Sunscreens are often not used up in one season and are kept for the next year. But do they still protect against UV rays? How can I tell if sunscreen is still good? Are there differences between sunscreens?

Important questions about expired sunscreen

The dermatologist Dr. Tamara Kopp from the JUVENIS beauty center in Vienna provides information in a Interview with the magazine Woman about sunscreen.

Shelf life of sunscreen

When purchasing sunscreen, pay attention to the symbol on the cream container. It applies from the moment the container is opened.

Effectiveness of expired sunscreen

Storage is important: sunscreen should be kept cool and dark and exposed to as little air as possible, since air can more or less reduce its effectiveness. That doesn't mean that if the sunscreen has already been opened for 12 months, and the manufacturer states it is only usable for 12 months, the sun protection is completely gone. The manufacturer no longer guarantees protection, because the level of sun protection can vary from case to case (depending on storage!).

How to tell if sunscreen has gone bad

An important indicator that sunscreen has spoiled is a change in the color, smell, and consistency of the cream. Even if sand is stuck to the opening of the bottle, there is a risk that bacteria or germs are in the cream, and it should preferably no longer be used.

Buying sunscreen correctly

Sun protection products are distinguished between mineral-based and chemical-based products. Mineral-based sun care products have a very long shelf life and do not change their sun protection factor (SPF). For chemical-based products, there is a degradation process, but there are no specific values or studies for this, as storage and handling are relevant.

Tipp: In case of doubt, discard the tube and buy a smaller tube for the next season, or share it with others.

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