Do skincare products expire or how long can I use a product after opening?


Short Answer

Yes — skincare products do expire, and most are safe to use for 6–24 months after opening, depending on their formulation and packaging.

Why Expiry Dates Matter

Using expired skincare products isn’t just less effective — it can also be risky. Over time, active ingredients break down, preservatives weaken, and bacteria or mould can develop. This can lead to skin irritation, breakouts, or infections.

How to Identify Expiry Dates

1. Printed Expiry Date

Some products clearly state a “best before” or “expiry” date on the packaging. This is a firm guideline, especially for products with natural formulations.

2. Period After Opening (PAO) Symbol

Many cosmetics display a small jar icon with a number followed by “M” (e.g., 12M). This means the product should be used within 12 months of opening.

3. Batch Codes

If there’s no visible expiry date, some brands include batch codes that can be checked on the manufacturer’s website or via cosmetics batch code checkers.

Typical Shelf Lives After Opening

  • Cleansers: 12–18 months

  • Moisturisers & Lotions: 12 months

  • Serums: 6–12 months (especially those with Vitamin C)

  • Sunscreens: 6–12 months

  • Retinoids: 6–12 months, depending on packaging and storage

Signs a Product Has Expired

1. Changes in Smell

A sour, rancid, or chemical odour is often the first sign.

2. Altered Texture

Separation, clumping, or graininess suggests breakdown of the formula.

3. Colour Changes

Vitamin C serums, for instance, may darken or turn brown as they oxidise.

4. Reduced Effectiveness

If you’re no longer seeing results, the active ingredients may have degraded.

How to Store Products to Extend Shelf Life

  • Keep Away from Direct Sunlight: UV exposure speeds up ingredient breakdown.

  • Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Heat and humidity can cause products to spoil faster.

  • Tightly Close Lids: Air exposure can oxidise formulas and encourage bacteria growth.

  • Avoid Dipping Fingers Directly: Use a clean spatula to reduce contamination in jars.

Special Cases

Natural or Organic Formulas

Without synthetic preservatives, these expire more quickly — often within 3–6 months after opening.

Products with Actives

Potent ingredients like retinol, AHAs, and Vitamin C degrade faster once exposed to air and light, so opaque or airtight packaging is preferable.

Skincare in Pump Bottles

Airless pumps help maintain freshness longer compared to jars.

Risks of Using Expired Products

Expired skincare products can cause redness, itching, or clogged pores. In rare cases, bacterial contamination can lead to skin infections. If a product looks or smells off, it’s safest to dispose of it.

Final Thoughts

All skincare products have a limited lifespan, and paying attention to expiry dates is essential for safety and performance. Knowing how to read labels, recognise signs of spoilage, and store products correctly will help you get the most from your routine — without risking your skin’s health.

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