Is it risky to apply outdated sunscreen?
Rewritten Article:
Get ready for some sun-soaked fun, but first, check your sunscreen – it might be past its prime! An old bottle could leave your skin unprotected, and nobody wants a burnt campsite.
So, how old is too old? Dermatologists suggest that sunscreen is effective for about three years from its manufacturing date, provided it’s stored correctly. Found a bottle lurking in the back of your cabinet from last summer? Give it a once-over.
Look for the expiration date. If it's long gone, better safe than sorry – toss it. No date on the label? Worry not! Dermatologist Elizabeth Martin advises checking for changes in color or consistency as possible signs that your sunscreen is no longer fit for use. Keep an eye out for lumpy, chunky, watery, or yellow-tinted sunscreen, as well as any weird smells.
To prevent this hassle, consider writing the date of purchase on your sunscreen bottle so you know it's been three years tops before you reach for it again.
Here are some pro tips to keep your sunscreen in tip-top shape until its expiration date:
- Store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight.
- Keep that cap snapped shut after each use.
- Steer clear of moisture and extreme temperatures, and never leave it in your car.
- When basking in the sun, keep your sunscreen out of the heat in a shady spot or wrapped up in a towel.
But what if your sunscreen has passed its expiration date? Well, it's better than nothing, but it might increase your chances of sun damage. Don't panic – it may still offer some protection, but its effectiveness becomes uncertain. That's why experts recommend using fresh sunscreen for the best results.
So, what does fresh, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 do for you?
- Apply about a shot glass' worth to cover your entire body daily. Yep, your giant bottle might run dry in less than three years.
- Use it 15 minutes before venturing outdoors.
- Don't forget to reapply every two hours, more often if you're sweating or swimming.
- Choose a water-resistant formula for longer-lasting sun protection.
- Protect your lips with an SPF 30 lip product.
Related tips for sun safety:
- Slide into some sun protective clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating for added protection.
- Cover up with a wide-brimmed, tightly woven hat.
- Embrace ultraviolet protective sunglasses.
- Schedule outdoor activities before 10 a.m. or after 2 p.m. to dodge peak sunlight.
- Seek the shade whenever possible and watch out for reflected rays when hanging around snow, sand, or water.
In summary, while expired sunscreen might provide some protection, it could also up your chances of sun damage. Regularly check your sunscreen for expiration signs like changes in color, smell, and consistency. Proper storage can help your sunscreen last longer, ensuring maximum protection against UV rays. Use a fresh layer of broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and you'll be laughing in the sun without having to worry about passing that expiration date.
- Dermatologists advise checking for changes in color or consistency as possible signs that your expired sunscreen might not be fit for use anymore.
- To prevent the hassle of using an expired sunscreen, consider writing the date of purchase on your sunscreen bottle so you know it's been three years tops before you use it again.
- Even if your sunscreen has passed its expiration date, it's better than nothing, but its effectiveness becomes uncertain, thus expert recommendations emphasize using fresh sunscreen for the best results.
