Who Needs Gallons of Sunscreen and How Long Do They Last?

Understanding Gallon Sizes of Sunscreen

With summer approaching and people spending more time outdoors under the sun, the demand for sunscreen rises significantly. Many consumers look to purchase sunscreen in bulk quantities to save money and ensure adequate supply for the season. One common question is whether sunscreen comes in gallon sizes and if so, who would realistically need that much.

What is a Gallon of Sunscreen?

When someone refers to buying a "gallon of sunscreen," they literally mean a full gallon, which is equal to 128 fluid ounces. Most standard bottles of sunscreen available at pharmacies and retail outlets range from 1 fluid ounce to 16 fluid ounces at most. Therefore, a gallon would contain the equivalent of 16 standard 16-ounce bottles!

Due to its large size, a gallon of sunscreen is not something the average consumer would buy. Instead, it's more common among spas, resorts, day cares, summer camps, athletic facilities, and other organizations that need to supply sun protection for large groups of people.

Who Really Needs That Much Sunscreen?

While individual consumers are better off buying normal-sized bottles of sunscreen for personal and family use, certain higher-volume users find gallons more practical.

Spas and resorts may go through sunscreen quickly with guests reapplying throughout the day. Day camps need enough for all their campers as they play sports, swim, and participate in outdoor activities. Gyms and athletic clubs need to provide sunscreen for members using their outdoor facilities.

In these situations, buying sunscreen in bulk quantities saves money and ensures adequate supplies to meet demand. It prevents constantly running out of sunscreen and needing to run to the store to restock.

How Long Does a Gallon of Sunscreen Last?

With proper storage, unopened sunscreen can maintain its effectiveness for up to three years. However, once opened, sunscreen's ingredients begin degrading from exposure to oxygen, light, and heat. Most opened sunscreen remains effective for one to two years.

For organizations buying gallons of sunscreen, it may take one season to use it up depending on demand. Any leftovers can be stored for the following year. However, opened sunscreen degrades faster in a gallon versus smaller bottles that limit air exposure as less product gets used per use.

Other Bulk Sunscreen Options

While gallon sizes generate the most shock and awe, sunscreen also comes in other bulk options for high-volume users:

• Multi-packs of 16 oz bottles
• 32 oz pump dispensers
• 1-3 liter bottles

These offer a nice middle ground between gigantic gallons and tiny travel sizes. Bulk sunscreen packaging also often includes handy pumps for easy dispensing unlike gallons that require pouring.

Key Considerations for Bulk Sunscreen Buyers

When purchasing sunscreen in bulk, whether in gallons or other oversized packaging, buyers should evaluate a few key factors:

Ingredient Quality

Not all sunscreens are created equal. Bulk buying cheaper formulas with inferior UVA/UVB protection and skin hydration could backfire. Prioritize quality ingredients like zinc oxide and reputable brand names.

Size and Dispensing Method

Consider if a gallon is truly needed or if a liter or dispenser bottle would suffice. Also, assess how the sunscreen will get dispensed - pump bottles are most convenient for group usage situations.

Usage Projections

Review last year’s sunscreen usage data and factor in any projected increases in visitors/members. Don’t buy more gallons than reasonably needed even at a bulk discount.

Storage Capabilities

Make sure adequate climate-controlled storage exists on-site so opened sunscreen doesn’t degrade too quickly from heat exposure before using it up.

While rare for personal use, gallons of sunscreen play an important role for organizations needing bulk sun protection supplies during peak sunny seasons. Understanding key considerations around ingredients, packaging, volume projections and storage helps bulk sunscreen buyers make informed purchasing decisions.

FAQs

Who actually buys gallons of sunscreen?

Gallons of sunscreen are purchased by organizations like spas, resorts, camps, gyms, and athletic clubs that need large volumes to supply sun protection for many people rather than individual consumers.

How long does an opened gallon of sunscreen last?

Once opened, a gallon of sunscreen lasts around 1-2 years when stored properly before the ingredients start degrading from exposure to air, light, and heat.

What are some alternatives to gigantic gallon sizes?

Other bulk sunscreen options include multi-packs of 16 oz bottles, 32 oz pump dispensers, and 1-3 liter bottles which are easier to handle than gallons.

What should organizations consider when buying bulk sunscreen?

Key factors are ingredient quality, dispensing methods, usage projections based on prior years' data, and whether adequate climate-controlled storage exists onsite.