Redness, irritation, skin rash, allergy, discomfort... Expired skincare products can lead to undesirable skin reactions. Therefore, it is necessary to always check their expiration date. But what are the signs that a skincare product has expired?
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The signs that a product has expired.
Summary
- How to recognize if a skincare product is expired?
- What are the effects of using expired skincare products?
- How to Preserve Your Skincare Products?
Published February 19, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
4 min read
How to recognize if a skincare product is expired?
The signs to recognize an expired skincare product are as follows:
Color Alteration ;
Change in Scent (alcoholic or sour smell);
Alteration of Texture (viscous, lumpy, or biphasic appearance).
For instance, if your face cream doesn't smell the same as when you first started using it, or if it has slightly yellowed, it is likely expired. As for foundations, it's important to observe their texture. If your foundation no longer has the same color or if you notice an oily residue, stop using it. You can also refer to the period after opening (P.A.O.), indicated on the packaging. Moreover, it's better to avoid using a product that has been exposed to heat for a long duration (like sunscreens, for example).
What are the effects of using expired skincare products?
Avoid storing and using expired skincare products, regardless of their nature, as there is a bacterial risk. This can lead to undesirable effects such as: rashes, itching, inflammation, irritation, redness, conjunctivitis, or even burns especially with expired sunscreens as they are no longer effective. A special note for all products that are applied to the lips (lip balm, tinted balm, lipstick, gloss) which can be dangerous for the body, given that these are largely ingested.
How to Preserve Your Skincare Products?
The shelf life varies for each skincare product. This depends on its packaging (tube, bottle, jar...) and its composition. Generally, here is the shelf life of each product after it has been opened:
Facial cream, facial serum, or eye contour treatment: 6 to 12 months;
Sunscreen: One season;
Makeup Remover and Facial Cleansing Gel: 12 months;
Deodorant: 12 months;
Liquid foundation: 6 to 12 months;
Shower Gel: 24 to 36 months;
Exfoliation: 12 to 24 months;
Vegetable oil: 6 to 12 months;
Hydrosol: 6 to 12 months;
Tonic Lotion: 12 months;
Mascara: 6 to 12 months;
Face Mask: 6 to 12 months;
Eyeshadow: 6 to 24 months;
Lipstick: 12 to 24 months;
Body care products (body cream/lotion, hand balm, etc...) : 6 to 12 months;
Shampoo: 12 to 24 months.
As long as the skincare product is stored in the right place and it has not been opened, it is possible to keep it for several years.
For optimal usage duration, store your products in a dry place, so avoid leaving your skincare items in your bathroom. Do not expose them to heat, humidity, and sunlight. Remember to properly close the containers after each use and to wash your hands systematically before touching your skincare products to avoid any risk of contamination. Some products will require cool storage, so be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions.
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