woman smiling

Does sunscreen expire? How long is it good for?

Sunscreens can expire, but can you use them after expiration? Find out how long sunscreen is good for and when it expires.

What's in this article?

Does sunscreen expire?

Like any skincare product, sunscreen does expire. Most sunscreen products have an expiration date on the packaging, which makes it easy to determine if it's expired. In contrast, others may not, and if you’re not sure when you bought it, it is recommended to purchase a new one. 

How long does sunscreen last?

How long does sunscreen last unopened?

Sunscreens that are stable for 3 years from the point of production are not required to include an expiration date. However, many do include one – so you should refer to this where it is present for correct information. If you do not find an expiration date, it is best to contact the manufacturer for further information. 

How long does sunscreen last once opened?

Sunscreen is effective through the expiration date printed on the packaging. Always make sure to check for the expiration date.  

How to keep your sunscreen in good condition

Here are two ways to store your sunscreen: 

  1. Out of direct sunlight: Make sure it's stored in a dark place to prevent UV rays from damaging it. 

  2. Away from heat: Exposing your sunscreen to heat can cause the formula to separate and become ineffective, so avoid leaving it in the car on hot days. 

Does sunscreen have a use by date on it?

woman with sunscreen on face
A typical bottle of sunscreen will have all the details regarding when it expires or when to use it. A first indicator will be an expiration date likely printed on the back, neck or base of the bottle to show how long your sunscreen lasts unopened. 

Aside from checking the expiration date on the bottle (if one is present), there are other ways you can check if your sunscreen has expired. For example, if you notice a change in consistency such as it’s become more watery or clumpy, then it’s time to replace your sunscreen. If you notice a change in smell or color, it’s advised that you do not use the product and purchase a new one. 

Can you use expired sunscreen?

It’s not advised to use expired sunscreens as the ingredients will have lost effectiveness at protecting you from UV rays. This is because the active ingredients that protect you from the sun begin to decompose and become inactive. As a result, using expired sunscreen means your skin is more vulnerable to adverse effects of the sun's rays than using the same in-date product. 

Wearing sunscreen is a necessity for protecting your skin from the sun. Be sure to check the expiration date on your sunscreen bottle before use and store it in a cool, dark place to prevent it from going off early.

5 Reasons why sunscreen and sun safety are important

Here are 5 reasons why it’s important to wear sunscreen and take sun safety measures:

  1. Sunscreen is effective against harmful UV rays from the sun that can lead to sunburn. 

  2. Wearing sunscreen helps to protect your skin from long-term sun damage, which can cause wrinkles and sunspots 

  3. Applying SPF to the skin reduces the harmful effects of the sun and helps in reducing the risk of skin cancer when used with other sun protection measures 

  4. Frequent exposure to the sun can cause hyperpigmentation. Hence, taking regular sun safety measures can help prevent hyperpigmentation. 

  5. Sunscreen reduces the risk of premature signs of aging appearing when used with other sun protection measures such as limiting time in the sun and wearing protective clothing 
woman smiling with sunscreen on nose

Coppertone Sunscreens

woman applying sunscreen on face

Coppertone has been providing continuous innovation for more than 75 years and is voted the most trusted sunscreen brand in the US*. The full range of Coppertone Sunscreens have been developed and tested by experts for reliably effective protection, while containing additional ingredients that care for your skin. 

Whether you require durable SPF for sport, mineral SPF for sensitive skin, SPF for babies and kids, moisturizing sun protection for the whole family or something for an extra shimmer and glow – Coppertone's range has you covered. 

Browse the range of Coppertone sunscreens to find those suited for your needs. 

*Voted Most Trusted Sunscreen Brand by American Shoppers Based on the 2022 BrandSpark American Trust Study. 

Coppertone Sunscreens

Expired Sunscreens Summary

Check with the manufacturer if you have concerns about your sunscreens expiration date and always read the label for additional storage information. Don’t use expired sunscreens, as they will be less effective at protecting skin from UV rays. Use and apply sunscreen correctly in partnership with other sun protection measures to help keep your skin as protected as possible.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THIS

INTERESTING TIPS FOR YOU