However, what many people are unaware of is that certain kinds of skincare do go off. If you’re still using the same bottle of sunscreen you bought in 2016, you could be putting your skin in danger.
Rhysa Phommachanh, Skincare Expert at Landys Chemist, said: “Using expired skincare can reduce how well a product works, particularly if it contains active ingredients, and in some cases it can cause irritation.
“Over time, ingredients such as vitamin C, retinoids and SPF filters naturally break down, so they may no longer deliver the benefits you expect. As preservatives weaken, there’s also a higher risk of bacterial contamination, which can lead to breakouts or sensitivity, making it especially important to check your products as you refresh your routine for spring.”
It’s important to check your skincare to see if it is still safe to use. You can do this by looking for the Period After Opening symbol which tells you how long the product can be used for. Usually it will say 6M, 12M or 24M.
Rhysa added: “Changes in smell, texture, colour or any stinging on application are also clear signs it’s time to replace it. As a general guide, cleansers and moisturisers usually last 6 to 12 months after opening, active serums around 3 to 6 months depending on the formulation, and sunscreen should ideally be replaced each season once opened. Unopened products tend to remain stable for 2 to 3 years if stored in a cool, dry place.”
If you have unopened products, then they can be stored in a cool dry place for around 2 to 3 years before going off.
For opened products, it’s important to make sure you’re storing them correctly. Rhysa said:“For the best results, store products in a cabinet or drawer rather than on a windowsill or near radiators, and always ensure lids are tightly closed to prevent air and bacteria from compromising the formula.”
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This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
