Spring is the perfect time to refresh your space—and that includes your skincare routine! Just like old food in your fridge, expired skincare products can do more harm than good. From bacterial overgrowth to reduced effectiveness, holding onto outdated products can lead to breakouts, irritation, or even infections.
So, let’s dive into how to properly spring clean your skincare stash!
Step 1: Check Expiration Dates
Most skincare products have a printed expiration date, usually found on the packaging or at the bottom of the container. This date is crucial because, over time, active ingredients can degrade, making the product less effective. Even worse, expired creams and serums can become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold—things you definitely don’t want on your skin!
Pro Tip: Sunscreens always have a clear expiration date because their SPF effectiveness is regulated. If your sunscreen is past its date, toss it immediately! Using expired SPF can leave your skin unprotected from UV damage.
Step 2: Look for the “Period After Opening” (PAO) Symbol
Not all skincare products come with a strict expiration date, but most will have a PAO symbol—a small open jar icon with a number inside (e.g., 6M, 12M, 24M). This tells you how many months the product is good for after opening.
For example:
• 6M = Use within 6 months of opening
• 12M = Use within 12 months of opening
Once this time has passed, the product may not perform as intended, and there’s a higher risk of bacterial contamination.
Pro Tip: Write the date you first open a product on a small sticker or use a marker on the packaging so you can keep track!
Step 3: Do a Sight & Smell Test
If you’re unsure whether something is still good, trust your senses! Signs that a product has gone bad include:
Changes in color (e.g., vitamin C serums turning dark orange)
Separation of ingredients (e.g., watery or clumpy textures)
A funky or rancid smell
If anything seems off—better safe than sorry! Toss it.
Step 4: Ditch Old or Unhygienic Products
Some products are more prone to bacterial buildup, especially those stored in jars where you dip your fingers. Here’s a quick guide on what to toss:
🗑 Old mascaras & eyeliners (after 3-6 months)
🗑 Lip products (after 1-2 years)
🗑 Anything you’ve used while sick (e.g., lip balm, beauty sponges)
🗑 Products with missing or damaged packaging
Step 5: Clean & Organize
Before restocking your favorites, give your skincare shelf a good wipe-down. Store products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to extend their shelf life. And when in doubt—declutter! Your skin (and bathroom counter) will thank you.
Final Thoughts
Spring cleaning your skincare isn’t just about organization—it’s about protecting your skin from expired or contaminated products. By staying mindful of expiration dates and PAO symbols, you’ll ensure your routine stays fresh, effective, and safe.
Need help choosing new skincare to replace what you’ve tossed? I’ve got you covered! Grab our newest box to give you routine a refresh!
