Learn how to identify when a sunscreen may have lost its properties and discover how to store it correctly to help maintain its effectiveness.

Your sunscreen also has an expiration date

Did you find a sunscreen from last summer and wonder if you can still use it?

It is a very common question. Although these products are designed to remain stable for a certain period, factors such as the expiration date, heat, and how they are stored can influence their condition.

Knowing when a sunscreen may have lost its properties is part of a responsible skincare routine to protect your skin every day.

Do sunscreens expire?

Yes.

Like any cosmetic or dermatological product, sunscreens have a shelf life established by the manufacturer.

This information is usually found:

• On the expiration date printed on the packaging.

• On the open jar symbol (PAO, Period After Opening), which indicates the recommended time for use once opened.

If the product has passed its expiration date, it is best to replace it.

Signs that your sunscreen might be in poor condition

Even if it has not yet expired, there are some visible changes that may indicate that the product is no longer in optimal condition.

1. Color change

If the sunscreen has a different tone than the original, it is better to avoid using it.

2. It has a strange odor

An aroma different from usual or an unpleasant smell may indicate that the product has undergone alterations.

3. Texture change

If you notice that it is too runny, very thick, lumpy, or that the components have separated and do not mix back together when shaking the container, it is advisable to replace it.

4. The packaging is damaged

A broken or leaking container, or one that does not close properly, can promote contamination or alter the stability of the product.

5. It was exposed to extreme temperatures

Leaving the sunscreen inside the car for hours, exposed to direct sun, or near heat sources can affect its stability.

Always follow the storage recommendations provided by the manufacturer.

What happens if I use an expired sunscreen?

Although it is not always possible to identify at a glance if a product has lost some of its performance, using a sunscreen past its shelf life or stored incorrectly may mean that it no longer offers the expected protection.

Therefore, it is recommended to use products within the period indicated by the manufacturer and keep them in the appropriate conditions.

 

How to store your sunscreen correctly?

Some simple precautions can help keep the product in good condition.

Store it in a cool, dry place

Avoid storing it in places where it remains exposed to heat for long periods.

Do not leave it inside the car

On hot days, the temperature inside a vehicle can increase considerably and affect the stability of the product.

Close the container well after each use

This helps protect the formula and prevents contamination of the contents.

Avoid direct sun exposure when not in use

If you are at the beach or the pool, try to keep the sunscreen inside a bag, backpack, or in the shade when you are not using it.

Should I buy a new sunscreen every season?

It depends.

If the product is still within its expiration date, was stored correctly, and shows no changes in odor, color, or texture, it may still be usable.

However, if you have doubts about its condition or the product shows any alteration, it is best to replace it.

When it comes to skincare, it is always better to be safe than sorry.

 

Myths about sunscreen shelf life

 

"If there is still product left, it surely still works."

False. The remaining amount does not guarantee that the product retains its properties if it has expired or was stored improperly.

"Heat does not affect sunscreen."

False. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can alter the stability of some products.

"All sunscreens last forever."

False. Like any other cosmetic product, they have a recommended period of use.

Take care of your sunscreen so it can take care of your skin

Sunscreen is one of the most important products in a daily skincare routine.

Checking its expiration date, storing it correctly, and replacing it when it shows visible changes are simple actions that help maintain adequate protection against UV radiation.

At Fotosun, we believe that good protection begins with reliable information and responsible habits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I check the expiration date of my sunscreen?

It generally appears printed on the container or packaging. You can also find the open jar symbol (PAO), which indicates the recommended time of use once opened.

What does the open jar symbol with a number mean?

It is the PAO (Period After Opening). It indicates how many months the product is recommended to be used after opening it for the first time, provided it is stored according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Can I use sunscreen from last summer?

Only if it is still within its shelf life, was stored correctly, and does not show changes in color, odor, or texture.

What should I do if my sunscreen was inside the car for several hours?

High temperatures can affect the stability of the product. If you also notice changes in its appearance or have doubts about its condition, it is best to replace it.

The best protection starts with a product in good condition

Applying sunscreen every day is an essential habit for caring for your skin, but it is also essential to ensure that the product you use is in good condition.

Before leaving home, take a few seconds to check its expiration date and appearance. It is a small step that can make a big difference in your sun protection routine.

Is it time to renew your sunscreen? Discover the Fotosun line of sunscreens, formulated for Mexican skin, with options for daily use and for enjoying outdoor activities.