SUNSCREEN SECRETS - When to toss your SPF
Posted on September 15 2025
We all know sunscreen is a must-have for protecting our skin, but have you ever wondered if it actually expires? The answer is a resounding yes, it does! Just like food in your pantry, sunscreens—both chemical and physical—lose their effectiveness over time.
According to experts, chemical sunscreens (which contain ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate) can break down in a few ways:
Generally, chemical sunscreens with active ingredients typically last a year or two. Once opened, it's really best to use them within a year, as the filters can break down, especially with heat and UV exposure. Physical sunscreens tend to have a slightly longer shelf life of two to three years unopened because their active ingredients are more stable. However, if you notice the cream or lotion base separating, its performance can be compromised.
So, how long does sunscreen last after opening? Most sunscreens will have an expiration date printed on their packaging. A general rule of thumb is that unopened sunscreen, stored away from high heat, can last up to two years. However, once opened, it's usually best to toss it within 12 months.
Keep in mind that your sunscreen can go bad even before its printed expiration date if it's consistently exposed to heat or a lot of water (think about those beach and pool days!).
Here are some tell-tale signs it's time to replace your sunscreen:
Is it okay to use expired sunscreen? While it's frustrating to replace a pricey bottle you just bought last summer, using expired sunscreen is risky. You might think you're shielded, but ineffective or degraded sunscreens won't block or absorb UV rays properly, increasing your risk of sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Expired ingredients, especially in chemical sunscreens, can also become irritating to your skin.
It might sting your wallet a little to replace that seemingly fine tube of SPF, but believe me, your skin will absolutely thank you for investing in a fresh new one before your next outdoor adventure!
With love,
- Exposure to UV light: This can create free radicals that degrade the active ingredients.
- Exposure to air or heat: This leads to oxidation, another way the formula can break down.
- Hydrolysis: Since many sunscreens contain water, the ingredients can break down in its presence.
- The colour, scent, or texture has changed.
- It no longer applies smoothly, or appears separated, grainy, curdled, or clumpy.
Milene