Anyone know how long sunscreen is good for?

[nucpharm29]

We're going to WDW in about 3 weeks! Yeah!!! And I'm trying to get some stuff together, and I found 2-3 bottles of sunblock leftover from last summer. Would they still be good to use this year? Or should I just break down and buy some new?

 

[Lisa loves Pooh]

You will need new sunblock.

I don't recall the precise shelf life (there might be dates on the bottle)--but do recall them saying in safety articles or on the news or somewhere...that you need to chuck the old bottles and get new ones.

Though here says 2 years...so you could use it--check the consistency of the tubes and make sure the aren't labeled with an expired expiration date.

As with any over-the counter or other type of medication, always check the label to make sure that the product isn't past its expiration date. According to the American Sun Protection Association, sunscreens have a shelf life of about 2 years, after which the chemicals can separate from the solution, giving the product a gritty feel. FDA says you should also avoid storing sunscreen products in direct sunlight, as high temperatures can affect these kinds of products

http://www.stayinginshape.com/3osfcorp/libv/p06.shtml

 

[Breezy_Carol]

I believe it is 2 years but you never know how long it was at the store before you bought it. A sunburn at WDW isn't worth saving a few dollars. (And I am a person who likes to save all I can.)

 

[KristiKelly]

Some will have dates on the bottom. I nad never paid much attention until last year when all 4 of us got sunburn and DD4 got sun poisoning. From now on, I will buy new every year, it's a small price to pay.

 

[nucpharm29]

Thanks for all the info. I'm heading to the pharmacy anyway today, so I'll pick up some new!