Unlike other skincare products, not all sunscreens have an expiration date on the package. For those that do, it’s not always easy to find them —sometimes they’re stamped into the crimped end of the tube or printed on the side of the bottle. Don’t give up if you can’t find it right away.

If you really can’t find an expiration date at all, it’s safe to assume any sunscreen product will be effective for three years after its manufacturing date. This is a requirement set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USDA). Always check for an expiration date when you purchase sunscreen and, if there isn’t one, write the date you bought it on the package and plan to use the product within three years.

How long sunscreen lasts once it’s opened simply depends on the expiration date. A product that’s six months from expiration should be just as effective as one that’s twelve months from expiration, as long as it’s been stored properly. Opening sunscreen doesn’t cause it to lose its effectiveness any faster.

As a general rule, it’s best not to use skincare products past their expiration date. Even if the product doesn’t irritate or damage your skin, it’s not going to be as effective as it once was. This is the primary concern with expired sunscreen—that it won’t protect your skin against the sun’s harmful UVA/UVB rays.

On top of reduced efficacy, sunscreen that has expired may be more difficult to apply evenly. Exposure to heat or sunlight could cause ingredients in the formula to break down or separate, making the product watery or lumpy and hard to apply. Even application is key when it comes to sun protection, so a cohesive product is best.

If you’re ever unsure whether your sunscreen has expired or if its effectiveness has been compromised by improper storage, it’s best to err on the side of caution and buy a new product.

Proper application is the key to maximizing the protection you get from any sunscreen, but it’s also important to choose the right product to begin with. Here are some simple tips for choosing the right sunscreen and applying it properly to ensure optimal protection:

• Choose a product with at least SPF 15 protection . Sunscreen with SPF 15 blocks up to 93% of the sun’s UVB rays. Dermatologists caution against wearing less than SPF 15 but many recommend a minimum of SPF 30 which blocks 97% of UVB rays.

• Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure . It takes time for sunscreen products to absorb into your skin, so apply it about 15 minutes before you head outside.

• Use more sunscreen than you think you need . A good rule of thumb to follow is to use about 1 ounce of sunscreen to cover exposed skin when wearing shorts and a T-shirt. And don’t forget to protect your face and neck!

• Reapply every two hours . Some products come with specific instructions for reapplication but most sunscreens last for about two hours under normal circumstances.

• Check the level of water resistance . No sunscreen is completely waterproof or sweatproof but some products are labeled water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Keep in mind you’ll have to reapply after swimming or toweling off.

With countless options to choose from, there’s a sunscreen product for every skin type. You can even narrow down the options according to your preferences for texture, tint, and SPF level. Here are a few sunscreen products we recommend from Exclusive Beauty Club:

Enjoy broad-spectrum SPF 50 sun protection while giving your skin a flawless, natural-looking finish with Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex from Colorescience. Its lightweight, hypoallergenic formula hydrates and nourishes the skin without leaving it feeling greasy. Plus, it utilizes adaptive tint technology to blend seamlessly with your skin tone.

This water- and sweat-resistant mineral sunscreen is powered by a 12% concentration of zinc oxide and enriched with antioxidants, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid.

Powered by patented DNA Repairsomes, ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50+ is clinically proven to repair existing sun damage. It’s a fast-absorbing, water-resistant formula that won’t leave your skin feeling greasy, making it comfortable for all-day wear.

If you want to protect your skin from future sun damage while fighting back against existing discoloration, this ultra-lightweight sunscreen could be just what you need.

Featuring a mineral-based formula, PCA Skin Sheer Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 45 delivers sheer protection from the sun’s harmful rays. It’s suitable for all skin types and a wide range of skin tones, plus it can be worn alone or layered under makeup.

Enjoy comfortable all-day wear with this water-resistant, universally tinted sunscreen from PCA Skin. 

Tired of sunscreen leaving your skin red and irritated? SkinCeuticals Clear Daily Soothing UV Defense SPF 50 could be the ideal solution. It’s a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen that delivers SPF 50 protection against UVA/UVB rays but the formula is specially designed to soothe sensitive skin and reduce visible redness.

Enjoy all-day hydration and lightweight, comfortable sun protection with this SkinCeuticals Soothing UV Defense formula

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that doesn’t make your skin feel greasy or leave behind a white cast, look no further than La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Tinted Sunscreen . Its lightweight formula glides on easily and creates a matte finish that delivers powerful SPF 50 protection against the sun’s harmful UVA/UVB rays.

Not only does this mineral sunscreen offer broad-spectrum protection, but it’s lightly tinted to give your skin a healthy glow. 

When it comes to protecting your skin against environmental damage and slowing the visible signs of aging, your best bet is to wear sunscreen on a daily basis. Choosing a sunscreen  with the right level of SPF protection is essential but it’s also wise to shop for products that are appropriate for your skin type. Don’t forget, you can also find products that deliver supplemental skin benefits like hydration or skin barrier repair.

If you’re not sure when you last replaced your sunscreen, it might be time. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to sun protection. Shop for new sunscreen and other skincare essentials at Exclusive Beauty Club. And don’t forget to check out the Exclusive Beauty Club blog for product recommendations and skincare tips.

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