Summertime is all about enjoying the warm sunshine, but it's essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. That's where sunscreen comes in as a vital tool in your sun safety arsenal. However, have you ever wondered if sunscreen expires? And if it does, how do you know when it's time to toss it out?
Let's dive into the topic of sunscreen expiration dates and find out what you need to know to keep your skin well-protected.
Does sunscreen expire?
The short answer is yes, sunscreen does expire. You can find the expiration date imprinted or stamped on the packaging. It's crucial to pay attention to this date as the effectiveness of the product can diminish over time.
How to know when sunscreen expires?
Apart from checking the expiration date on the packaging, there are a few other signs that can indicate whether your sunscreen is still good to use:
- Change in consistency: If the sunscreen becomes clumpy or lumpy, it could be a sign that the formula is beyond its expiration.
- Unpleasant odor: If the sunscreen smells unusual or has a rancid odor, it's best to discard it.
- Discoloration: A change in color or texture, such as becoming yellow or discolored, can indicate that the product has expired.
What to do when sunscreen expires?
Using expired sunscreen might not provide the sun protection you need, which can put your skin at risk of sunburns, premature aging, and even skin cancer. So, here's what you should do when you discover that your sunscreen has expired:
- Dispose of it: Don't hesitate to discard expired sunscreen to avoid using an ineffective product.
- Replace with a fresh sunscreen: Purchase a new bottle of sunscreen to ensure you have a reliable product to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
- Store it properly: To extend the shelf life of your new sunscreen, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to high temperatures or direct sunlight can degrade the product quicker.
Tips for maximizing sunscreen shelf life:
To get the most out of your sunscreen and prevent it from expiring prematurely, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Check the expiration date before purchasing sunscreen and choose a product with a longer shelf life.
- Keep sunscreen tightly closed when not in use to minimize exposure to air and contaminants.
- Avoid storing sunscreen in hot or humid areas, like inside your car or near the oven.
Remember, proper sun safety also requires applying sunscreen generously, reapplying every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
Don't let expired sunscreen be a barrier to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Stay vigilant and maintain a fresh supply of sunscreen to keep your skin healthy and radiant all summer long!
Looking for new sunscreen products to add to your collection or for your upcoming vacation? My Day Screen® offers clean, healthy suncare that moisturizes and protects the skin barrier from UV rays and blue light exposure. Receive 20% off your next purchase by signing up with your email address and phone number on the My Day Screen® website (popup). Also, if you sign up to become a Rewards Member (Rewards widget on website) you can earn points towards free products and discounts! Membership is FREE!