Question: Can expired sunscreen pose a risk in sun protection?
Sunscreen is an essential tool in protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Here are some key points to keep in mind for safe and effective sunscreen use.
Dermatologist Maral K. Skelsey advises using sunscreen that has passed its expiration date over not using sunscreen at all. However, it's important to ensure your sunscreen is still good to use. If your sunscreen changes colour, becomes lumpy, chunky, watery, or has a yellow cast, or if it smells weird, it may be expired.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires sunscreen makers to ensure their products are effective for 3 years. To ensure your sunscreen remains effective, store it at room temperature, keep it out of direct sunlight, close the cap after each use, keep it away from moisture and extreme temperatures, and don't keep it in your car.
When you're outside in the sun, keep your sunscreen in a shady spot or under a towel. Planning outdoor activities before 10 a.m. or after 2 p.m. can help avoid peak sun intensity.
Sunscreen should be applied at least 15 minutes before going outside and reapplied every 2 hours while outdoors, or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Approximately a shot glass worth (1 ounce) of sunscreen is needed to protect the whole body per day.
For optimal protection, use sunscreen that is broad-spectrum and has an SPF of at least 30. If you find an old bottle without a date on it, observe its colour, consistency, and smell to determine if it's too old.
Wearing sun protective clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating, using a wide-brimmed hat, and wearing ultraviolet protective sunglasses can provide additional sun protection. Protecting lips with an SPF 30 lip product is also important.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends using sunscreens from Neutrogena with specific broad-spectrum coverage and a shelf life ensuring effectiveness for 3 years. If your sunscreen is expired or broken-down, using it may compromise sun protection and put you at risk for sunburn, skin cancer, and photoaging.
Mineral sunscreens with physical sun blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide may be a safer bet if using sunscreen past its expiration date. Seeking shade and using extra caution around snow, sand, and water can help prevent sunburn due to reflected light.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your sunscreen remains effective and helps protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Remember to check the expiration date on your sunscreen and write the date you purchased it on the bottle as a reminder that it's only good for 3 years.
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