Unfortunately, skin care products don’t last forever.
I get lots of questions on this topic, so here are a few general guidelines to keep in mind:
- Dermalogica (and some other companies) uses the “cosmetic jar” indicator. See the picture above…you will notice a jar with “24M” inside of it. This indicates the product is generally good for 24 months after opening. Basically, once you’ve opend it, the product begins to “oxidize”. After that 24 month period (or whatever number is in the cosmetic jar), the product may have deterioration linked to microbial contamination. This “jar” is required in Europe, but many American companies use it as a courtesy to their consumers.
- You will see an expiration date on sunscreens and products containing salicylic acid (common in acne products). DO NOT USE PRODUCTS AFTER THE EXPIRATION DATE! Sunscreens are not as effective after they expire (and you definitely want your sunscreen working in full effect!!). Expired ingredients may cause skin reactions.
- Typically, ingredients ending in “paraben” are preservatives that help products to last longer.
- If you used “natural” or “organic” products, they typically expire quicker…check with the manufacturer.
- As a general rule, if you are cleaning out your cosmetic cabinet, toss anything that you know you’ve had for over 2 years. If the color or smell is off, it’s probably not great to put on your skin.
- Products that require you to dip your finger in a jar to use them typically get contaminated quicker. Products that come in a tube generally last a bit longer. Along the same line, products at cosmetic counters are used several times a day by many people, and are therefore more likely to become contaminated…they tend to expire much quicker.
- When in doubt, contact the product’s manufacturer!
Hope this helps. 
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