Most people in Britain haven’t bought sunscreen in 2026

According to a recent survey conducted by Cancer Research UK in partnership with NIVEA SUN and Worldpanel by Numerator, fewer than 4 in 10 adults in Great Britain have purchased sunscreen so far in 2026, despite the high levels of ultraviolet radiation (UV) from the sun and sunbeds throughout the hot summer. Ultraviolet radiation is the primary cause of skin cancer, which has become a significant issue in the UK, with more than 20,000 people diagnosed with melanoma in 2022 and projections suggesting the number could exceed 26,000 by 2040.

However, encouragingly, 8.5% more people bought sunscreen this year than in 2025, indicating a higher percentage of 1.6 million people nationwide. Despite this increase, the survey reveals that fewer than 6 in 10 adults purchased any sunscreen in the last two years, highlighting that too few adults are buying and using sunscreen effectively.

Sunscreen expires, leading to the reuse of old tubes and bottles, which can result in inadequate protection. Misconceptions, such as "sunscreen lasts forever," contribute to this issue. Caroline Geraghty, a cancer information nurse at Cancer Research UK, emphasizes that UV radiation, not temperature, causes sun damage. The sun's strength can cause burns from mid-March to mid-October in the UK, regardless of weather conditions.

To reduce the risk of skin cancer, it is crucial to combine sunscreen with other protective measures, such as seeking shade, wearing clothing that covers shoulders, and using a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protection sunglasses. Geraghty also advises checking the UV index on weather apps to plan ahead and determine when extra precautions are necessary.