Is It Safe To Use Expired Skincare?

It’s not uncommon to find an old moisturiser or serum tucked away in the back of a bathroom cupboard. The packaging may appear intact, and the product might even look and smell the same. But is it still safe to use?

In this blog, we explore how to tell if your skincare has expired and share simple tips to help keep your products fresh for longer.

Can you use skincare after the expiration date?

The short answer is no. Once a product passes its expiration date, the active ingredients may begin to break down, making the product less effective or, in some cases, potentially irritating.

While an expired product might look and smell fine, what you can’t see is how its stability has changed. To protect your skin and get the results you’re after, stick with products that are well within date.

Finding the expiration date of skincare products

Figuring out when your skincare expires isn’t always easy, especially when there’s no clear date printed on the packaging. To tell if it’s past its prime, look for these few key signs:

1. Start with shelf life

The shelf life of a skincare product refers to how long it stays stable and safe before it’s been opened. This countdown begins from the moment the product is manufactured and packaged, not the day you buy it.

However, shelf life isn’t always listed on the packaging. If you’re unsure, reach out directly to our customer care team or visit their website for guidance.

You can also check the batch code, which is usually a string of numbers or letters printed on the base or side of the packaging. This code can help identify the product’s manufacturing date. If your product has a two-year shelf life but the batch code shows it was produced three years ago, it’s best to let it go.

2. Check the PAO symbol

Once you open a product, shelf life is no longer the key concern. That’s where the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol comes in. This is the small open jar icon typically found on the packaging or outer box, marked with a number followed by the letter M. 

For example, if your favourite serum has a PAO of 12M, it’s best to finish it within 12 months of opening. While the product might look and feel okay beyond that, the ingredients may no longer perform as intended.

3. Look for visual or textural changes

Even if a product is still within its expected shelf life or PAO, sensorial changes can be signs that it’s no longer safe to use. Watch for:

• Changes in colour — Yellowing, fading or darkening
• Unusual or unpleasant odour — Anything sour, musty or different from when you first opened it
• Textural changes — Clumps, lumps, graininess or unexpected runniness
• Product separation — When ingredients split and no longer blend smoothly

What happens if you use expired skincare?

Just like expired makeup can lead to redness, itchiness or tearing, expired skincare can trigger similar reactions.

Common side effects include:

• Breakouts
• Irritation
• Inflammation
• Swelling
• More serious reactions like contact dermatitis or even infections in extreme cases

If you’ve accidentally used an expired product and notice any of these symptoms, stop using it straight away. Give your skin a break, and if irritation persists, consult a medical professional for advice.

Tips to help your skincare products last longer

A few simple habits can help prevent premature product spoilage, allowing you to get the most from your skincare routine.

• Store your skincare products away from direct sunlight, heat sources and humidity. A cool, dry drawer or cupboard is ideal.
• Use a clean spatula instead of your fingers to scoop out products in jars. Avoid double dipping to prevent contamination. Wash and dry the spatula thoroughly between uses.
• Brushes, spatulas and applicators should be cleaned regularly to prevent product contamination.
• Adding a small sticker with the date you first used it can help you stay on top of expiry timelines.
• Using pump bottles or airtight containers helps limit exposure to air and light. This can slow down ingredient degradation and support a longer shelf life.
• If you’re not using a product daily, opt for smaller sizes to minimise waste. Skincare products are designed to be used within a specific timeframe, and smaller quantities are easier to finish while still fresh.
  

Upgrade your skincare routine with Medik8

Now that you’ve got the answer to “Is it safe to use expired skincare?” (it’s not), it’s a good time to take a closer look at what’s on your shelf. 

Give your skin the care it deserves with fresh, dermatologically recommended formulas from Medik8. Our science-backed age-defying range features professional-grade active ingredients that target a wide range of concerns, from fine lines and wrinkles to enlarged pores.

Shop online and enjoy free shipping on all orders over $150. Not sure which products are right for you? Get in touch with us for personalised skincare advice.

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