Attention: Is your sunscreen from last year still safe?

Attention: Is your sunscreen from last year still safe?

European consumer protection organizations, including the Association for Consumer Information (VKI), conducted a long-term test on sunscreen products in spring 2024. The aim of the test was to clarify whether opened sunscreen from last summer should still be used or whether it should be better disposed of. According to vol.at, two of eight tested preparations could no longer meet the advertised sun protection factor (SPF).

Experts warn that frequent heating and opening of products can accelerate aging and thus impair UV protection. It is also important to pay attention to the PAO (period after opening) symbol, which indicates how long a product lasts after opening (e.g. “12M” means twelve months).

Shelf life and storage of sunscreens

If stored correctly, unopened sunscreens last for at least 30 months, sometimes even up to three years. However, once opened, the products' shelf life is shorter because they come into contact with air and germs. The sun protection factor and effectiveness are retained in unopened products, as aok.de reports. Opened sunscreens usually have a shelf life of twelve months, which is often noted on the back of the tubes.

It is important to dispose of sunscreen in a timely manner if it smells unpleasant, has changed consistency or is discolored. These instructions also confirm the advice from oekotest.de. Expired products should no longer be used as they can be potentially harmful to your health.

Safe sun protection

To feel safe while sunbathing, consumers should note that at the beginning of summer the skin is often not very tanned and is therefore more susceptible to sunburn. Therefore, adequate sun protection is crucial. The German Dermatological Society recommends paying attention to the ingredient octocrylene, as it can form potentially carcinogenic substances under certain conditions.

Regularly reapplying sunscreen is essential. Adults should use three to four tablespoons for the entire body. In order to maintain the quality of the sunscreen, it also makes sense to store it in a cooler place. Products should be protected from extreme heat, such as in a car or in the blazing sun.

In summary, one thing remains to be said: only buy as much sunscreen as you need in one summer and dispose of any residue safely after your vacation. With this in mind, experts emphasize that forward planning and proper storage of sunscreen are crucial for skin protection in summer.