With summer approaching and the sun shining brightly, reaching for sunscreen has become second nature to most of us. Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is essential—no one enjoys the painful aftermath of sunburn. However, not every sunscreen offers the level of protection promised on its packaging.
Questionable Protection Despite High SPF Labels
Every year, the Dutch Consumer Association (Consumentenbond) examines dozens of sunscreens, split into categories like SPF 30 and SPF 50. This year, they focused on whether the actual protective effect matches what's printed on the bottle. The results for body sunscreens were surprisingly satisfactory—none failed the test. The shock came from face sunscreens: three well-known brands scored poorly, offering a measured SPF far below what was claimed.
Three Face Sunscreens to Avoid
Here are the three face sunscreens that the Consumer Association strongly advises against using:
- Biotherm Waterlover Face Sunscreen SPF 50: Promises SPF 50, but actually provides only SPF 30. Test score: 2.2.
- Nivea Sun UV Face Sensitive SPF 50: Also claims SPF 50, but actually delivers SPF 30. Test score: 2.3.
- Rituals Invisible Sun Protection Face Cream SPF 50+: Again, only SPF 30 instead of the promised 50+. Test score: 2.2.
Consumer Association's Urgent Warning
The Consumer Association advises consumers to be extra cautious if you have any of these products at home. There's a good chance you are less protected than you think. This is particularly important when outdoors for long periods or in strong sunlight, as you are at higher risk of burning.
The association says, "Check your skin regularly and apply sunscreen more often than you're used to. You can burn faster than you expect." Inadequate SPF for your face can also be extra harmful over the long term. Since facial skin is thinner and more sensitive, proper protection is even more important.
High Sunscreen Costs Remain, But There Are Ways to Save
Aside from these warnings, the price of sunscreen continues to be a hot topic. In the Netherlands, sunscreen can be quite pricey, but there are tricks to save money. The Consumer Association recommends shopping carefully. Almost every pharmacy or supermarket offers summer promotions on sunscreen, which can save you several euros per bottle.
Do you live near the German border? It's often cheaper to stock up in Germany, where sunscreen prices are much lower. A quick trip over the border can make a big difference to your wallet.
Want to Know Which Sunscreens Scored Well?
Curious which sunscreens performed well in tests? Or which other products to avoid? You can find the comprehensive test results and details on the official Consumer Association website.
Prepare well for summer: choose your sunscreen wisely, use it generously, and don't be fooled by attractive packaging or empty promises. Your skin deserves the best protection—especially with tropical temperatures on the way.
Source: https://faqts.net/opgelet-deze-zonnebrandcremes-worden-afgeraden-door-consumentenbond/