BOZEMAN, Mont. – Wearing sunscreen while you’re outside is the best way to protect your skin, but did you know sunscreen expires?
Some bottles will have expiration dates but healthcare professionals say if you’re using sunscreen that’s a year old, it’s time to get a new bottle.
You can use expired sunscreen but chances are you aren’t getting the protection you think you are.
“It works, but not as well. You’ll have that sense of, I’m wearing a 30 plus and it’s really like a 10 or 15, and you wonder, ‘Gee, why did I get sunburn?’ Or why was I more sensitive in the sun this time versus the last time. It’s probably because you’re wearing a sunscreen that’s not quite as effective,” Bozeman Health Nurse Practitioner Keven Comer said.
Comer said wearing 30 SPF gives you the best coverage and protection.
