5 Things to Know About Sunscreen and Heat Damage

Heat degrades sunscreen faster than light Leaving sunscreen in a hot car or direct sunlight causes it to expire sooner. Heat is the main enemy, not UV exposure.

High temperatures break down active ingredients Both chemical and mineral sunscreen ingredients degrade at high temperatures. A car can reach 140°F inside on a summer day, ruining the formula in weeks or even days.

Direct sunlight adds heat but temperature spikes are the bigger risk While sunlight contributes some heat, the real danger is the extreme temperature buildup in enclosed spaces like cars.

Check texture and smell before using If sunscreen feels watery, grainy, or smells weird, toss it. If unchanged, it may still work, but don’t rely on it for a full beach day.

Store sunscreen in your bag, not the glovebox Keep it in a cooler place like your bag or a shaded spot. Your skin will thank you.