Out with the old and in with the new is the motto that we repeat to ourselves every spring. As we are cleaning out our homes and closets, we also need to take a look in the bathroom where we keep our skin care and makeup products to avoid using expired products.  

When it comes to skin care products, it is important to pay attention to expirations dates, especially if the product contains active ingredients. Sun protection ingredients begin to lose effectiveness once they are past the expiration date so your sunscreen may be doing more harm than good. Other active ingredients such as vitamin C begin to oxidize when exposed to air, causing them to become less effective. Oxidation can affect the color of a vitamin C product but a slight change in color does not mean that the vitamin C is no longer effective. Vitamin C products ranging from clear to light amber in color are okay to use. If your vitamin C product has become a very dark yellow color it may be time to replace it.

Cleansers, moisturizers, lotions and body washes usually last up to six months after opening while toners can last up to a year. Because they are free of many preservatives, your natural and organic products may expire sooner than other products. Be sure to check the expiration dates to avoid irritating your skin. 

Your skin care and makeup products have the potential to store bacteria, which aggravates your skin. Bacteria can cause irritation and breakouts and can be especially harmful to sensitive areas such as the eyes. Because bacteria thrive in moist environments, your liquid and gel makeup products need to be replaced more often than your powders. 

Mineral makeup and powder foundations, eyeshadows and blushes are good to use for one year after opening. Liquid and cream foundations or concealers only last for three to six months so you should toss out any old formulas. Your lip products including glosses and lipsticks can last up to one year. Mascara is the makeup product that should be replaced most frequently. Most formulas only last about one to three months and must be stored properly to ensure that they are not contaminated. 

Do you have questions about the expiration dates on your products? Let us know and we can give you answers!