Old Sun Cream Could Leave You Burned This Easter
With Easter weekend and a sizzling mini heatwave hitting the UK, Brits are digging out their sun cream for days out in the sun. But experts warn: that bottle left over from last summer might be useless—or worse, leave your skin dangerously unprotected.
How to Tell If Your Sunscreen Is Dead
Sun protection is crucial as families head for picnics, barbecues, and beach trips. But expired or badly stored sunscreen won’t cut it. The NHS says always check the expiry date—look for a tiny jar symbol with a number like “12M,” which means it’s good for 12 months after opening.
- Texture changes—if your SPF cream goes watery, grainy, or separates, bin it.
- Smell shifts—any weird or off-putting scent is a red flag.
- Discolouration—any odd colour or appearance means it’s time for a fresh bottle.
“Expired sunscreen can’t be relied upon to provide any of that wonderful protection,” warns skincare experts from Paula’s Choice. “Heat, sunlight, and moisture break down sunscreen faster.”
Pro tip: store your sun cream somewhere cool, dry, and shaded. When out in the sun, keep the bottle wrapped in a towel to protect it.
NHS Urges More Than Just Sunscreen
The NHS reminds us that sunscreen is just one part of staying safe under the sun’s rays. “Sunburn increases your risk of skin cancer. You can burn in the UK—even when it’s cloudy,” warns official guidance. Plus, “there’s no safe or healthy way to get a tan. A tan does not protect your skin.”
Follow these top tips from the NHS:
- Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30
- Look for 4-star UVA protection or the “UVA in a circle” symbol
- Always check the expiry date before using
- Wear protective clothing and seek shade between 11am and 3pm
Don’t Risk It This Bank Holiday—Get Fresh Sun Cream Now
With UV levels climbing and the long Easter weekend promising sunshine, don’t gamble with old sun cream. A pharmacist on X (formerly Twitter) said: “It’s tempting to grab last year’s bottle and assume it’s still good. But if it’s expired or been sat in the sun, it won’t do the job.”
Use Sun Cream Right—Reapply and Slather It On
Remember, sunscreen isn’t a one-and-done deal. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating buckets. Most folks don’t use enough—adults need about six teaspoons to cover their whole body properly.
Whether it’s the beach, park, or your back garden this weekend, make sun safety your top priority. Your skin will thank you later.
