THE WHAT? Superdrug has announced a price reduction on its Solait suncare range by absorbing the 20% VAT, leading to a £1 million saving for consumers. This initiative, aimed at reclassifying suncare products as healthcare essentials, reflects the retailer’s response to the rising pressure on the government to remove VAT on all suncare products.
THE DETAILS Jamie Archer, Superdrug’s Own Brand Director, stated the company’s commitment to making health and wellbeing products more affordable, particularly sunscreen, which is currently classified as a cosmetic product. Superdrug’s efforts are in response to increased demand for suncare products, with some individuals unable to afford them, highlighting the importance of making sun protection more accessible to support customer health and safety.
THE WHY? The price reduction across the Solait range means that families can now afford high-quality sun protection for both adults and children at significantly lower prices, with examples such as Solait Sun Cream SPF50 now costing £3.59. The Solait range is noted for being vegan, cruelty-free, and offering broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, making Superdrug’s initiative a significant step towards promoting both sun safety and ethical consumer choices.
Clinical aesthetics products refer to a category of products used in the field of medical aesthetics or cosmetic dermatology. These products are typically designed and formulated to be used under the supervision of healthcare professionals, such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or trained aestheticians. They are distinct from over-the-counter cosmetics in that they often contain active ingredients or formulations that require expertise in their application or administration.
Examples of clinical aesthetics products include:
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Dermal Fillers: Injectable substances used to add volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Examples include hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane.
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Botulinum Toxin (Botox): Injectables that temporarily paralyze facial muscles to reduce the appearance of wrinkles caused by repetitive movements, such as frown lines and crow's feet.
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Chemical Peels: Solutions applied to the skin to exfoliate and improve its texture. They can treat acne, pigmentation issues, and signs of aging.
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Laser and Light Therapies: Devices that emit focused light or laser energy to treat various skin conditions, including acne, scars, and signs of aging.
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Prescription Skincare Products: Formulations containing active ingredients like retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), hydroquinone, or prescription-strength antioxidants to address specific skin concerns under medical supervision.
