Make-up and cosmetics, how to tell if they have expired and if they hurt

If you buy and use cosmetics and make-up frequently, you will surely know that these products also have an expiration date or a Period After Opening (maximum period for use after opening). But really after that date are they to be thrown away? 

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An expiration date is indicated on the packaging of creams, make-up products and cosmetics in general, beyond which the manufacturer advises against using the product, in particular because it may have developed bacteria, lost its effectiveness, consistency and other characteristics that distinguish it. It goes without saying that cosmetics, throughout their duration, must always be properly stored.





In reality, the shelf life varies considerably from product to product, generally the more "solid" ones such as lipsticks or powders resist longer than those that contain a lot of liquids, such as serums, creams or lotions.

On the packaging, the expiration date may be near a small symbol (hourglass) and the words "Use preferably by". But some products instead have an expiration date that starts from the moment they open.

Make-up and cosmetics, how to tell if they have expired and if they hurt

© palami/123rf

This is the so-called Period After Opening (PAO) which concerns products with a minimum duration of more than 30 months. In this case the indication is preceded by the icon representing an open can. Here you will find the guaranteed duration in months of the product after opening, written in numbers and followed by the letter “M”.

Make-up and cosmetics, how to tell if they have expired and if they hurt

©lavaber/123rf

In the case of creams and cosmetics in which the PAO is present, it is good to write a small reminder on the package to remember the first day of use of that particular product.

Can expired cosmetics be used?

But after the fateful date, what to do? Expired cosmetics in some cases can be saved.

The most valid advice, provided by the IKW (German Association of Cosmetics, Perfumes and Detergents) is that of check if the smell, color or texture of the product has changed, even if only partially. In this case it is definitely better to throw everything away.

If the cosmetic has remained as it is, it can probably still be used but it is always better not to, especially if your skin, hair, etc. they are particularly sensitive.


In case of doubts, we avoid the risk, beyond the expiration date in fact the preservatives are no longer guaranteed inside the product, which can lead to the proliferation of bacteria, which in turn can cause skin rashes or allergic outbreaks.


In case the cosmetics cannot be saved, remember to always dispose of them correctly. Read also: Where to throw away and how to reuse old cosmetics

How to make cosmetics last longer

Here are some practical tips to make your cosmetics last as long as possible:

  • Do not open the package until you intend to use the contents
  • Close the package carefully after each use, thus preventing too much air from getting inside
  • Always use cosmetics and creams after washing your hands and use brushes, spatulas or other clean tools for make-up
  • Do not dilute or mix cosmetic products, as this could contaminate them and affect their shelf life
  • Always keep in a cool and dry place

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Source: Oko-test / CosmoDerma

Read also:

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