According to safety experts at Which?, big brand and expensive sunscreens may not deliver the promised protection against skin damage. In their tests, Which? found that several cheaper supermarket alternatives actually offered strong protection. For instance, Avon’s Refreshing 3-in-1 Face and Body Sun Lotion SPF30 failed to meet its claimed SPF30 protection. These findings are concerning because people rely on sunscreen labels to determine how long they can safely stay in the sun during heatwaves.
Leading dermatologists, including Professor Mabs Chowdhury, president of the British Association of Dermatologists, are advocating for free sunscreen to ensure that deprived families have access to adequate sun protection. A survey by Melanoma Focus revealed that 50% of respondents believed sunscreen was too expensive, leading to a significant number of people not using it due to cost. Julian Peace, deputy chair at the Primary Care Dermatology Society, suggested implementing a voucher scheme similar to the one for vitamin D supplements to allocate sunscreen to those most in need, with a focus on providing sunscreen to children.
Which? advises consumers to avoid sunscreens that fail to meet their SPF claims, as they do not offer sufficient protection and can put individuals at risk. However, they also highlight that good sun protection doesn’t have to be expensive. Asda’s sunscreens, for example, received positive reviews and were praised for their low prices. Asda’s Protect Moisturising Sun Lotion SPF30 priced at £3 for 200ml was absorbed easily, non-greasy, and didn’t leave white marks on the skin. Asda’s Protect Refreshing Clear Sun Spray, though slightly more expensive at £4 for 200ml, was easy to apply and didn’t leave any visible residue while providing the necessary SPF and UVA protection in laboratory tests.
Boots also earned recognition for its affordable sunscreens. Their Soltan Protect & Moisturise Lotion SPF30, priced at £4 for 200ml, delivered the required protection. In the children’s category, Asda’s Kids Sun Lotion Spray ranked first with an SPF of 50+ and priced at £3.60 for 200ml. Boots’ Soltan Kids Protect & Moisturise Lotion, priced at £4 for 200ml, was also a great value option. Natalie Hitchens, Head of Home Products and Services at Which?, encourages consumers to choose tried and tested sunscreens, emphasizing that a higher price does not necessarily guarantee a better or safer product.
Upon learning of Which?’s findings, Avon stated that it stands behind its product but promised to conduct an investigation. They prioritize the safety of their customers and employ expert skincare teams to develop effective sun care formulas. Avon engaged its quality and research and development teams to investigate the specific batch of product that was tested by Which?.
In summary, the analysis conducted by Which? revealed that some big brand sunscreens fail to provide the claimed protection against skin damage. Cheaper alternatives, like those found in supermarkets, offer effective protection at lower prices. Dermatologists advocate for free sunscreen to ensure access for everyone. Consumers should prioritize sunscreens that meet their SPF claims. Asda and Boots offer affordable and highly effective sunscreens, proving that excellent sun protection doesn’t have to break the bank. Avon is investigating the findings brought forth by Which? and asserts its commitment to customer safety.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
