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 [1] and Answers.com [2]
Read More – -> Did you know? [3]
[5]Pool Safely [5]
You May Also Like
- 5 Sunscreen Tips for Water and Active Play [4]
- Pool Safely [5]
- Is Your Family Ready for Fun in the Water this Summer? [6]
- Summer Time: Pools, Sun, Fun, Relaxing and No School! [7]
- Ask the Clinician? How Can I Get My Child with Special Needs Comfortable with the Pool in My Backyard? [8]
- Summer Time: Pools, Sun, Fun, Relaxing and No School! [7]
- Got Pool Games? [9]
- Social Games in Shallow Water [10]
More Outdoor Activities
- Summer Travel & Outdoor Fun with Apps [11]
- 10 Places That Offer Special Days for Special Needs [12]
- Picnic in the Garden: Sensory Play and Sensory Foods for the Outdoors [13]
- 5 Great Opportunities for Outdoor Activity [14]
- It’s Fall: Sneak in a Little Outdoor Fun Together With Your Kids [15]
- Cool Rules: Preventing Heat Stress In Special Needs Children [16]
- 4 Tips for Managing Parties and Social Gatherings this Summer [17]
- Free Access Pass to America the Beautiful [18]
- Top 5 Children’s Museums That Are Fun for Everyone! [19]
- A to Zoo Accessibility at KidZooU Hamilton Family Children’s Zoo & Faris Family Education Center [20]