By Tag Clar Editorial
Using sunscreen may seem harmless on sunny days, but the reality is different. Experts warn that many people use old creams that can have serious health consequences.
Risks of Using Old Sunscreen
Sunscreens are not designed for just one summer season. Once opened, these products are usually usable for a maximum of 12 months. After this period, there is no guarantee of their effectiveness. If the creams are stored at high temperatures or in unsuitable conditions, this time can be even shorter.
Professor Eckhard Breitbart, a dermatologist, strongly recommends that instead of using old creams, it is better to buy a new package. He explains that the entry of oxygen into the creams causes changes in the compounds and reduces their effectiveness. Additionally, French researchers in a study showed that after one year, a compound called benzophenone appears in creams containing Octocrylene, which may be carcinogenic.
Dangerous Compounds and Better Choices
Research shows that among 17 sunscreens with SPF 50, 16 contained Octocrylene, and in these creams, benzophenone was increasing. Meanwhile, mineral creams like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are usually more stable and can be used for a longer period.
Therefore, before using sunscreen, be sure to check the expiration date and its ingredients. This can keep you safe from serious problems and health risks.
