We all have at least a few beauty products sitting in our bathroom that we haven’t used in a while.

But have you ever thought about checking for expiration dates? Yes, beauty products expire too! And using expired products can lead to a variety of issues like skin irritation, acne, and even infections.

Why Do Beauty Products Expire?

Beauty products like creams, lotions, and makeup have a shelf life because they contain active ingredients that lose their potency over time. Inactive ingredients can also break down and become less effective.

Exposure to air, heat, and sunlight can speed up the expiration process.

Expiration dates on beauty products indicate the point after which the product is no longer effective and potentially harmful to use. To find the expiration date, look for the symbol of an open jar with a number and letter on the packaging.

For example, “12M” means the product should be used within 12 months of opening.

What Happens if You Use Expired Beauty Products?

Using expired beauty products can have negative consequences on your skin and overall health. Here are some issues you may experience:.

Skin Irritation and Allergic Reactions

Expired products contain bacteria that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Old makeup products can also accumulate bacteria and lead to eye infections and pink eye.

Acne and Breakouts

Expired products may contain expired or ineffective active ingredients that can clog pores and lead to acne and breakouts. Using old makeup brushes can also be a source of bacteria and cause breakouts.

Reduced Effectiveness

As mentioned, expired beauty products lose their potency and become less effective. So if you’re using an expired sunscreen, for example, you’re not getting the sun protection you need.

How to Properly Store Beauty Products?

Properly storing your beauty products can extend their shelf life and effectiveness. Here are some tips to follow:.

Keep Products in a Cool, Dry Place

Heat and humidity can cause products to break down and expire faster. Keep your products in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Avoid Contamination

Be sure to wash your hands before applying any products and avoid dipping your fingers into creams and lotions. Consider using applicators or spatulas to minimize contamination, especially with jars of products.

Close Lids Tightly

Exposure to air can cause the ingredients to break down and lose effectiveness. Close all lids tightly to prevent air from getting into the product.

When to Replace Beauty Products?

It’s important to always check the expiration date on your beauty products. But if you can’t find the date or don’t remember when you opened the product, here are some general guidelines to follow:.

Creams and Lotions

Face and body creams, lotions, and moisturizers should be replaced every six months to a year. If the product has changed in color, smell, or consistency, throw it away.

Mascara and Eyeliner

Mascara and eyeliner should be replaced every three months. If they dry out or begin to smell, throw them away. Also, avoid sharing these products to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Foundation and Concealer

Foundation and concealer should be replaced every six months to a year. If they become separated or dry out, throw them away.

Lipstick and Lip Gloss

Lipstick and lip gloss should be replaced every two years. If they have changed in color or consistency, throw them away. Also, avoid sharing these products.

Conclusion

Don’t take chances with expired beauty products. Not only are they less effective, but they can also be harmful to your skin and overall health. Always check the expiration date on your products and properly store them for maximum effectiveness.