Suntan lotion is an Indoor tanning lotion, used to increase tanning. This lotion has an SPF of less than 15 and isn’t safe to use as sunscreen.
That is because, unlike sunscreen, suntan lotion can’t prevent sunburn, skin cancer, or premature aging.
It can only help to increase the effectiveness of your tanner.
So, how long does Suntan lotion last Before it expires?
As required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), suntan lotions will remain at their original strengths for at least three years.
This implies that you comfortably use leftover suntan lotion from one year to the next.
How Long Does Suntan Lotion Last After Expiration Date?
Suntan lotion should be good for about 3 more years after the expiration date.
After the expiration date, you can technically use your suntan lotion for a long time unless your skin is extremely sensitive
And develops rashes or experience discomfort after use.
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How Long Does Suntan Lotion Last Once Open?
After the opening of the suntan lotion, the shelf life depends largely on the user. The storage condition determines how long the suntan lotion will last.
A lotion that has been stored in a cool dry place will be more active than that being kept in a hot environment or in contact with direct sunlight.
Also if you develop the character of always keeping your suntan lotion closed after use,
Then rest assured that the lotion will remain active till the last drop.
How Long Does Suntan Lotion Last On Skin?
Suntan lotions activate your tan much more quickly than ultraviolet radiation because of their main ingredient, Dihydroxyacetone (DHA).
This tanning lotion will give you a bronze shade lasting up to 5 days before starting to fade.
Does Suntan Lotion Really Expire?
Suntan lotion does have an expiration date, this is the time the manufacturer will guarantee its effectiveness.
So using suntan lotion after the expiration date is at your own risk because the company won’t be held responsible for any damages that may occur.
How To Tell If Suntan Lotion Is Bad
Suntan lotion is designed to last three years from the date of manufacture.
So, in other to tell if the suntan is bad, the first thing to do is check for an expiration date on the container.
If you can’t find any dates, then go for a visual test.
Check for changes in texture, such as piling or clumping, and also check for changes in the smell that is,
If it starts to have a funny smell, it’s a likely indicator that the lotion has been contaminated with bacteria.
In short, if the suntan lotion is a different color, and smells weird, becomes chunky, or watery, it’s likely expired.
What Does Good Suntan Lotion Smell Like?
The unmistakable scent of coconut oil, cocoa butter, and a hint of jasmine is associated with the fragrances of most suntan products today,
But more and more formulations have become available as trends continue to evolve.
Best Substitutes For Suntan Lotion
Here are the best alternative for this moisturizer;
- Bondi Sands
- Isle of paradise Pro Glow Spray Tan Mister
- Dior Self-Tanning Liquid Sun
- St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse.
- St Moriz.
- Loving Tan Deluxe Face Tan
- Dolce Black Bronzer Tanning Lotion
- Tan luxe.
- Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love
- Whind Ourika Sun Instant Glow Tinting Water
What Does Rancid Suntan Lotion Smell Like?
The rancid smell from your suntan lotion indicates that the lotion is likely contaminated with bacteria.
Sour, pungent, or any funny or off-putting smell at all is associated with a rancid smell.
When this happens it’s a sign that the lotion should be thrown out.
How Do You Make Suntan Lotion Last Longer?
You can make your suntan lotion last longer by:
- Exfoliating so that dead skin cells can go off and for your previous tan to fade evenly.
- Moisturize daily to prevent shedding, doing so will make your sun tan lotion last longer.
- After application tries as much as possible to avoid certain skincare products that salicylic acid and exfoliants.
- Avoid swimming for a long time as chlorine acts as a bleaching agent.
- Avoid bathing with hot water.
- Always keep your skin hydrated by drinking water. Remember that hydrated skin is happy skin, happy skin is healthy skin and healthy skin will keep your tan on more than an unhealthy one.
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Best Types Of Sunscreen Lotion
Here are the best types of sunscreen;
Light Moisture UV Defense
This versatile fragrance-free SkinCeuticals SPF is easy to rub thoroughly into the skin and is invisible.
When used for both face and body, it doesn’t burn, making it great for everyday use as it keeps you protected from the 100-degree sun rays and heat.
Light Moisture UV Defense has an SPF of 50 its active ingredients are Homosalate (10%), Avobenzone (3%), Octisalate (7%), and Octocrylene (7%).
Pros (soaks in quickly, not oily, drying, or tacky, no white residue)
Cons (expensive and not water-resistant)
SHISEIDO (Best sunscreen for dry skin)
Shiseido’s luxe SPF 50 earned the highest score in GH Beauty Lab testing for making skin feel hydrated, making it an excellent choice for those with dry skin types.
It is also highly ranked for not leaving a white film on the skin, rinsing off easily, and having a pleasant fragrance.
The active ingredients are Homosalate (10%), Octocrylene (5%), Octisalate (5%), and Avobenzone (2.3%),
Pros (80 minutes water resistance, won’t leave a white film on skin, appealing scent)
Cons (may be runny and it’s expensive).
JULEP (Best sunscreen for acne-prone skin)
This innovative clear gel Julep sunscreen is lightweight and super-easy to apply, it didn’t feel oily, or sticky, or leave a white or gray cast behind.
It goes well on all skin types, including acne-prone and oily skin, and is perfect for all skin tones from fair to dark.
Julep has an SPF of 40, it’s active ingredients are Homosalate (8%), Octisalate (5%), Avobenzone (3%), and Octocrylene (2.6%)
Pros (clear non-greasy gel, won’t cause blemishes, and doesn’t leave behind a white cast)
Cons (Expensive)
VICHY
(Best overall sunscreen for the face). LiftActiv Peptide-C Sunscreen SPF 30 is scored well for absorbing quickly,
Its appealing texture, not making skin feel dry, and does not feel sticky or greasy.
Aveeno Protect + Hydrate SPF 60
According to Michele Green, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, Aveeno’s
Protect + Hydrate SPF 60 is great for all skin types because it contains four sun filters: homosalate, avobenzone, octisalate, and octocrylene.
It also contains colloidal oatmeal to help reduce inflammation of the skin,
As well as stimulate the production of collagen
Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50
This has been a fan-favorite face and body sunscreen lotion for quite some time.
In 2015, this broad-spectrum SPF 50 lotion won an Allure Readers’ Choice Award.
Containing moisturizing sunflower extract to soften skin for a smoother and suppler feel,
The gentle formula has a non-greasy feel that quickly dries into a sheer, lightweight, sweat- and water-resistant veil.
EltaMD UV Lotion Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+
This is one of the best mineral sunscreens around. Infused with antioxidant vitamin E, hydrating hyaluronic acid,
And free-radical-fighting, this zinc oxide-based formula doesn’t only provide UVA and UVB protection but also makes your skin feel silkier than ever.
It is perfect for all skin types because it is fragrance-free, lightweight, and oil-free
RODAN and FIELDS
Essentials Face + Body Sunscreen SPF 50 (Best overall sunscreen for the body)
HAWAIIAN TROPIC
Antioxidant + Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 (Best value sunscreen for the body)
- Coppertone Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
- Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
- CeraVe Mineral Body Sunscreen SPF 50
- Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Body Shield SPF 50
- Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 for Face & Body
- Coola Classic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 in Guava Mango
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Conclusion
Although the terms ‘suntan lotions’ and ‘sunscreens’ are used interchangeably
It is good we know that they are both different and one can’t be used in an exchange for the other.
Suntan lotion is designed to accelerate tanning with little or no sun protection factor.
So using it in place of sunscreens will give you a darker shade instead of protecting your skin from UV rays.
Remember, how long does Suntan Lotion last?