We’ve all been there. Opened the bathroom cupboard and dusted off a skincare product we bought months ago (or received a free sample of) and wondered…. Is this still good to use?
Here’s my hot tip…. if you can't remember how long that bottle has been in your cupboard - it’s probably not wise to use it. Here is a list of the most popular skincare products and how long you can expect them to last.
Cleansers should be replaced every six months. If you use a cream cleanser, it could last longer, but if you use something like a gel cleanser, it may need to be switched out sooner because the preservatives can break down quicker in water-based formulas. When bacteria builds up on your cleanser, it can lead to skin irritation, acne flare-ups, and other skin issues. It’s important to check for signs of discolouration or changes in scent or texture that could indicate bacteria growth and replace the product if necessary.
Serums and moisturizers typically have an expiration date printed on the package which will give you an indication of how long they will last after they are opened. Serums tend to have a shorter shelf life than moisturizers since they contain active ingredients that can degrade over time. Generally speaking, serums should be replaced every 6-12 months while moisturizers can last up to 12 months when stored correctly in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight.
Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine because it helps protect against damaging UV rays from the sun which can lead to premature aging. Sunscreens always have expiration dates printed on them and this is the one product you don’t want to risk.
Taking care of your skin is essential for maintaining a youthful and healthy complexion but knowing when it's time to switch out your old skincare products for new ones is just as important. Make sure that you check expiration dates when applicable and watch out for signs of discolouration or changes in scent or texture that could indicate bacterial growth so that your regimen stays fresh and effective.
Tips For Making Your Skincare Last Longer
1) Clean your tools regularly - If you use any tools with your skincare routine (e.g, sponges, washcloths, cotton pads), make sure to clean them regularly with warm water and soap or gentle cleansers so they don’t become breeding grounds for bacteria which can cause breakouts or other skin issues.
2) Store in a cool place - Keeping your products in a cool place, such as the fridge or bathroom cabinet away from the shower can help them last longer since heat and humidity can cause them to degrade faster than normal.
3) Don’t share your products - Sharing beauty tools can spread germs and bacteria which can lead to skin irritation or infections so it’s best not to share your products with anyone else.
4) Pay attention to expiration dates - Not all products have expiration dates but if yours does, pay close attention to it as expired skincare won’t work as well and could even cause harm if used after its expiration date has passed.
5) Dispose of any leftover product - If you have any leftover product that is past its expiration date or looks strange in any way (e.g., changes colour or texture), discard it immediately as using it could potentially cause harm or irritation.
There are many contributing factors when it comes to keeping your skincare protected. Temperature, time, humidity, physical stress, and other environmental parameters will all play a part in the longevity of your products. It will also depend on the type of product and the packaging. If in doubt…. Throw it out!
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