Cancer charities are calling for sunscreens to be VAT exempt. Here’s why that matters

One of the most pivotal parts of any skincare routine is the application of sunscreen. This barrier against the sun’s harmful rays not only prevents premature ageing, but it protects you from skin cancers such as melanoma. It’s by far the best gift you can give your skin. So why then, can sunscreens be so expensive?

Cancer charities have been asking the same questions, which is why several British charities this week have called for value added tax – or VAT – to be removed from sunscreen products to make them more affordable.

At present, sunscreen is classified as a “cosmetic” product which means that it carries an added tax of around 20%, an average of an extra £1.50 per bottle. Charities are calling for VAT to be removed from high SPF sunscreens, citing the cost of living crisis.

“Skin cancers are caused by the damaging effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Sunscreen plays a key role in preventing skin cancer and cancer charities (as well as dermatologists!) argue that it should be reclassified as an essential healthcare item and be exempt from value added tax (VAT),” Dr Jason Thomas, head of medical at Skin + Me says.

“This is not the first time people have been campaigning for the removal of VAT for sunscreens – it was actually debated in the UK parliament in August 2021 after a petition – but with households dealing with spiralling costs and having to make difficult spending decisions, it’s more important now than ever that we make sunscreen accessible and affordable.”

Due to the ongoing cost of living crisis, Thomas says many families in the UK are unable to afford sunscreen and some parents can only afford to give it to their children and not use it themselves.

“The concept of sun poverty is sadly real and potentially dangerous,” Thomas adds. “Skin cancer rates are increasing in the UK and melanoma, the deadliest skin cancer, has seen rates double since the 1990s and it’s now currently responsible for the death of over 16,000 people each year in the UK. It’s important to understand that 86% of melanoma cases are completely preventable and that prevention involves protecting your skin from the sun – and sunscreen is a key part of this prevention strategy.”

Why is it so important to wear sunscreen?

Two words: skin cancer. It is vital to wear sunscreen as it protects your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays and two types of UV radiation: UVA and UVB.

“UVB is the main cause of sunburns and skin cancers while UVA can prematurely age your skin, causing wrinkles and age spots but it also can damage DNA and contribute to skin cancer,” Thomas explains. “Sunscreens work by absorbing, reflecting, or scattering the UV rays, which decreases your risk of sunburn and helps prevent skin damage and skin cancer. It’s important to note that sunscreen only works if you use one that’s broad spectrum and if it’s applied correctly.”

Thomas recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and is a broad spectrum, which means it protects against both UVB and UVA.