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen: Key Tips for Safe Sun Protection

Given the findings of the Which? report, it’s important for consumers to take extra precautions when choosing sunscreens. Here are some tips to help you choose a reliable sunscreen that will provide the protection you need:

1. Look for Broad-Spectrum Protection: Choose a sunscreen that offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Broad-spectrum sunscreens are essential for protecting the skin from both the short-term effects (sunburn) and long-term damage (premature aging and skin cancer) caused by UV exposure.

2. Check the SPF Rating: Make sure the sunscreen has an SPF of at least 30, as recommended by dermatologists. SPF measures how well the sunscreen protects against UVB rays. An SPF of 30 means it will take you 30 times longer to burn than if you were unprotected. For extended sun exposure, higher SPF ratings (50+) may be more appropriate.

3. Choose Water-Resistant Formulas: If you plan on swimming or sweating, opt for a water-resistant sunscreen. These formulas are designed to stay on the skin for longer, providing continuous protection even when wet.

4. Avoid Expired Sunscreens: Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time, so be sure to check the expiration date before use. Most sunscreens are effective for up to three years, but exposure to extreme heat can shorten their shelf life.

5. Use Enough Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen liberally to all exposed areas of skin, including often-missed spots like the ears, back of the neck, and feet. A general rule of thumb is to apply one ounce (about a shot glass full) for full-body coverage.

6. Reapply Regularly: Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more often if you are swimming or sweating. Many people fail to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, which leads to inadequate protection.

7. Consider Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreens: Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, while mineral sunscreens physically block UV rays. Both types are effective, but mineral sunscreens may be better for sensitive skin and offer immediate protection upon application.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Skin from UV Damage

Sunscreen is an essential part of any sun protection strategy, but the recent Which? report serves as a reminder that not all sunscreens are created equal. While many popular brands promise superior protection, the reality is that some products fail to meet the standards necessary to effectively safeguard your skin.

It’s essential to choose sunscreens that have been properly tested and provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Pay attention to the SPF, opt for water-resistant formulas if needed, and make sure you reapply sunscreen regularly for maximum protection.

As we continue to face record-breaking temperatures and more time spent outdoors in the sun, ensuring that your sunscreen is up to the task of protecting your skin is more important than ever. Stay vigilant, protect yourself from harmful UV radiation, and choose sunscreen products that meet the necessary safety standards to keep your skin healthy and safe.