I rummaged through my beach bag and found a bottle of Coppertone sunscreen I bought last summer. What's the expiration rules?

If you found a bottle of Coppertone sunscreen in your beach bag from last summer, make sure it's still safe to use. While the bottle's expiration date is the most reliable indicator, you can use a few guidelines to determine its viability.

Look for the expiration date printed on the bottle. This could be on the bottom, side, or elsewhere on the packaging, indicated by phrases like "EXP" or "Exp. Date."
If you can't find a specific date, Coppertone recommends using their sunscreens within three years of purchase, provided they are stored properly in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

However, even if the sunscreen has not technically expired, it is critical to inspect it for signs of deterioration. If it has changed color, separated, developed a strong odor, or displayed any other unusual changes, it is best to be cautious and discard it.
Furthermore, keep in mind that sunlight, heat, and improper storage can all contribute to the degradation of sunscreen's protective properties over time.

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