Expired cosmetics: which products are dangerous for the skin and when to throw them away.

According to ТСН: Using cosmetic products past their expiration date can be harmful to the skin. This can lead to various issues: from irritations to bacterial infections. Dermatologists emphasize that even if the product looks fine, over time it can lose its properties or become harmful.

Doctors from the Chicago Clinic of Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology, Carolyn Jacob and Solomiya Hrushchak, talked about signs indicating that cosmetics should no longer be used, as well as the most risky products after the expiration date.

Carolyn Jacob notes that after the expiration date, products do not undergo safety and efficacy testing, and thus may be ineffective or cause unwanted reactions. She emphasizes that the skin is the largest organ of the human body, so caring for it must be safe and systematic. Using fresh and properly stored products is the foundation of good care.

Four signs that a cosmetic product has spoiled

Dermatologists recommend paying attention to the following changes when checking cosmetics:

• Change in texture.If the product has separated, become grainy, or has lumps, it should be immediately discarded.

• Unpleasant or unusual smell.Smells resembling sour or metallic are clear signs of spoilage. This is especially dangerous for sunscreens, which may not provide adequate protection from ultraviolet rays in such a state.

• Deterioration of effectiveness.If makeup has lost its pigmentation, and cleansing products no longer foam, this indicates a decline in their properties.

• Change in color.Particularly cautious attention should be paid to antioxidant products, such as serums with vitamin C. Darkening or color change of the product indicates instability of the formula.

Products that should definitely not be used after expiration

Experts highlight several categories of cosmetics with increased risk:

• Eye cosmetics.Mascara, liquid eyeliners, and cream shadows containing water can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to styes or conjunctivitis. Solomiya Hrushchak emphasizes that if there was an eye infection, the makeup should be discarded even earlier to avoid re-infection.

• Products with active ingredients.Serums with vitamin C, retinoids, and AHA and BHA acids quickly break down upon contact with air and light, losing efficacy and risking irritation.

• Post-procedure serums and acne treatments.These products are applied to damaged or sensitive skin. If they are expired or contaminated, the risk of infections and inflammations increases.

The doctor notes that sudden tingling, burning, or redness after application is a signal to urgently stop using the product.

How long do cosmetics really last

Under proper storage conditions — in a cool, dry place — cosmetic products can be used up to the recommended expiration dates. However, storage in a bathroom with high humidity and poor ventilation shortens the shelf life.

Skin care:

• vitamin C serums — 3–6 months

• retinoids — 6–12 months

• AHA and BHA — 6–12 months

• moisturizers and cleansing products — up to 12 months

• sunscreen — only until the date indicated by the manufacturer

Makeup:

• mascara — about 3 months

• liquid eyeliner — 3–4 months

• cream and liquid foundations — 6–12 months

• concealer — 6–12 months

• lipsticks — 12–18 months

• powder products — 18–24 months

Experts also note that cosmetics with 'natural' formulas or without preservatives tend to spoil faster, so they should be checked more frequently. Dermatologists recommend regularly reviewing your makeup bag to avoid accumulating unnecessary or expired products that could be hazardous to skin health.

Paying attention to the expiration dates of cosmetics can prevent many inconveniences and help maintain skin health. Proper care and use of products that have not exceeded their shelf life will provide you with a safe and effective daily beauty ritual.