I recently asked several people I know where they keep their tanning lotions.  What do you think was the #1 answer? That's right... in their cars.  A few people said, "In a pool or beach bag," but when further questioned where do you think they kept their bag?  Yup, that's right again... in their car.

How hot does your car get on a sunny, humid, 98 degree, August day?  Well, let's just say temperatures inside cars are known to rise well over the 120 degree mark. 

The importance to all of this is that heat causes chemicals to react.  The chemicals and fluid that make up your suntan lotion have a tendency to break down from heat.  So over exposure to your cars "hot box effect" will cause the lotion to deteriorate and eventually become completely useless.  A few too many days left in the car and the next burning problem will be on your skin.  Ouch!! 

If you use oils you may be in luck.  Now, I don't recommend using them, but if you do, they will hold up better to the heat.  They still can expire but not nearly as quickly.  If you use a typical lotion then your best bet is to make sure you bring it inside.  If you're at the beach or pool keep the lotion in your cooler.  Not only does it keep the lotion fresh and protect it from breaking down, it also feels good when you put it on!

Try and replace your suntan lotion, and those used for indoor tanning beds, every 12 months. Even without heat lotions are known to break down over time.  Your skin isn't worth the risk!

So, if you are one of those people who leave their lotion in the car or is using last summers purchase, you know what you have to do next... buy some new suntan lotion and keep it where you should, out of the heat!