Overview
- The NHS, which posted on Instagram and updated its website on Monday, June 22, urged people to apply sunscreen twice — 30 minutes before going outside and again just before going out — to ensure effective protection.
- Officials told users to reapply every two hours and always after swimming because water can wash sunscreen off even when a product is labelled 'water resistant'.
- When buying or using sunscreen the NHS recommends a minimum SPF 30 and strong UVA protection, and it warned that expired products or those past their months‑after‑opening (PAO) period will not protect skin.
- The guidance stresses sunscreen should be one part of a layered approach that includes shade, suitable clothing and avoiding peak sun hours to reduce immediate sunburn and long‑term cancer risk.
- This is a routine seasonal reminder packaged for summer to reduce common user errors such as wrong timing, missed reapplication and misreading labels, which could cut sunburn cases and unnecessary spending on ineffective products.