Knowing When to Toss Expired Beauty Products

Keeping track of when to replace your beauty products is key to maintaining both their effectiveness and your skin’s health. Each product has a unique shelf life, and while expiration dates are important, many beauty products also come with a Period After Opening (PAO) symbol, which helps indicate how long they remain safe to use after being opened. Here’s what you need to know about checking PAO dates, recognising expired products, and why it all matters.

Why Expiration Dates and PAO Matter

Beauty products lose their potency over time, especially those with active ingredients like vitamin C, retinoids, or acids, which degrade with exposure to air and light. Additionally, expired products can harbour bacteria, which may lead to irritation, breakouts, and even infections.

The PAO symbol, represented by an open jar icon with a number (like “6M” for six months or “12M” for twelve months), shows how many months a product is safe to use after opening. This differs for each product and brand, so always check the PAO label to know when it’s time to replace an item. Skipping this step can mean using a product past its prime, which may compromise your skin.

Shelf Life Guide for Common Beauty Products

1. Skincare Products

Since skincare often includes active ingredients, following PAO recommendations is especially important for effectiveness.

- Moisturisers and Serums: Typically 6–12 months after opening. Active ingredients can degrade, so check the PAO and prioritise using open products.

- Sunscreen: 1 year. Sunscreen efficacy diminishes over time, so replace it annually or check for an expiration date.

- Cleansers: Generally 1–2 years. While longer-lasting, cleansers exposed to moisture (like in the shower) may develop bacteria.

- Masks (in Jars): 6–12 months. Products in jars have more exposure to air and bacteria, so follow the PAO to avoid contamination.

2. Makeup

Makeup products, especially those used near the eyes, require special attention to the PAO symbol for safe usage.

- Mascara and Liquid Eyeliner: 3–6 months. Replace frequently to avoid bacterial buildup near your eyes.

- Foundation and Concealer: 6–12 months for liquids. Powders generally last up to 2 years, but liquids should follow the PAO closely.

- Lipstick and Lip Gloss: 1–2 years, with gloss having a shorter lifespan due to more frequent contact with bacteria.

- Powder Products (Blush, Eyeshadow): 1–2 years. Powders have minimal moisture, but still follow the PAO to keep bacteria at bay.

3. Haircare Products

Haircare products can vary widely in PAO dates. Check each product’s label, as storage conditions can impact their longevity.

- Shampoo and Conditioner: Usually 1–2 years. If exposed to moisture or if the formula has changed, it’s time to replace them.

- Styling Products (Hairspray, Gel): 1–2 years, depending on packaging and exposure to air.

4. Fragrances

Fragrances last longer but are affected by light and temperature changes.

- Perfume: 2–3 years. Store fragrances in a cool, dark place to preserve their scent. If you notice a change in smell, it’s likely expired.

Tips to Extend the Life of Your Beauty Products

1. Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Avoid humid areas like bathrooms, which can break down formulas more quickly.

2. Use Clean Tools: Always apply with clean brushes or spatulas, especially for jarred products, to reduce contamination.

3. Close Lids Tightly: Properly sealed products are protected from air and light exposure, helping to maintain freshness.

4. Check for Changes: If a product’s texture, smell, or colour changes, it may be time to replace it, even if it’s before the PAO period.

Signs It’s Time to Toss a Product

Even within the PAO timeframe, certain signs indicate that a product may have expired:

- Changes in Smell: If a product develops a sour or “off” smell, it’s likely expired.

- Texture or Color Changes: Creams that separate, thicken, or lighten are best discarded.

- Skin Reaction: If a product causes irritation or breakouts, it may be expired or contaminated.

The Importance of Checking PAO for Every Brand

Different brands and formulas have unique requirements, so always check the PAO symbol when using a new product. Some formulas include preservatives that extend shelf life, while others with natural or minimal ingredients may have shorter PAOs. Always follow the label’s guidance and store products as recommended to get the most from your skincare and makeup.