There have been recent news on the initiative from the Dutch government to set up free sunscreen dispensers in schools, parks, sports venues and festivals across country this summer.

With the rise in temperatures and summer weather spreading across the UK, it is important to consider these types of initiatives – and what sunscreen means in the context of protection against skin ageing and skin cancer.

Professor Mabs Chowdhury, President of the British Association of Dermatologists said:

“Sunscreen is one of the important tools at our disposal against the preventable risk of skin cancer, which continues to rank first as the most common form of cancer in the UK. It’s very concerning to think that there are people who would be taking sunscreen out of their shopping basket, during this period of economic hardship, in favour of buying other essentials.

“The British Association of Dermatologists supports the calls for removing VAT from sunscreen sold in supermarkets and drugstores. Currently, only high-factor sunscreen on the NHS prescription list for certain conditions is available VAT-free when it is dispensed by a pharmacist. However, removing VAT from all high protection sunscreen really could make a difference in someone’s family budgeting and have a positive impact on their health.”

When it comes to choosing the right sunscreen for you, have a look at our Sunscreen Fact Sheet – it is important to choose a sunscreen that offers good coverage (SPF30+ and 4-5 stars for UVA), but do consider that just sunscreen is not enough when it is very sunny outside. Sticking to the shade when the sun is highest in the sky, and making sure to take a sun hat and sun glasses with you are also important tips to keep in mind.

Dr Bav Shergill, chair of the Skin Cancer Prevention Group, British Association of Dermatologists said:

“The British Association of Dermatologists welcomes initiatives to combat the rise in skin cancer numbers, skin cancer being the most common form of cancer in the UK. Anything that can make sunscreen more affordable and accessible to the public should be considered.   

“Protect your skin by wearing clothing that will shade you from the sun, including a hat, t-shirt and sunglasses, and make sure to spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm when it’s sunny. When it comes to sunscreen, use a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 which also has high UVA protection, and make sure you apply it generously and frequently when in the sun.

“Prolonged sun exposure and the skin damage caused by sunburns both are factors that contribute to the risk of someone developing skin cancer in their lifetime, so it is important to know how to keep yourself safe in the sun.”