Sunscreen prices increase by 30% putting low-income families at risk

June 24: The cost of sunscreen has jumped by nearly 30% in the last two years, according to analysis by Round Our Way.

Analysis of Office for National Statistics data shows that the average cost of a factor 15 sunscreen in May 2024 was £7.44. This is a 27% increase on May 2022’s figures when the average cost was £5.84. Consumers are now spending an extra £1.60 on sunscreen than they did two years ago.

The story was featured in iNews.

Inflation is a climate change issue

The rising price of sunscreen is part of a wider picture of higher consumer prices as a consequence of supply chain problems caused by geopolitical instability and climate change.

Roger Harding, Director of Round Our Way, a not-for-profit supporting people impacted by climate change in the UK, said:

“The cost of suncream is just one example of how climate change is beginning to hit Brits in our pockets. We know that heat waves like this week’s can be detrimental to the health of vulnerable people but climate change has a cost of living impact too. 

“Last year drought caused by climate change meant that the Panama Canal had to be closed, which together with the pandemic and war in Ukraine has led to a significant increase in the cost of transportation and materials. Ultimately those costs are handed over to ordinary Brits in the form of higher prices.

“The changing weather used to be just small talk but now we’re seeing climate change’s weather extremes play out in rising prices. Suncream is the latest example, but there are many others, which is why we need politicians to show leadership in tackling the cost of living and its climate causes.”

Sunscreen costs

Average cost of SPF 15 sunscreen in May 2024 – £7.44. This is a 27% increase on May 2022’s figures when the average cost was £5.84. Consumers are now spending an extra £1.60 on sunscreen than they did two years ago. Source: Office for National Statistics