Did You Know? Sunscreen Can Expire?

by Chantai Snellgrove Print This Article

Three bottles of sunscreen with text overlay "Did you KNOW?

Did You Know That Sunscreen Can Expire?

The molecules in suntan lotion (such as homosalate and octyl salicylate) block the penetration of UV radiation by acting as filters and absorbing and reflecting high energy UV. Over time these molecules break down and lose effectiveness, kind of like cold medicine or vitamins that expire. Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen every day, not just during the summer. If you are using sunscreen every day and in the correct amount, a bottle should not last long. If you find a bottle of sunscreen that you have not used for some time, here are some guidelines you can follow:

The FDA requires that all sunscreens retain their original strength for at least three years. Some sunscreens include an expiration date. If the expiration date has passed, throw out the sunscreen. Some have a rule of thumb that states that use sunscreen for only one season. It sounds simple and logical…so it should be easy to remember if thought of that way.

If you buy a sunscreen that does not have an expiration date, write the date you bought the sunscreen on the bottle. That way you’ll know when to throw it out. You also can look for visible signs that the sunscreen may no longer be good. Any obvious changes in the color or consistency of the product mean it’s time to purchase a new bottle.

Sunscreens shown are Consumer Reports.org Best Buy Selections.

Sources: American Academy of Dermatology www.aad.org and Answers.com

Did You Know? Sunscreen Can Expire?

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