The new sun season is just around the corner, and it's high time to replenish your sunscreen supplies. This often raises the question: Does sunscreen actually expire, and can you still safely use last summer's opened tube? In this article, we'll clarify everything important about sunscreen's shelf life.
Contents:
- Does sunscreen have an expiry date?
- What happens if I use expired sunscreen?
- How do I know if my sunscreen is still good?
- Tips for proper sunscreen storage
- Summary
Does sunscreen have an expiry date?
Yes, sunscreens can also expire! Every tube or bottle has either an explicit expiry date printed on it or a symbol with an open jar and a number (e.g., 6M or 12M). This symbol indicates how many months the cream can be used after opening. Sunscreens, for example, often have a 6M label on the tube and should therefore only be used within one season.
What happens if I use expired sunscreen?
The effectiveness of sunscreen is based on chemical or physical UV filters. These filters can degrade over time and lose effectiveness. As a result, the stated Sun Protection Factor (SPF) can no longer be guaranteed. The lack of protection increases the risk of sunburn, skin aging, and long-term damage such as skin cancer. In addition, components of the cream can separate or oxidize, which can affect consistency, odor, and skin tolerability.
How do I know if my sunscreen is still good?
If you are unsure whether you can still use your sunscreen, look for the following signs:
- Expiry date: If the sunscreen has passed its expiry date or has been open longer than indicated by the jar symbol, full protection is not guaranteed.
- Smell: If the cream smells unpleasant or different from usual, it is likely spoiled.
- Consistency: Has the cream separated, become lumpy, or too liquid? This is a clear sign that it no longer has full effectiveness.
- Color: Even if the color of the cream has changed, you should no longer use the sunscreen.
Tips for proper sunscreen storage
- Protect from heat: Store the cream in a cool, dry place. High temperatures, such as those that can occur in a heated car, accelerate the degradation of the ingredients.
- Seal tightly: Make sure to close the tube or bottle tightly after each use to minimize the entry of air and foreign particles.
- Do not share: Avoid sharing the cream with others to prevent contamination.
Summary
Opened sunscreens from last year can still be used, provided their period of use has not been exceeded, they have been stored correctly, and their smell, consistency, or color have not changed.
Unopened sunscreens from the previous year are also usable, provided the period of use is still valid, storage conditions have been met, and there are no changes in smell, consistency, or color.
O U R E X P E R T
Dr. med Michaela Hagemann I boep founder, doctor & mother of three
