Written by Margaret Kontras Sutton, M.D.
Now that you know the basics we are ready to move on to advanced information about sunscreen. Patients often ask me “How long does my bottle of sunscreen stay fresh?” If you are using sunscreen in generous enough amounts, one bottle should be lasting only a few weeks. But do pay attention to the expiration date on the bottle if there is one. Also sunscreen that is exposed to heat, such as in a hot car or kept in a golf bag will degrade more rapidly.
What about spray sunscreens? Good question. Sprays are sometimes easy to skimp on when applying. It is also easy to miss spots when using sprays. Therefore it is recommended to still rub in the sunscreen even if it has been applied by spraying. The FDA is studying the potential for danger in inhaling spray sunscreen, so when applying to the face, spray the sunscreen into the hand first, then apply to the face.
Lastly watch out for places which are easy to miss when applying sunscreen. The backs of the ears, the back of the neck, and the scalp are easy to forget. Last week I saw a very large skin cancer on the back of the ear in a physician who admitted that he never remembered to apply sunscreen in that location. A wide-brimmed hat would go a long way to remedy this problem.
Our #1 selling sunscreen is our Colorescience Sunforgettable brush which is mineral based, easy to apply and works great over makeup. You can purchase it at suttonderm.com.
