Explainer / Is it safe to use expired skincare? How to check if your moisturiser, serum or oil has degraded – and the health risks associated with using contaminated products
Who among us hasn’t held onto a collection of skincare products for perhaps longer than we should have? The thing about skincare though is that keeping track of expiration dates is crucial.
So when do skincare products expire, and how can you determine if they are still safe to use? Let’s delve into the world of skincare product expiration and find out what signs you should watch out for.
Understanding skincare product expiration
Dr. Bruce Brod, a dermatologist at Penn Medicine, points out that some products might display a “period after opening” symbol with a time frame for safe use. However, this labelling is not mandatory, and even if present, it’s only useful if you remember when you first opened the product.
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The risks of using expired skincare products
Brod emphasises that if you can’t remember when you bought a skincare product, it’s better to err on the side of caution and avoid using it. Using products that are past their prime can lead to potential risks.
Over time, opened skincare products can degrade and become breeding grounds for microorganisms. Elisabeth Anderson, from the Center for Research on Ingredient Safety at Michigan State University, warns that products exposed to moisture, like those in bathrooms, can easily become contaminated.
Contaminated products can lead to skin irritation, eczema and infections. Dr. Anne Chapas, a dermatologist from the American Academy of Dermatology, notes that applying a contaminated product directly to your skin can result in serious facial infections, especially if there are scratches or abrasions.
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Determining safety and effectiveness
The most accurate way to determine if an older skincare product is safe is to have it lab-tested for bacteria. However, if you don’t have a science lab tucked away at home, there are some telltale signs of degradation you can watch for instead. Separation of oil and water, changes in texture or colour, and a bad or unusual smell are indications that a product has degraded. If something seems off, it’s best not to use it.
Making informed decisions
To keep track of product lifespans, mark the opening date of a new serum or moisturiser and check for any expiration dates or PAO symbols on the packaging.
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Generally, most skincare products are safe for six months to a year, with exceptions for eye products that might have a slightly shorter shelf life. When in doubt, it’s better to dispose of a product than risk potential harm. Remember, your skin’s health and safety come first.
In conclusion, skincare product expiration is a real concern. Without explicit expiration dates, it’s crucial to watch for signs of degradation and contamination. Keeping your skincare routine fresh and safe ensures that you’re getting the most out of your products while prioritising your skin’s well-being.
- Keeping track of a product’s expiration date is crucial for a good skincare regime – but if you forgot when you first opened something, it’s better to be safe and not risk using it
- Moisturisers and sera can degrade over time, while acne treatments and sunscreen also require close monitoring, according to experts from Penn Medicine and the American Academy of Dermatology