UK sunscreen purchases remain low despite rising skin cancer concerns

A survey conducted by Worldpanel by Numerator for Nivea Sun reveals that more than 60% of adults in England, Scotland, and Wales have not purchased sunscreen so far this year. While sunscreen sales have increased by 8.5% compared to last year—the highest growth in five years—only 56% of adults in these regions have bought the product in the last two years.

Cancer Research UK has issued warnings regarding these trends, noting that melanoma skin cancer cases in the UK exceeded 20,000 in 2022 and are projected to surpass 26,000 annually by 2040. The charity emphasized that UV radiation, rather than temperature, is the primary cause of sun damage and skin cancer.

Health experts advise that using expired sunscreen can reduce its effectiveness and recommend supplementary protection methods, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and monitoring UV index levels via weather applications.