Many people use sunscreen as a means of protecting their skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Sunscreen has been proven effective in protecting the skin but certain questions still linger around sunscreen use.

One of such questions is whether sunscreen can expire or not. There is a common belief that if you use expired sunscreen, it may not provide the same protection that fresh sunscreen might. But, is this statement really true? Can sunscreen really expire?.

What Does Sunscreen Expiration Date Mean?

Sunscreen expiration date is the date when the manufacturer of the sunscreen expects that it should work effectively.

On most sunscreen bottles, you will find at the back or bottom of the bottle a small symbol of an open jar with an expiry date next to it. This symbol is called the Period After Opening (PAO) symbol, and it tells you how long the product will last after you’ve opened it. For most sunscreens, an unopened bottle can last up to 3 years from the date of manufacture.

However, once you have opened the sunscreen, you should use it within 12 – 24 months.

What Causes Sunscreen To Expire?

There are several factors that can cause sunscreen to expire. One of the most important factors is exposure to air, which can cause the active ingredients in the sunscreen to oxidize or break down over time.

Exposure to heat or sunlight can also break down the active ingredients in the sunscreen, making it less effective. Additionally, bacteria can grow in the sunscreen over time, especially if you use your fingers or other unsanitized tools to scoop the sunscreen out of the bottle.

What Happens When You Use Expired Sunscreen?

Using expired sunscreen is a cause for concern, as it may not provide the same level of protection that it should. The active ingredients in sunscreen may not work effectively, leading to increased skin damage, burning, and premature aging.

Additionally, expired sunscreen could harbor harmful bacteria that could cause skin infections and other serious health problems.

How Can You Tell If Your Sunscreen Has Expired?

If you are unsure whether your sunscreen has expired or not, inspect it carefully before using it. Here are some signs that your sunscreen may have expired:.

The texture or consistency of the sunscreen has changed.
The color of the sunscreen has changed or faded.
The sunscreen has a strange or unusual odor.
The sunscreen has separated or appears to have lumps in it.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to replace the sunscreen with a new one.

How Can You Store Your Sunscreen To Keep It From Expiring?

If you want to extend the life of your sunscreen, it’s important to store it properly. Here are some tips to help you ensure that your sunscreen stays fresh for as long as possible:.

Store your sunscreen in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Don’t keep your sunscreen in your car or other places where it may be exposed to heat or direct sunlight.
Try not to leave your sunscreen open or unscrewed for too long.
Do not share your sunscreen with others to prevent the transfer of bacteria.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sunscreen can indeed expire. It is important to check for signs of expiry before using it, and if it has gone bad, replace it with a new one.

Expired sunscreen may not provide the same level of protection as fresh ones and could harbor harmful bacteria that can cause serious health problems.