Camilla Jessen
Grabbing last year’s leftover sunscreen might seem harmless — but experts warn it could leave your skin dangerously unprotected.
The warm weather is here, and many people are digging through drawers and beach bags for last year’s sunscreen. But what looks like a money-saver could come with a dangerous cost: increased risk of skin cancer.
A recent review from Sosialnytt, cited by Nyheder24, reveals that 67 percent of people use sunscreen from previous summers — unaware that expired or poorly stored creams may no longer protect against harmful UV rays.
Sunscreen Doesn’t Last Forever
It’s a common mistake: the cream still looks fine, smells okay, and seems to work — so why not use it again?
But according to sunscreen expert Helena Bjerke Franzen, that trust is misplaced. Over time, the UV filters break down, especially if the tube has been stored in warm, sunny spots like a car or bathroom cabinet.
The result? Your skin might be exposed without you even realizing it.
“Even if it looks normal, the protection might be gone,” Franzen warns.
How to Tell If Your Sunscreen Has Expired
Here are three red flags that your sunscreen has passed its prime:
- A sour or rancid smell
- Changed texture — lumpy, runny, or separated
- Faded color or a noticeable shift in consistency
- An expired date, usually marked on the packaging (often with a “12M” or similar symbol showing shelf life after opening)
And how you store it matters just as much. Keep sunscreen cool and dry, and never leave it in direct sunlight or hot environments, like a glove box or window ledge.
A Common Mistake: Not Using Enough
Even with fresh sunscreen, many people don’t use the right amount.
Experts recommend applying 30–40 ml per use — about a handful — to fully protect the body. Anything less and you’re not getting the full SPF stated on the label.
And studies show men are more likely to make both mistakes: using old sunscreen and not applying enough.