How long can I keep my sunscreen?

Your sunscreen is your essential ally for protecting your skin from UV rays, but do you know how long it stays effective after you buy or open it? Here's everything you need to know to keep it working well and continue taking the best care of your skin.

The shelf life of sunscreen

Just like all cosmetic products, sunscreen has an expiration date. This duration is shown on the packaging as a small icon of an open jar, with a number and the letter "M" (for months). For example, if you see "12M", it means your sunscreen is effective for 12 months after opening.

Generally, an unopened sunscreen can be kept for 2 to 3 years. But once opened, it's recommended to use it within 6 to 12 months to ensure optimal protection.

How to tell if your sunscreen is still good?

Even if you follow the recommended usage period, some things can make your sunscreen go bad faster. Here are a few signs that it's no longer effective:

• Change in texture or smell : If your cream becomes lumpy, watery, or has a strange smell, it's time to get rid of it.
• Changed Color: If your cream turns yellow or changes color, it's probably lost its protective properties.
• Bad Storage Conditions: If you leave your sunscreen in a hot place (like by the pool or in the car), its UV filters can break down faster.

What are the risks of using expired sunscreen?

Expired sunscreen might look normal, but it won't protect you effectively from UV rays anymore. This means your skin is at risk of sunburn, premature aging, or even more serious long-term damage. Don't forget that sun protection is a key step to keep your skin healthy and glowing.

Tips to make your sunscreen last longer

1. Store your cream away from heat and light: Keep it in a cool, shaded place, like a drawer or an indoor shelf.
2. Close the tube tightly: Long exposure to air can degrade the UV filters.
3. Avoid sharing it: Repeated contact with different people can contaminate the product.

A little tip to avoid wasting it

If you use the right amount of sunscreen (about a teaspoon for your face and a handful for your body with each application), your tube shouldn't last more than one summer. That way, you're sure to always have fresh and effective sunscreen!