Yes, sunscreen does expire. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mandates that sunscreen must maintain its original strength for at least three years. This means you can safely use leftover sunscreen from previous years. However, some sunscreens include an expiration date on the bottle, indicating when they are no longer effective.
Here are a few things to consider:
- The FDA requires sunscreen to remain at its original strength for three years. This means that you can use leftover sunscreen from one year to the next.
- Sunscreens with expiration dates should be discarded after the date.
- Sunscreens that have been stored in extreme temperatures or exposed to direct sunlight may expire sooner.
- Signs that sunscreen may have expired include changes in consistency, color, or smell.
It's always best to check the expiration date on your sunscreen and dispose of it if it's expired.
