Ensuring your sunscreen is effective is crucial for optimal sun protection. While the FDA mandates a three-year stability for commercial sunscreens, understanding how to determine if your SPF is still potent can be challenging. This guide will walk you through decoding expiration dates, understanding production codes, and recognizing signs of degradation.
FDA-approved sunscreens typically display expiration dates directly on their packaging. However, the production date is often coded. Look for an alphanumeric sequence, usually at the top or bottom of the container. The first two digits indicate the year of manufacture, followed by three digits representing the day of the year.
Expiration dates are generally marked with "EXP" followed by the month and year. Both production and expiration details are also found on spray sunscreens, usually at the bottle's base.
Sunscreens from other countries, increasingly popular due to online shopping, adhere to their respective regulatory agencies' standards. For instance, the European Commission has its own set of guidelines, while regulations vary across Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas, classifying sunscreens as either cosmetics or over-the-counter drugs.
Beyond checking labels, the FDA emphasizes the importance of proper storage. Avoid exposing sunscreen to direct sunlight; wrap the container in a towel, keep it in the shade, or use a cooler when outdoors for extended periods.
High temperatures, even indoors, can compromise sunscreen effectiveness. Dr. Anna Guanche, founder of Bella Skin Institute, cautions that heat can weaken a sunscreen's UV-blocking ability. If your sunscreen has been exposed to excessive heat, replacing it is recommended.
Regardless of whether it's for face or body, expired sunscreen is ineffective. Lotions and sprays follow the same principle: check the expiration date. Changes in color or texture, even before the expiration date, also warrant replacement.
Before using last year's sunscreen, check for any product recalls. In 2022, Banana Boat recalled specific batches of its Hair & Scalp Sunscreen Spray due to trace amounts of benzene, a potential carcinogen. Similarly, in 2021, Johnson & Johnson recalled certain Neutrogena and Aveeno aerosol sunscreens for potential benzene contamination.
By understanding expiration dates, production codes, proper storage practices, and staying informed about recalls, you can ensure your sunscreen provides the protection you need.
