How to Tell If Your Skincare Has Expired (And Why It Matters This Spring)
Spring is the perfect time for a skincare reset. Switching to lighter, hydrating products, adding SPF, and checking if any of your products have expired over winter. Experts reveal that expired skincare can harm your results, and with searches for “does skincare expire” soaring 106% this past month, it’s the ideal time to spring clean your routine.
Expired skincare warning: Expert reveals key signs your products need replacing this spring!
Rhysa Phommachanh, Skincare Expert at Landys Chemist, comments on the risks of using expired skincare:
“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.”
How to check if your skincare has expired
“To check whether something has expired, look for the Period After Opening symbol, for example 6M, 12M or 24M, which tells you how long the product is designed to last once opened. 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.”
How to preserve your skincare products
“Unopened products tend to remain stable for 2 to 3 years if stored in a cool, dry place. Keeping skincare away from heat and direct sunlight will also help preserve its stability. 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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