{"id":1003,"date":"2022-03-21T08:32:02","date_gmt":"2022-03-21T08:32:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.helpyourskin.co.uk\/?p=1003"},"modified":"2022-03-21T08:34:10","modified_gmt":"2022-03-21T08:34:10","slug":"what-happens-if-you-use-expired-skin-care-products","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.helpyourskin.co.uk\/what-happens-if-you-use-expired-skin-care-products\/","title":{"rendered":"What Happens If You Use Expired Skin Care Products?"},"content":{"rendered":"

So, we all know the importance of a good skincare routine, right? Moisturiser, sunscreen<\/a>, make up<\/a> – we make sure it is of the best quality and right for our skin. But what happens if you use expired skin care products? Is it bad for your skin? What will happen – if anything? Let\u2019s find out!<\/p>\n

What Happens If You Use Expired Skincare Products?<\/h2>\n

\"expired<\/p>\n

In general, using an expired skincare product won\u2019t do you too much harm. It may not be as fresh as it once was, but this is not a problem if you\u2019ve got nothing else!<\/p>\n

However, using expired skincare products can cause some unwanted side effects. In general, this is best avoided.<\/p>\n

Beware of bacteria<\/h3>\n

Some expired skincare products can contain bacteria<\/strong>, which can cause you skin issues such as fungal infections, inflammation and skin irritation.<\/p>\n

Generally, this sort of thing is only a problem if the product has been opened – if it is sealed then it can last a good 2-3 years after its use by date.<\/p>\n

Beware of sensitive skin<\/h3>\n

If you have sensitive skin<\/strong>, you should watch out for expiration dates even more closely, because ingredients in the products can change over time.<\/p>\n

Changes in the chemical composition of products can cause skin problems in those with particularly sensitive skin<\/a>, so keep an eye out for expiration dates.<\/p>\n

Beware of sunscreen expiry date in particular<\/h3>\n

The one exception that you should always keep an eye on the expiration date is sunscreen<\/strong>. This is one product that you should always take care with.<\/p>\n

If sunscreen goes out of date, it can lose its efficacy and become watery. You really don\u2019t want to mess around with sunscreen!<\/p>\n

Using out of date sunscreen can contribute to sunburn, and even bigger problems such as skin cancer.<\/p>\n

Expired skincare products, if they are sealed<\/strong>, are often still fine to be used. Just make sure you check the ingredient list to ensure it will still be effective, and keep an eye on it for any changes or bad smells.<\/p>\n

Can Skincare Be Used After Expiration Date?<\/h2>\n

The most important thing to consider here is whether the product has been opened. Most skincare is sealed to keep bacteria getting in.<\/p>\n

If the product is still sealed but still past its sell by date, it will likely be absolutely fine, but proceed with caution.<\/p>\n

If a skincare product is past its expiration date AND it has been opened, you should probably bin it.<\/p>\n

Once a product is opened, bacteria can make their way into the product, and spreading this mixture on your face is not a good idea!<\/p>\n

Products with active ingredients may become less effective over time, so it is best to use these ones well within their expiration date.<\/p>\n

If you open the pot and the consistency looks horrible, or there is a bad smell, bin this product immediately!<\/p>\n

The skin around the lips and eyes, particularly, should be taken care with. Eye skin is very sensitive, and the lips have capillaries that can transmit bacteria to the body.<\/p>\n

It is not worth getting any skin issues because of using expired skincare products, so if you are in any doubt then just don\u2019t use these products.<\/p>\n

What Happens If You Use Expired Cosmetics?<\/h2>\n

Anything that goes onto your skin should be clean, free from bacteria, and preferably within its expiration date.<\/p>\n

You CAN use expired make up, but there are a few things you should bear in mind:<\/p>\n