Experts Share When to Stop Using Sunscreen
As the weather becomes sunnier across the UK, it’s crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, even if temperatures are still on the cool side. However, before you reach for that bottle of sunscreen tucked away in your bathroom cabinet, experts are reminding people that sunscreen products also come with an expiration date.
Paul Banwell, the founder of The Melanoma and Skin Cancer Unit (MASCU) in East Grinstead, emphasises the importance of checking expiration dates on sunscreen products. He advises that if there is no visible expiration date, it is typically safe to use the sunscreen for up to three years after purchase. However, if the product has changed in smell, texture, or colour, it may have expired and should be discarded.
Expired sunscreen may exhibit a yellow or brown colour, a lumpy texture, and a different smell compared to when it was first purchased. Using expired sunscreen can increase the risk of sunburn, premature ageing, and even skin cancer as the active ingredients degrade over time. Dr Munir Somji, an aesthetics doctor and skin expert, stresses the significance of using fresh, high-quality SPF daily for complete sun protection year-round.
Furthermore, the type of sunscreen formula you use also impacts its longevity. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, while mineral sunscreens form a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. Mineral sunscreens, often preferred for children’s skincare as they are free from harmful chemicals, typically last longer due to their physical sun-ray blocking properties.
It’s important to store sunscreen in a cool, dry place to maintain its effectiveness and prevent contamination. Avoid leaving sunscreen in locations that are exposed to heat, such as car dashboards or bathrooms near heat sources, as these environments can degrade the product. Dr Ed Robinson, a skin and aesthetics expert, advises storing sunscreen upright in a cool, dry cupboard or drawer for optimal preservation.
The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of a sunscreen indicates the level of protection it offers from UVB rays. Kimberley Medd, clinic lead at Face the Future, recommends using at least SPF 30, as it blocks about 97% of UVB rays. Regardless of the SPF level, it’s crucial to reapply sunscreen every two to three hours for continued protection against sun damage.
In conclusion, using sunscreen past its expiration date can compromise its effectiveness in shielding your skin from UV rays. By being mindful of the expiry date and storage conditions, you can ensure that your sunscreen provides the protection your skin needs. So, remember to check those labels and prioritize fresh, high-quality SPF products for healthy and radiant skin all year long.