Old sunscreen, whether expired or simply unused from a previous season, requires proper handling to ensure environmental safety and effectiveness.
When is Sunscreen Considered "Old"?
Sunscreen can be considered "old" in a few scenarios, impacting how you should manage it:
- Expired Sunscreen: Most sunscreens have an expiration date, typically three years from the manufacturing date. Using sunscreen past this date is not recommended as its effectiveness in protecting against UV radiation may be compromised, and its ingredients could degrade.
- Unexpired But Degraded Sunscreen: Even if not past its official expiration date, sunscreen can spoil if exposed to extreme temperatures or stored improperly. Signs include:
- A noticeable change in color or smell.
- Separation of ingredients, making it watery or clumpy.
- An unusual or gritty texture.
- Unexpired But Unwanted Sunscreen: You might simply have leftover sunscreen from a past season that's still perfectly good, but you no longer need it.
Disposing of Expired or Degraded Sunscreen
Proper disposal is crucial to prevent harmful chemicals from entering the environment.
Check Your Local Waste Management Rules
Disposal guidelines can vary by municipality. Always check your local waste management website or contact them directly for the most accurate information on how to dispose of cosmetics and personal care products in your area.
Trash Disposal
For expired or degraded sunscreen that isn't empty, tossing the container and leftover sunscreen into your regular trash may be acceptable, especially if your local landfill is lined. This lining helps prevent unused sunscreen components from entering the water supply. If you're unsure, it's generally best to squeeze out as much of the remaining product as possible into a paper towel or newspaper and dispose of that in the trash separately before attempting to recycle the container.
Recycling the Container
Once you've removed the bulk of the sunscreen product:
- Clean the Container: Rinse the bottle or tube thoroughly with water to remove any residue.
- Check Recycling Symbols: Look for the recycling symbol (usually a triangle with a number inside) on the container. Common recyclable plastics include HDPE (#2) and PP (#5).
- Separate Components: Pumps and caps are often made of different materials and may need to be removed or disposed of separately if not recyclable in your area. Some complex packaging, like aerosol cans, might have specific recycling instructions or be considered hazardous waste.
- Consult Local Guidelines: Confirm with your local recycling program what types of plastics and materials they accept.
Hazardous Waste Disposal (Rare)
While less common for standard sunscreens, some specialized formulas or very large quantities might be considered household hazardous waste in certain regions. If you are uncertain, your local waste management facility can provide clarification.
What About Unexpired But Unwanted Sunscreen?
If your sunscreen is unexpired and in good condition (no signs of spoilage), don't just throw it away!
Donate It
Many charitable organizations welcome donations of unexpired, unopened personal care products. Consider donating to:
- Homeless shelters
- Women's shelters
- Community centers
- Schools (for outdoor events or trips)
- Medical missions
Always contact the organization first to confirm their donation policies for sunscreen.
Use It Up
If the sunscreen is still effective and safe, make sure you use it completely! Sunscreen is essential for skin health, and you can apply it generously to:
- Areas often missed, like ears, neck, feet, and scalp (if hair is thin).
- Reapply regularly during extended outdoor exposure.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Improper disposal of sunscreen can contribute to environmental pollution. Chemicals found in some sunscreens, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, can negatively impact aquatic ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. By disposing of sunscreen correctly, especially by utilizing lined landfills where appropriate or through recycling programs, you help minimize its environmental footprint and protect natural water sources.
| Sunscreen Status | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Expired/Degraded | 1. Squeeze out product into trash (if landfill is lined). 2. Rinse container thoroughly. 3. Recycle container (if accepted locally). 4. Check local hazardous waste if unsure. |
| Unexpired/Good Condition | 1. Donate to a charitable organization (if unopened). 2. Use it up yourself. |
