Does Sunscreen Expire? Here’s What To Know

Sunscreen is a year-round skincare essential, but how long does it actually last?

The short answer: yes, it does expire, and using an old one could mean your skin isn’t properly protected. From unopened bottles to how to store them properly, this guide covers everything you need to know. Consider it your one-stop shop FAQ on all things sunscreen shelf life, along with some A-rated picks of our current favourite SPFs.

Does Sunscreen Expire?

Yes, all sunscreens expire, even if you’ve barely made a dent in the bottle. The active ingredients that shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays degrade over time, making the product less reliable and much less effective. That means it may not prevent sunburn or long-term damage like pigmentation and premature ageing, even if you’re still applying it regularly.

In addition to a drop in protection, expired sunscreen can also change in texture or scent, which may be a sign that the formula is breaking down. When this happens, it can cause irritation or simply feel off on the skin, not exactly the experience you're after when trying to look after your complexion.

How Long Does Sunscreen Last After Opening?

Once opened, most sunscreens will stay effective for between six to twelve months. You’ll usually find a small open jar symbol on the tube or bottle with a number (like 6M or 12M), which indicates how many months it should remain safe to use. But that assumes it’s been stored well and kept away from extreme conditions.

Heat, direct sunlight, and exposure to air can all cause the ingredients to break down faster, especially if you’re using chemical filters. Even the most robust formula won’t last long if it’s been rolling around in a hot beach bag. And if your SPF starts to smell unusual, separate in the tube, or feels different on the skin, that’s a good sign it’s past its best and should be replaced.

Does Unopened Sunscreen Expire Too?

It does. Even if the bottle is sealed and hasn’t been touched, sunscreen has a shelf life. Most unopened sunscreens stay stable for around three years, but it’s always best to check the printed expiry date, as that will vary depending on the formula.

To get the most out of your SPF before it even makes it into your skincare routine, try to store it somewhere cool, dark and dry like a bathroom drawer or beauty cabinet. If it’s been exposed to heat, fluctuating temperatures or direct sunlight (say, sitting in a sunny shop window or car boot), it could degrade faster even if it hasn’t been opened.

What Happens If You Use Expired Sunscreen?

Using expired sunscreen may feel harmless, but the reality is it can put your skin at risk. Once the protective ingredients lose their effectiveness, your skin may no longer be shielded against UV rays, which defeats the purpose of wearing SPF in the first place.

You might also notice that the texture or performance isn’t quite right; it could go on patchy, feel greasy or pill under makeup. Worse still, if the formula has started to spoil, it could lead to breakouts, sensitivity or even an allergic reaction. The best approach to take is if the sunscreen’s expired or you’re not quite sure, it’s safer to replace it.

How to Store Sunscreen So It Lasts Longer

How you store your sunscreen plays a big role in how long it stays fresh. Ideally, it should be kept in a cool, dry space, well away from direct sunlight or sources of heat. That means avoiding the glovebox in summer, the edge of your bath, or the side of a sun-drenched sink.

If you’re on holiday or heading out for the day, try to keep your SPF tucked away in your bag or wrapped in a towel to minimise heat exposure. And if you know you don’t wear sunscreen daily, think about buying a smaller tube or a travel-size bottle - it’s a more cost-effective and less wasteful option that ensures you’ll always have fresh product to hand.

When to Replace Your SPF

As a rule of thumb, a 50ml face SPF should last around two months if you’re using it every day as recommended - around half a teaspoon per application. If you’ve still got a half-used bottle lurking from last year’s holiday, chances are it’s expired or no longer performing at its best.

To keep track, get into the habit of noting the month and year you first opened the bottle; a quick scribble on the label with a permanent marker works well. It takes the guesswork out of it and makes it easier to know when it’s time to shop for a fresh one.

Sunscreens We Love

So, does sunscreen expire? It absolutely does, and it’s worth checking those bottles before your next sunny outing.

Unopened or otherwise, every SPF has a shelf life. A quick once-over of your collection now could save your skin later. And if you’re due a restock, there’s never been a better time to try something new from our edit above. After all, your skin deserves daily protection that actually works.

For more on sun protection, check out our guide on The Best Face SPFs For Summer, and for more on summer beauty, take a look at our guide on The Best Waterproof Mascara: Pool-Proof & Smudge-Free.