Before you reach for an expired sunscreen, it’s important to understand why these products have an expiration date. Sunscreens contain active ingredients that absorb or reflect UV rays to protect the skin. Over time, these ingredients can degrade and lose their effectiveness.integrityintegrity of the product may also be affected by environmental factors such as heatheat and the lightlightthus impairing its ability to provide adequate protection. Ignoring these aspects could not only reduce the effectiveness of the product, but also expose the skin to unnecessary risks.
The effectiveness of expired sunscreens
The expiration date on sunscreens is not there by chance. After this date, the active ingredients may lose their effectiveness, making sun protection less reliable. UV filters, whether chemical or physical, degrade over time, especially if exposed to improper storage conditions such as heat or direct sunlight. Using an expired sunscreen may result in insufficient protection against UV rays, increasing the chances of sunburn and long-term damage such as premature skin aging and skin cancer.
Signs of Expired Sunscreen
It is crucial to know how to spot a sunscreen that has passed its expiration date. Among the visible signs, we can observe a separationseparation components, a texturetexture grainy, unpleasant odor, or discoloration. These indications suggest that the formula has been compromised and the sunscreen will not provide the necessary protection. Even in the absence of these signs, it is still best not to use a sunscreen after its expiration date.
What to do with expired sunscreen?
Rather than risk insufficient protection, it is recommended to replace any expired sunscreen with a new product. If you are unsure about the expiration date or if the label is illegible, it is safer to get a new sunscreen. In addition, to avoid ending up with expired products, it is a good idea to note the opening date of each product and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for storage. durationduration use after opening, usually indicated by a small open jar symbol followed by a number of months (for example, “12M” for 12 months).
