People know all the basic sun protection commandments, such as spectrum index and reapplication frequency. Sunscreens generally have an expiration date, but their shelf life is long. If your sunscreen remains inactive there for more than three years, it has lost its power to protect against sunburn and sun damage.
Below, we highlight the reasons why it's essential to respect a sunscreen's expiration date, as well as some tips on how to optimize its use.
Signs of deterioration
Sunscreen that has been exposed to direct sunlight or excessive heat may deteriorate more quickly.
Formulation
Expiration dates may vary according to formulation. For example, physical or mineral sunscreens are more stable than chemical sunscreens and offer longer protection. Physical sunscreens contain ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which will not change their molecular structure when exposed to light, and will keep their ingredients stable longer than chemical sunscreens.
The type
The expiry date of sunscreens can also vary according to the type you choose. A powder sunscreen contains minerals which are more stable and last longer, while liquid formulas are less stable.
What happens when you use expired sunscreen ?
Sunscreen is no longer effective
Sunscreens are non-prescription medicines, but they must comply with specific quality standards. Expiration dates indicate the day after which the sunscreen is no longer effective.
The main disadvantage of using expired sunscreen is that you won't benefit from adequate protection against the sun's harmful rays, and you run the risk of sunburn if you use expired sunscreen.
What's more, sunscreen formulas start to separate, and active ingredients can end up clustering in one area.
Irritating the skin
Some out-of-date sun creams can potentially irritate the skin, making it more vulnerable to sunburn. More seriously, sun damage can lead to skin cancer and premature ageing of the skin.
Ingredients may have broken down into chemicals once their expiry date has passed. Bacteria can grow in the product, leading to infection and forms of skin irritation such as rashes.
If the expiration date has passed or the sunscreen feels and smells normal, you can still use it. You can also test it on an area first to make sure you don't react badly to it. We recommend replacing it with a new sunscreen as soon as possible.
How to tell if your sunscreen has expired
The expiry date
You can look for the expiry date on the container or label of your sunscreen to check whether it has expired or not. If no specific expiry date is indicated, you can assume that it is valid for three years from the date of purchase.
Changes in texture
Changes in colour, consistency, odour and texture indicate that the sunscreen has expired, such as a dull yellow colour and an unpleasant odour.
Even if this happens before the expiry date, it's highly likely that it's no longer safe to use, and it's best to buy a new one.
Original Facial Body Sunscreen SPF 50
How to store sunscreen correctly
Store sunscreen at room temperature
Proper storage of your sun cream will prolong its useful life. We recommend keeping it away from direct light, as sunlight can cause some formulas to break down before their expiry date. To preserve all their qualities, we recommend storing products in a cool, dry, dark place, such as a drawer or cupboard.
Close the cap tightly after each use
For perfect hygiene, clean your sun cream thoroughly and close the cap tightly after each use.
Original 50 Facial Sunscreen Centella Protector
Final Thoughts
Once you've determined that your sunscreen has indeed expired, it's best to throw it in the garbage or recycle it if possible.
Even if your sunscreen has not been opened, it may still expire. The effectiveness of sunscreen deteriorates when exposed to heat, sun and humidity.
To ensure your family's safety and happiness during the playful days of holiday, it's important to choose a safe sunscreen, apply it everywhere and also check that it hasn't expired. Don't forget to read the expiration dates at the start of each summer and throw away anything that's out of date.
If in doubt, buy a new sunscreen for yourself and your family.
