Danger Sign: Expired Cosmetics

The expiration date of your cream has long since expired, but it's okay to keep using it, after all, the smell remains the same. You don't even care about this overdone makeup story, even because they look the same after the deadline has expired, right? In your opinion, cosmetic expiry is just a way for this industry to get more money from us, isn't it? If you are part of this women's team, know that you are acting quite wrong. Expired cosmetics can only have one destination: trash.

Because it is bad?

Cosmetics contain, in their composition, dyes, preservatives, perfumes among others and these substances have a shelf-life to act, yes: they ensure that no bacteria and fungi are installed in your product. They are also the ones that guarantee the consistency and the final function of the cosmetic.

? But I never have allergies ??

In fact, any product can cause allergy, either by irritation or sensitization, even though it is expiring, it varies with skin types (some are very sensitive).


But when the product has expired, then it really gets it! The contact of the product with air, skin and mucous membranes favors its contamination by bacteria and fungi.

That way, the chances of you getting red, swollen, bloated, itchy skin are huge. From any of these signs, the most appropriate attitude is to discontinue use of all cosmetics and seek a dermatologist for evaluation and treatment.

With eyes open. And smart nose!

In addition to paying attention to the expiration date, you can avoid many problems by looking at the appearance of the product by checking for consistency, color and smell. Want an example? Shampoo can change homogeneity and decant. Moisturizing cream sometimes gets very liquid, as does the conditioner. In contrast, powders such as eyeshadow, blush and foundation may begin to crumble and become opaque. Sunscreen loses its most important function: protecting against the sun. Then it makes no sense to use it anymore.


Cosmetic ingredients that guarantee their durability only guarantee product integrity up to a certain time limit. That is, after that the way is clear for microorganisms to spoil what is in the bag or in the closet.

What happens to the skin?

The basics are itching and reddening of the skin, but the situation can get worse when the expired product reaches the mucosa of the skin. For example, an eyeliner pencil can cause even irritating infection. You get red eyes and momentarily have poor eyesight. Imagine the danger if you are driving or even crossing the street! Also, something more serious can happen: fungal infection causes serious damage to the cornea.

If there is damage to the skin, such as a pimple, the problem caused by an expired cosmetic becomes even more serious, damaging the existing infection.


When the expired product is used on the hair, the chances of dandruff increase because they no longer clean. Your hair loses its shine and softness.

Perfume wins?

Yes! Typically, they last up to five years when well maintained, away from heat and sun. But when they win, they cause allergies and skin irritations, not to mention the less fragrant fragrance and the more opaque color of the liquid. Another sign is the deposit of foreign particles at the bottom of the bottle, which may be the result of bacterial or fungal contamination.

So it is cool to buy perfumes with transparent bottles and pay extra attention to the shelf life.

Be alert

The shelf life, especially of makeups, is not always clear, they are well hidden. So do not take the product in doubt, ask the seller, so you avoid taking home a product close to winning.

Some tips to make you look beautiful safely:

  • Do not use any products on irritated or injured skin (unless your dermatologist recommends).
  • If skin becomes irritated, discontinue use immediately and seek dermatologist advice.
  • Keep cosmetics tightly closed when not in use.
  • Avoid lending your products, especially lipsticks and pencils. They serve as a vehicle for transmitting viruses, bacteria or fungi.
  • If you borrow a brush, wash it off before using it again.
  • Keep cosmetics out of the sun and heat. Light and high temperatures can kill preservatives that help fight bacteria. For this reason, it is not worth leaving cosmetics for a long time in a hot car.

And remember: At the first sign of irritation, rush to schedule a visit with your doctor.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU USE EXPIRED MAKEUP? 5 THINGS TO DO WITH EXPIRED MAKEUP || MINA ROSLI (April 2024)


  • Cosmetics, Skin
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