MoneySavingExpert (MSE) has advised anyone purchasing sunscreen to check the reverse of the bottle. The consumer website, established by Martin Lewis, highlighted that this simple tip could help shoppers save cash.
In an Instagram post, the money-saving experts revealed 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 guidance could prove invaluable for the May bank holiday, considering the Met Office’s prediction of temperatures reaching 33°C this weekend,
Families are urged to enjoy the sunshine responsibly 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.”
View 2 ImagesFamilies are enjoying the sunshine over the bank holiday weekend (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
The NHS says 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 continues.
Shoppers should look for at least four-star UVA protection when buying sunscreen, the NHS says. The letters UVA in a circle indicate that the product meets the EU standard.
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The NHS adds: “Make sure the sunscreen is not past its expiry date. This is marked by a symbol of an open jar, an M and a number, which shows how many months the sunscreen will last once it’s been opened.”