NHS issues urgent advice on sunscreen as many ‘do it wrong’

As Britain braces for the third summer heatwave this week, the NHS has highlighted five frequent mistakes people commonly make with sunscreen, along with guidance on maximising its protective benefits.

Temperatures nationwide are set to exceed 30C as most regions will be hot and sunny, making it particularly crucial to shield yourself from harmful UV rays by ensuring you always apply sunscreen before venturing outdoors.

The NHS has now issued urgent guidance, revealing that most individuals make five typical errors when using sun cream, while also explaining how to achieve optimal protection.

“Are you applying sunscreen correctly?” they queried in their post’s caption. “Common mistakes could be leaving your skin more exposed than you think.”

They proceeded to outline five frequent sunscreen-related mistakes people regularly commit, and what should be done differently to safeguard against the sun.

1. Applying it at the wrong time

Regarding the first error, the NHS clarified that most individuals apply their sunscreen at the wrong moment, diminishing its effectiveness.

They further explained that sunscreen requires two applications before sun exposure—once 30 minutes prior to going outside and again immediately before heading out. Through this double application method, you’re less likely to overlook areas and more likely to achieve a sufficiently thick layer of protection.

Experts also advise using SPF protection of 30 or higher for UVB defence, alongside a high star rating of 4 or 5 stars for UVA protection.

2. Not reapplying sunscreen after water exposure

Secondly, the guidance emphasised that sunscreen must always be reapplied after emerging from water, whether that’s a swimming pool, the sea, or following a water fight. This is because the sunscreen will have washed away, even if the product claims to be water-resistant.

The cooling sensation of water can also create a false impression that you’re not getting burnt. Water additionally reflects ultraviolet (UV) rays, heightening your exposure.

Nevertheless, they still advise opting for water-resistant sunscreen if you intend to spend time in water, as it adheres better than standard sunscreen when wet, though it should still be reapplied after towel drying, perspiring or when it may have worn off.

3. Not reapplying sunscreen regularly

For their third recommendation, the NHS stated: “You should reapply [sunscreen] every two hours – sooner if you have been in water.”

According to their website, they continued to clarify that sunscreen requires liberal and frequent reapplication, following the manufacturer’s instructions. This includes applying it immediately after being in water, even if it’s “water resistant”, and after towel drying, perspiring or when it may have worn away.

“It’s also recommended to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, as the sun can dry it off your skin,” they explained on their website.

4. Using out of date sunscreen

While it is easy to overlook the expiry dates of beauty products and toiletries, particularly if you only use them a handful of times each year, the NHS warned against applying out of date sunscreen.

“Expired sunscreen won’t provide effective protection from the sun,” they explained in their Instagram post.

If you are uncertain whether your sunscreen remains safe to use, look for a symbol featuring an open lid, the letter M and a number. This indicates how many months the sunscreen will remain effective once opened.

5. Relying only on sunscreen to protect you against the sun

Finally, the NHS also urged people to wear suitable clothing and to seek shade when the sun is at its most intense. In the UK, this is typically between 11am and 3pm, though this can vary.

During these hours, it is advisable to spend as much time as possible in the shade, steering clear of direct exposure to sunlight. Loose-fitting yet covering garments are also recommended, such as long-sleeved tops and trousers or long skirts made from tightly woven fabrics that prevent sunlight from penetrating.

It is further advised to shield your head with a wide-brimmed hat that shades the face, neck and ears, along with sunglasses to safeguard your eyes.