Doctor warns this deadly bathroom mistake could raise your cancer risk

With the arrival of hot and scorching days, a leading expert has issued a stark warning about a common bathroom mistakes many people may make - storing sunscreen in the bathroom.

People may not realise that while bathroom seems like a safe place to store their creams, the heat and steam from showers could break down the active ingredients and render them less effective at shielding the skin. This means that even if you apply sun creams before stepping out in the sun, they may no longer protect you from sun burn, and skin damage, putting you at risk of skin cancer, and other adverse effects like skin irritation or premature aging.

Why this happens

Leading skin doctor Ed Robinson says direct sunlight and warm temperatures can reduce the effectiveness of the sunscreen and leave your skin unprotected.

"Using degraded SPF means you are not getting the full protection advertised on the bottle," Robinson was quoted as saying by The Daily Mail.

"This increases your risk of sunburn, premature ageing, and, more seriously, skin cancer," says the aesthetic doctor. Dr Robinson also warns about some less dangerous side effects of the broken-down ingredients - skin irritation or allergic reactions.

How to store your sun creams

Storing your sun creams in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat is advised. Avoid keeping them in places like bathrooms, car dashboards, or windowsills where temperature fluctuations can degrade their effectiveness.

Signs your sunscreen isn't working as before

Dr Robinson, who runs his practice in Cheshire, says people can check their sunscreen bottles to know the signs of the degradation of active ingredients.

If the texture of your sunscreen is runny, lumpy or its formula is separated, it's time to discard it, as this may not protect your skin fully from damage.

If it smells foul or the colour changes to a darker hue or become yellowish, this also means your sunscreen is no longer as effective as before.

Checking expiration date of the sun cream is also advised.

Apart from bathroom cabinets, Dr Robin, says sunscreen shouldn't be stored in car dashboards and glove boxes, windowsills and bags that are exposed to the sun.

How to apply sunscreen properly

Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin at least 15 minutes before going outside. Ensure to cover overlooked areas such as your lips, ears, and the back of your hands, and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.

Other common mistakes people make

Many people forget to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially after swimming or sweating. Others apply too little sunscreen, or skip areas like the ears, back of the neck, and feet, leaving those parts vulnerable to sun damage.

Making sure to apply your sun cream in the right way, and storing it in a cool and dark place, can prevent your skin from damage, premature aging, and a dreaded disease called cancer.