Reusing Sunscreen: Is It Safe or a Sunburn Just Waiting to Happen?
As the weather warms up and sunny days return, many of us find ourselves digging through our cabinets only to discover half-used bottles of sunscreen from the previous summer. The temptation to reuse these products is strong—after all, why waste them? But is it truly safe to do so? Recent research by the consumer advocacy group UFC-Que Choisir offers some reassuring insights, while highlighting important precautions to consider before slathering old sunscreen on your skin this season.
The organization tested eight highly-rated sunscreens from previous evaluations, putting them through rigorous conditions that mimic real-world usage. These included variations in temperature, exposure to UV rays, and long-term storage. The findings? Six out of the eight products retained their effectiveness even after 14 months, suggesting that under certain circumstances, reusing sunscreen could be acceptable.
What to Watch Out for Before Reapplying Old Sunscreen
Before you decide to reuse sunscreen, it’s crucial to inspect the product carefully. A bad smell or a change in texture indicates that the sunscreen may no longer be effective and could even cause skin irritation. These signs often point to the breakdown or degradation of active ingredients, which diminishes the product’s ability to protect you from UV rays. Using compromised sunscreen might give you a false sense of security and could result in sunburn.
To help ensure your protection, mark the date you first open each bottle. Most sunscreens have a recommended period of use after opening, known as the Period After Opening (PAO), which is usually 12 months. However, even within this window, improper storage—such as exposure to excessive heat or humidity—can affect the product’s stability and safety. Always check for changes before reuse, and keep stored products in a cool, dry place.
Important Exceptions to Keep in Mind
Some sunscreens contain a specific UV filter called octocrylene. Over time, this chemical can break down into benzophenone, a compound that may be potentially toxic. The UFC-Que Choisir advises against reusing sunscreens containing octocrylene for the following season—even if the product appears unchanged. The risk here is that the active ingredients could have degraded, reducing the level of protection and possibly posing health concerns.
Additionally, organic sunscreens that use mineral filters like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide were not included in the recent study. Their stability and effectiveness over time may differ from chemical-based formulas. Out of an abundance of caution, it’s best not to reuse these mineral-based products unless you’re certain of their condition.
In summary, reusing your sunscreen for the following summer can generally be considered safe provided it is still in good condition and stored properly. However, specific ingredients such as octocrylene demand extra caution, and when in doubt, replacing your sunscreen with a fresh product is the best way to ensure optimal protection against UV radiation and avoid unnecessary risks.
