Martin Lewis’ MSE urges people to ‘look at back of sunscreen bottles’

MoneySavingExpert (MSE) has urged anyone buying sunscreen to check the reverse of the bottle. The consumer website, founded by Martin Lewis, shared how this straightforward tip could help shoppers save money.

In a previous Instagram post, the consumer experts suggested a tip for Brits. MoneySavingExpert explained: “If you turn your sunscreen around, on the back you should find the ‘period after opening’ (PAO) number. This number tells you how many months it should still protect you after you first use it, usually 12 or 24 months.

“This way, if you have some left over next year, or even the year after, you’ll know if it’ll still work (and maybe you’ll save some cash)! And if you’ve got some you know is past its prime, don’t chuck it out – it can be used as a body lotion!”

MoneySavingExpert suggested writing the date on the bottle when you open it, so you’ll know when it runs out. As a commenter pointed out, you could also write down the expiry date.

The tip could be especially helpful this week. A red Extreme Heat warning is currently in place for Wednesday and Thursday, according to the Met Office, and highs of 37C are forecast for southern England.

The NHS says sunscreen is vital for summer. The health experts explained: “Sunburn increases your risk of skin cancer. Sunburn does not just happen on holiday. You can burn in the UK, even when it’s cloudy. There’s no safe or healthy way to get a tan. A tan does not protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects.”

The NHS recommends seeking shade when the sun is at its most intense. This is mainly between 11am and 3pm from March to October across the UK.

The health authority adds: “Sunburn increases your risk of skin cancer. Sunburn does not just happen on holiday. You can burn in the UK, even when it’s cloudy.

“There’s no safe or healthy way to get a tan. A tan does not protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects. Aim to strike a balance between protecting yourself from the sun and getting enough vitamin D from sunlight.”

The NHS advises using at least factor 30 sunscreen and reapplying it frequently. You can also cover up with suitable clothing and sunglasses. “Do not rely on sunscreen alone to protect yourself from the sun. Wear suitable clothing and spend time in the shade when the sun’s at its hottest,” the NHS adds.

Sunscreen should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Always check the instructions on the bottle.