Does Sunscreen Expire? Everything You Need to Know!

We get it—sometimes that bottle of sunscreen sits in your beach bag a little longer than planned. But before you slather on last summer’s leftovers, you might be wondering: does sunscreen expire? The short answer? Yes. And using expired sunscreen can leave your skin vulnerable to the sun’s harmful rays.

How Long Does Sunscreen Last?

Most sunscreens have an expiration date printed on the bottle, usually around two years from the date of manufacture. If you cannot find the expiration date on the bottle, a good rule of thumb is to replace it after two years. However, how you store your sunscreen can impact its shelf life. If it’s been sitting in a hot car or baking in the sun, it might lose its effectiveness even sooner.

What Happens If You Use Expired Sunscreen?

Expired sunscreen isn’t just a little less effective—it can be completely unreliable. Over time, the active ingredients break down, meaning you won’t get the protection you expect. That could lead to sunburn, premature aging, and increased risk of skin cancer. Not exactly what you signed up for, right?

How to Tell If Your Sunscreen Has Gone Bad

Even if your sunscreen hasn’t hit the official expiration date, you’ll want to check for these red flags:

• Changes in texture – If it’s become clumpy, watery, or separated, toss it.

• Odd smell – If it smells off or rancid, it’s time for a new bottle.

• Color change – If the color looks different than when you bought it, don’t risk it.

Storing Sunscreen the Right Way

To keep your sunscreen fresh and effective for as long as possible, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you’re out for the day, try keeping it in a shaded bag or wrapped in a towel instead of leaving it in the heat.

The Bottom Line

Yes, sunscreen does expire, and using an old bottle might not give you the protection you need. For the best defense against sun damage, check expiration dates, store sunscreen properly, and replace it when needed. And if you’re looking for a sunscreen that feels light, comfortable, and actually keeps up with your active lifestyle—well, we know a brand you’ll love. Wink.

Stay safe, stay sun-protected, and keep that glow going strong!