NHS' suncream warning as wearing last year's SPF creams could leave you at risk (2025)

As the sunny weather persists, the NHS has given the UK public their recommendations for how best to avoid health risks and skin damage when spending days out in the sun

Spring has arrived well and truly. With it comes sunny, warm weather that's seeing families and groups of friends rush to the beach this Easter break. But while the sun may be shining, it's time for us all to remember a key part of spending days outdoors—wearing suncream.

But the real question is whether or not it's safe to use SPF that's been sitting in the cupboard since the last heatwave.

The NHS has released a statement regarding the best factors to look for and the preventative measures to take to prevent UV damage. Whether heading out on a sunny hike this Easter break or taking the family to the coast, here are the important things to note about wearing suncream while you and your loved ones are out and about.

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When it comes to protecting your kids against sun damage and burns, it's worth noting there are plenty of affordable and effective sunscreens that are set to protect your kid's vulnerable skin.

Brand ambassador for the brand Childs Farm answers parents questions as to how long is too long before ditching last summer's bottle of SPF: “If you use a product past its expiry date, the ingredients may no longer be efficacious, and the product could be contaminated with organisms. The other important date to look out for on your suncare product is the ‘Period After Opening’ date, which is often represented by an open jar symbol. This is often 6 or 12 months, and after this period, the product will be potentially ‘inactive’, putting you and your child at risk of sunburn."

The Childs Farm Kids Sun Lotion Roll-On SPF 50 is a top choice for providing very high and instant protection with a formula that features additional water to ensure your children are not only protected but that their skin is also kept hydrated as they go about their sun-soaked activities. Plus, the handy roll-on design makes it easier to apply, even for those kids who try to wriggle away from the dreaded sunscreen.

The NHS released a information on the importance of sunscreen and the steps beach-goers need to take to prevent their skin from sun damage. Saying "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." The NHS' notes that "there's no safe or healthy way to get a tan. A tan does not protect your skin from the sun's harmful effects."

The NHS recommend the following tips to avoid UV damage and prevent the risk of skin cancer from sun damage, saying: "Spend time in the shade when the sun is strongest. In the UK, this is between 11am and 3pm from March to October. 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."

Regarding suncream, the NHS suggests: "When buying sunscreen, the label should have a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to protect against UVB and at least 4-star UVA protection. UVA protection can also be indicated by the letters "UVA" in a circle, which indicates that it meets the EU standard. Make sure the sunscreen is not past its expiry date." This means not grabbing last year's bottle at the back of the cupboard before you head out for a day in the sun.

This Cosrx sunscreen ticks all the boxes, as it boasts UVA protection. The factor 50 SPF retails for £16 and ensures a quick-absorbing and lightweight formula that provides hydration and soothing comfort throughout the day while ensuring your skin's safety from the sun.

This sun cream is enriched with Witch Hazel and Aloe to soothe sun-exposed skin and help prevent signs of ageing at the same time. With a non-oily finish, this SPF can be worn alone or makes an excellent makeup base, perfect for daily use.

For alternative sunscreens, check out Amazon's offer of this La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 for £16, or take a peek at this £10.25 ALTRUIST Dermatologist Sunscreen SPF 50.

If you're looking for a household name you know and trust with protecting your own and your loved one's skin in the sun, you can pick up for £12 from Superdrug.