Martin Lewis’ MSE says ‘find number’ every time you use sunscreen

MoneySavingExpert (MSE) has encouraged anyone purchasing sunscreen to flip the bottle over. The consumer website, founded by Martin Lewis, highlighted that this simple trick could help shoppers save money.

Writing on Instagram, the consumer specialists explained the tip could be ideal for anyone stocking up for the hot bank holiday weekend. MoneySavingExpert said: “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 noting the date on the bottle when you open it, so you’ll know when it expires. Alternatively, as one commenter highlighted, you could record the expiry date instead.

The advice could prove especially valuable for the May bank holiday, considering the Met Office‘s forecast that temperatures could reach 33°C this weekend, reports the Mirror. Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster, Steve Kocher, said: “Temperatures will climb through the weekend, especially in the south, where 30°C is likely to be recorded on Saturday and 32°C on Sunday. Temperatures are forecast to peak on Monday when we could see 33°C recorded in southern England and the Midlands.”

People should take care during the heatwave. The NHS recommends seeking shade during the sun’s peak intensity, between 11am and 3pm from March to October across the UK.

The health authority warns: “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 people to wear at least factor 30 sunscreen and reapply 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 guidance says.

Shoppers should look for at least 4-star UVA protection when buying sunscreen, according to the NHS. The letters UVA in a circle indicate that the product meets the EU standard.

The NHS states: “Sunscreen should be applied to all exposed skin, including the face, neck and ears, and head if you have thinning or no hair, but a wide-brimmed hat is better. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied liberally and frequently, and according to the manufacturer’s instructions.”