Does Sunscreen Expire? Here’s What You Should Know
We all use sunscreen – regular sunscreens that help to protect us from harmful UV rays, and are an essential part of our everyday skincare regimen. It is great people ask how long their sunscreens last. Do we really need to replace our sunscreen at all? So, what is it — read on to find out!
Sunscreen Expiration Period Contracts
Sunscreen, like everything else in your skincare routine has a shelf life. For the most part, sunscreen is good for up to three years from the date of manufacture. That being said, this will depend greatly on the individual ingredients in addition to how a product is formulated. Look for a date on the package, which might say that it has expired or carry an "expired by" attribute.
How Will you Know If Your Sunscreen Has Gone Bad
Here's how to know if your sunscreen is still good, provided you're not quite sure.
- Consistency: Sunscreen that has changed texture and appears very thick, clumpy or watery is not any good.
- Changed Tint: If there is a noticeable difference in the color, it can potentially give an indication that the active compounds are degraded.
- If Your Sunscreen Smells Funny: This means it is off or has gone rancid and should likely be tossed.
Storage Tips for Longevity
Maximize Your Sunscreen Shelf-Life & Keep It Working For Even Longer By Storing Correctly
- Keep It Cool — Store your sunscreen in a cool, dry place and not somewhere with direct sunlight or heat. Warmer temperatures cause ingredients to lose integrity more quickly.
- Seal It Well- After every use, Always close the cap tightly. This ensures no contamination and maintains product integrity.
Conclusion
In summary, yes sunscreen does have an expiration date and using old formulations may result in you feeling the burn a little more than usual. Inspect for signs of your sunscreen breaking down, and be sure to follow expiration dates. So, adhering to these practices ensures that your skin isn't plagued by the disadvantages of the sun but is kept healthy and glowing. Which is a great reminder that we can never be too safe when it comes to the sunscreen!
