Why we waste half the sunscreen we buy

La sunscreen, essential for protecting ourselves, especially in summer, from UV rays, is one of the most wasted cosmetic products. According to statistics, we throw away about half of the product contained in the package, and this is due to bad habits in use and storage, but also to packaging specifically designed to encourage waste. creme sun care and therefore encourage new purchases.

The main reasons for this waste are:

• We apply too little of it: the protection indicated on the label (SPF 30, 50, etc.) is measured in the laboratory with approximately 2 mg/cm² of skinIn real life, most people use 25% to 50% of the amount needed. By using too little, we achieve the opposite effect in terms of consumption: we apply it more often and therefore in greater quantities but with less effectiveness.
• A part remains on the hands: when spread, some remains on the palms and fingers or is absorbed by towels, clothes, sand, chairs, sunbeds, etc.
• Frequent reapplicationWater, sweat, and friction degrade or remove UV filters. To maintain protection, reapply frequently.
• Inefficient packagingSprays and pumps disperse product into the air or into the mechanism. Sprays, in particular, can lose a lot of product before it even reaches the skin.
• Redundant protectionMany people wear very thick layers “just in case,” especially with high SPFs. But beyond a certain point, the real gain is small: SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, SPF 50 about 98%.
• Expiration and deterioration: some end up being thrown away because they are left in the heat, in the car, or left open for too long. UV filters can degrade. Furthermore, creme sun care, once opened, have a limited shelf life, usually indicated by the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol, almost always around 12 months.
• Improper storage. expose the cream to heat, to direct light Sun or high humidity (such as leaving it under an umbrella or in the car) degrades the active components.

To reduce waste without reducing protection:

• used creme instead of sprays if possible;
• applied to dry skin;
• dosed for different areas of the body;
• keep the product in a cool, shaded place;
• choose small formats if you use the cream rarely.

Read also:

• How to apply sunscreen
• How to Use Expired or Leftover Sunscreen: 10 Ideas