Skin care products are an essential part of your daily routine for healthy and beautiful skin. However, expiration dates and the duration of use after opening are very important for the effective and safe use of the products. Ignoring these periods can cause irritation, allergic reactions or undesirable results on your skin. Here is everything you need to know about the expiration dates of skin care products!
Two Critical Dates in Skin Care Products
1. Expiration Date:
• This date indicates the last day that the product can be used safely while unopened.
It is found on the packaging with the word “EXP”.
2. Period After Opening (PAO):
PAO indicates the number of months a product can be used safely after opening.
It is usually indicated on the product packaging in a small jar symbol such as “6M” (6 months) or “12M” (12 months).
Expiration Times by Product Type
Depending on the type of skin care product, the expiration times may vary. Here’s a general guide:
Product Type Shelf Life After Opening
Cleansers 6-12 months
Toners 6-12 months
Serums 6-12 months (Vitamin C serums: 3-6 months)
Moisturizers 6-12 months
Eye Creams 6-9 months
Masks (Tubes/Creams) 6-12 months
Sunscreens 6-12 months after opening, usually until expiration date
Peelings 6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Look for these signs that a product may have spoiled:
• Change in odor: A strong, sour or offensive odor.
• Change in color: Yellowing, darkening or an appearance different from the product’s natural color.
• Change in consistency: Separation, liquefaction or solidification.
• Skin reaction: Redness, itching or irritation after using the product.
If you notice any of these signs, stop using the product.
Tips for Extending the Life of Your Skin Care Products
Follow these tips to extend the life of your skin care products and use them safely:
1. Store in a cool, dry place: Humidity in the bathroom can spoil products. Store your products in a dry environment.
2. Protect from direct sunlight: Active ingredients, especially vitamin C, lose their effectiveness when exposed to the sun.
3. Close the lids tightly: Exposure to air can speed up the deterioration process of products.
4. Store in the refrigerator: Vitamin C serums and products with natural ingredients can last longer in a cool environment.
5. Clean use: Remove the product with a clean spatula or cotton, not with your hands.
Be Careful with Sunscreens!
The expiration dates of sunscreens are especially important. A spoiled sunscreen cannot protect your skin from UV rays and can cause burns. Check the expiration date and throw away the product if you notice any color or odor changes.
Minimal and Regular Consumption
Instead of opening too many products and using them all at once, it is a more logical choice to consume the ones that suit your needs in order. This way, you can see the effects of the products before they spoil and use your budget more efficiently.
Review your skin care products regularly and pay attention to their expiration dates. Keep your skin healthy and your products effective!
