Is last year's sunscreen still effective? Influencer explains
Sunscreen cream is essential for skin care, protecting the skin from the sun's harmful effects. If you're wondering whether your sunscreen from last year is still safe to use, Marcin Korczyk, influencer also known as Pan Tabletka, has a clear answer.
10 May 2024 17:07
Everyone desires healthy, wrinkle-free skin, achievable through proper care. Sunscreen is one of the most essential products to have, helping protect against harmful UV radiation that speeds up the skin's ageing process. Its regular application can prevent new wrinkles and discolourations. It's recommended to use sunscreen daily, no matter the season. If you're unsure about the effectiveness of last year's sunscreen, the pharmacist provides clarity.
Sun radiation is a constant threat throughout the year, particularly during spring and summer. An hour in solid sunlight can lead to burns, but this is preventable. Applying sunscreen about 30 minutes before going outside can shield you for several hours, depending on the SPF factor. The higher the SPF, the longer the protection lasts, making it an essential holiday.
Should you use last year's sunscreen?
We often don't finish a whole sunscreen in one season. Marcin Korczyk, known as Pan Tabletka, is an experienced pharmacist who shares his expertise in pharmacy, dietetics, and medicine.
In a recent post, he discussed the usability of last year's sunscreen. His verdict is that sunscreen loses most of its protective properties once opened, regardless of its expiry date. "Such changes occur that the cosmetic won't properly protect against the sun," he explains.
Temperature variations can alter the cream's consistency and chemical composition, rendering it ineffective against the sun. However, this doesn't necessarily apply to unopened sunscreens bought out of season (e.g., in September or October) and stored in a cool, dry place; these may still be fine to use in the current year.
