Is it okay to use expired skincare?Updated a year ago
In short, no.
The periods after opening and expiration dates are often quite conservative since brands would rather err on the side of caution. With proper storage and clean usage, it's very possible that a well-preserved product can last for years beyond the number on the bottle.
That said, your health isn't something worth risking, especially when it comes to products you use on your face or near the eyes.
As certain ingredients degrade, they can release irritating compounds into your expired product, potentially leading to skin irritation. As the preservative system fails, products can also become breeding grounds for bacteria or fungi that can worsen acne or cause skin infections.
Use ‘em up
It's always better to be safe than sorry. When shopping for skincare, always check the expiration dates, and try to use up your cosmetics before they go bad.
Instead of hoarding several of the same product, you can always sign up for delivery programs (hint: we've got that at Protocol) to ensure you always get a fresh batch.
Take this as a sign to use skincare consciously. Understand why you’re buying the products you’re buying, and only pick up as much as you can use within a reasonable time period.