Sunscreen is your skin’s best defense against harmful UV rays. But like all skincare products, it comes with an expiry date. Many people overlook this and continue using old bottles lying around from last summer. The truth is—expired sunscreens don’t protect your skin the way they should. Here’s why.
1. Active Ingredients Break Down
Sunscreens contain UV filters like zinc oxide, avobenzone, or oxybenzone. Over time, these ingredients degrade and lose their ability to absorb or reflect harmful rays. That means your “protection” is no longer reliable.
2. Change in Texture and Effectiveness
Expired sunscreen may separate, become watery, or turn grainy. This uneven texture leads to patchy application, leaving parts of your skin exposed to sun damage.
3. Risk of Irritation
Preservatives in sunscreens also break down after expiry, making the product prone to bacterial or fungal contamination. Using it could lead to redness, rashes, or breakouts.
4. How to Check if Your Sunscreen is Expired
• Look for the expiry date or PAO (Period After Opening) symbol, usually shown as “12M” or “24M.”
• Notice any changes in smell, color, or consistency—these are red flags.
• If the sunscreen is more than three years old (even unopened), it’s best to toss it.
5. Why It Matters
Using expired sunscreen gives a false sense of security. Your skin remains unprotected, increasing your risk of tanning, premature aging, and even skin cancer.
6. The Verdict
Expired sunscreen is as good as no sunscreen at all. Always check the date before applying, and replace old bottles at the start of each summer season.
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✨ Pro Tip: Store your sunscreen in a cool, dry place (not in your car or direct sunlight) to maximize its shelf life.
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