Redness, irritation, skin rash, allergy, discomfort... Expired skincare products can lead to undesirable reactions of the epidermis. Therefore, it is always necessary to check their expiry date. But what are the signs that can help identify an expired skincare product?
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The signs that a product has expired.
Summary
- How to recognise if a skincare product has 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 recognise if a skincare product has expired?
The signs to identify an expired skincare product are as follows:
Alteration of Colour ;
Change in scent (alcoholic or sour smell);
Alteration of Texture (viscous, lumpy or biphasic appearance).
For instance, if your face cream does not smell the same as when you first started using it, or if it has slightly yellowed, it is likely expired. As for foundations, it is advisable to observe their texture. If your foundation no longer has the same colour 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 is better to avoid using a product that has been exposed to heat for a prolonged period (such as sun creams, 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 particularly with expired sun creams 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 harmful to 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:
Face cream, face 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 has not been opened, it can be preserved for several years.
For optimal usage duration, store your products in a dry place, so avoid leaving your skincare products lying around 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 need to be stored in a cool place, so do read the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
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