LifestyleExpired sunscreen risks: Why last year's bottle won't protect you
Expired sunscreen risks: Why last year's bottle won't protect you
Sunscreen cream is crucial in skincare, shielding the skin from the sun's harmful rays. If you're wondering whether your sunscreen from last year is still good to use.
7:32 PM EDT, May 10, 2024
Everyone desires healthy and smooth skin without wrinkles, achievable through proper skincare. An essential item in every skincare collection is sunscreen.
Sunscreen guards against harmful UV radiation, which can speed up skin aging. Regular application can help prevent new wrinkles and discolorations. It's advisable to use it daily, no matter the season. If you're pondering the effectiveness of last summer's sunscreen, the pharmacist provides a definitive answer.
Is using sunscreen necessary?
Sun radiation is a year-round concern, with its intensity peaking in spring and summer. A mere hour under strong sunlight can cause skin burns, preventable by applying sunscreen about half an hour before venturing outdoors. Depending on the SPF factor, its protection can last from several hours to much longer, making it a must-have in every holiday kit.
Is last year's sunscreen still effective?
The answer is no. An opened sunscreen, he explains, loses most of its protective properties over time, even before its expiry date - the cosmetic's efficiency against the sun's rays diminishes due to these changes.
Temperature fluctuations can alter the product's consistency and chemical composition, rendering it ineffective against sun damage. However, unopened sunscreens purchased off-season (e.g., in September or October) and stored correctly in cool, dry conditions may still be viable for use in the current year.
