How to tell when a beauty product has expired
The printed date does not always tell the whole story. Here are the signs that a cosmetic should no longer be used.
Short answer: to tell whether a cosmetic has expired, check the printed expiry date, the open-jar symbol (PAO), which indicates for how many months to use it after opening, and look for changes in smell, color, texture and appearance. When in doubt, throw it out. This text is general, names no brands and does not replace dermatological advice.
Two types of deadline
- Expiry date (before opening). It indicates until when the sealed product, stored correctly, keeps its characteristics.
- Period after opening (PAO). An open-jar symbol with a number and the letter "M" (for example, 12M) indicates how many months the product can be used after opening.
Step by step to assess
- Read the packaging. Look for the expiry date and the PAO symbol.
- Note the opening date, with a label or marking, to know when the after-opening period ends.
- Notice the smell. A sour, rancid or different odor from the original is a sign of change.
- Check the color. Darkening, stains or color change.
- Examine the texture. Separation of phases, lumps, drying out, liquid that will not mix.
- Check the appearance: bubbles, mold, dark spots or residue.
- Observe your skin's reaction. Stinging, redness, itching or new pimples after use.
- Consider the risk. Products for the eyes and mouth, such as mascaras and eyeliners, need more care, since contamination raises the risk of infection.
What speeds up expiry
- Heat and humidity, as in the bathroom.
- Direct sunlight.
- Contact with fingers and water, which introduce microorganisms.
- Jars without a well-closed lid.
- Sharing products with other people.
How to store
- In a cool, dry place, away from light.
- Tightly closed after use.
- Prefer tubes and pump bottles, which reduce contact.
- Clean brushes and sponges regularly.
What to do
Dispose of expired or altered products according to local guidance for packaging. If there is a skin reaction, stop use and see a professional.
Counterpoints
Not every expired product causes harm, but the risk of irritation, loss of effectiveness and infection increases. In sunscreens, the loss of effectiveness can be especially important.