Written By: Tania Tarafdar | Updated : July 6, 2016 11:56 AM IST
Read in Hindi
The good news is that you have a long day planned in the beach. And applying sunscreen is something you totally cannot avoid if you are going out in the sun. But how do you know that the sunscreen you are using has gone bad, and it is time to toss that one? Dermatologist Dr Chaitali Dixit, the founder of Contura clinic, Bangalore, answers your question.
The consistency has changed: With time, the liquid may separate out from your cream which could mean that the ingredients in it have broken down. Also, keep an eye on the colour of the sunscreen. The white colour can turn yellow.
The texture is no longer smooth: If you notice bumps and lumps in your creamy sunscreen, it could be an indication that the active ingredients are starting to break down and getting less efficient. Ingredients like titanium oxide and zinc oxide which are the two most important ingredients in a sunscreen can clump together over time.
Check the expiry date: Sunscreens have a shelf life of three years, but if you have been using one too judiciously for years it is the time that you throw it away and get a new bottle for yourself. To remember when to toss your sunscreen, write the purchase date on the lid of the sunscreen with a permanent marker. Follow these tips to use sunscreen the right way.
Skin irritation after application: When you use a formula with chemicals that are deteriorating you could develop a contact allergy. You could notice redness on your skin after use. Toss your old sunscreen and get a new one if you see any reaction on your skin.
Also, if you have been leaving your sunscreen in an area where it is exposed to sun and heat, the active ingredients in the sunscreen will eventually start to break down. So always ensure that you store your SPF in a cool and dry place. These tips will help you choose the right sunscreen.
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