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Trigger warning: Skincare products have an expiration date.
That super splurgy serum we used once and left out as an aesthetic decor piece?
Probably past its prime.
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(And,for scientific purposes only, what would happen if weused it anyway?)
Meet the Experts
Do Skincare Products Have Expiration Dates?
It can often be found on the back of the bottle or the bottom of the jar.
He advises using this date as a hard toss date"a.k.a throw it out no matter what."
What if a Skincare Product Doesn’t Show an Expiration Date?
“After a product is opened, it should be used as directed, within one year.
Dr. Chopra has another idea: Jot down your own expiration.
This can help you monitor how long it’s taking for you to see results, too.
And if you’ve lost track of time, there are certain visual cues to look out for.
“Separation of product at room temperature is a sure sign of instability,” adds King.
“Off odor or strange feel can also indicate instability.
However, most skin care products these days are marketed as fragrance-free so off-odor can be subjective.
The key is separation in room temperature is an absolute no-no.”
Use your best judgmentif you think it’s time to toss it, it probably is.
Many of these, as well as organic products in general, do not use preservatives.
Consider storing these in the refrigerator, and plan to use them quickly.
“Broad-spectrum preservatives help prevent the growth of bacteria and yeasts.
These products can be hotbeds for organisms to grow, so be particularly careful with these.”
Toss any sunscreen or anti-acne treatments that are past their expiration dates.
In general, any products that contain acids should not be kept beyond their expiration dates.
Also, use your judgment.
“If you dont finish your product within one year, several things can happen,” says Stenzel.
“First, invisible bacteria can thrive in old products, especially in a humid environment like your bathroom.
If applied to the skin, this bacteria can cause irritation, rashes, or breakouts.”
Stenzel adds thatevery time you stick your finger in a jar of skincare, youre contaminating it.
Its just good hygiene.”
“The active ingredients won’t be as active.
So throw it out.
This is especially important to note with products like sunscreen.
Thus, you want to ensure that your sun protection is functioning optimally,” Dr. Chopra says.
“If it’s a regular skincare [product], you may not get the best benefits.
King advises keeping the lids on tight to avoid overexposure to air.
Additionally, this will ensure water does not get into the container, as mold may develop over time.
“Bacteria loves water,” notes Kings.
“Keep [a product] away from high moisture areas unless it is meant forin-shower use.”
“When in doubt, don’t use it,” says King.
“Especially when it is an OTC product like sunscreen or acne treatment.”
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Shelf life and expiration dating of cosmetics.
Updated February 25, 2022.
