Tesco continues VAT cover on suncare as it reformulates range

Tesco has reformulated its suncare range to be more inclusive, as it continues to cover the VAT for customers buying own-brand Soleil products this spring and summer.

As part of this, the supermarket chain has expanded its collection of suncare products with improved formulations.

Suitable for all skin tones, each product features an invisible finish with broad spectrum 5-star UVA and UVB protection.

Marianne Aitken, Category Director for Beauty & Personal Care at Tesco, said: "Everyone should feel able to wear effective sun protection, which is why we have reformulated the range to be more inclusive, giving an invisible finish on all skin tones."

It comes after a YouGov survey of more than 2,000 participants from Face The Future last year revealed that the UK population is not adhering to SPF guidelines, thus putting their skin health at risk.

The data found that almost half of Brits do not follow medical advice on wearing SPF on a daily basis, with 55% only applying it when it is sunny outside and 40% only buying it when they go on holiday. Around one in seven people never apply SPF.

With many urging the Government to remove VAT from suncream products that have a health benefit, retailers including Tesco and Superdrug have cut VAT from their own-brand SPF products in recent years to make suncare more accessible and affordable for consumers.

Since Tesco first covered VAT on its suncare products in 2021, the supermarket has helped customers save over £2 million, while keeping themselves and their families safe in the sun.

"With people beginning to prepare for holidays abroad and as we move into spring in the UK, it’s important that our customers can stay safe in the sun at home or overseas," Aitken added. 

"Covering the VAT cost on our own-brand Soleil range since 2021 has helped reduce prices for our customers, and this summer we will continue to help consumers stock up on what they need with a great range at affordable prices."