Experts roundly agree that we should be wearing sunscreen every single day, even when it’s cloudy.
That’s because the sun’s UVA and UVB rays can damage our skin, ageing it and leading to an increased risk of skin cancer.
You’ll also likely need to use much more sunscreen than you’d expect.
The NHS says “adults should aim to apply around 6 to 8 teaspoons of sunscreen if you’re covering your entire body” – consumer advocacy publication Which? points out this is almost a fifth of a standard bottle.
And now, aesthetic doctor Ed Robinson has partnered with St. Moriz to reveal another pearl of SPF wisdom; he says he never keeps his sunscreen in the bathroom.
What’s wrong with keeping sunscreen in the bathroom?
“SPF should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures,” the doctor shares.
This is partly because “Direct sunlight can cause the active ingredients to break down, reducing the effectiveness of the sunscreen and leaving your skin unprotected.”
As a result, he advises against storing your SPF in car dashboards and glove boxes, windowsills, and bags which are exposed to the sun.
Bathrooms are another no-go for the doctor because “heat and steam from showers can affect [sunscreen’s] stability.
“Using degraded SPF means you are not getting the full protection advertised on the bottle,” he adds.
“This increases your risk of sunburn, premature ageing, and, more seriously, skin cancer… In some cases, broken-down ingredients can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.”
How can I tell if my sunscreen has broken down?
Sunscreen which is degrading may have a different texture – it could be runnier, lumpier, and ‘split,’ the expert tells us.
“If the formula has changed consistency, it may also apply unevenly, leading to patchy protection,” Dr Robinson comments.
A rancid smell or darker or yellowish colour usually means your sunscreen isn’t as able to do its job as it should be, too.
You should also check your sunscreen’s expiry dates – most bottles only last one to three years.
Where should I keep my sunscreen?
“Ideally, keep SPF in a drawer, cupboard, or bag that is not exposed to heat sources,” the doctor says.
“If you’re carrying SPF on the go, store it in a shaded area of your bag rather than leaving it in a hot car or by a window.”
The US Food and Drug Administration says that if you do need to bring sunscreen outside in the heat, you should wrap it in a towel if no shade is available.
This helps to keep it in the cool, dark conditions it needs to stay effective.
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