Beauty Is Timeless; Beauty Products Are Not!

Okay, fess up.  How many cosmetic products are buried in your drawers or cabinets that you've had for way too long -- years, perhaps?

We all have probably noticed expiration dates on food products, but currently there is no law requiring such labeling on cosmetics.  Why do we need them?  Consumers need to be protected from potential hazards in out-of-date skin care products.

What are the dangers of out-of-date cosmetics?  How long can cosmetics remain "good" before spoilage begins, whether opened or remaining unopened?  Once this identified timeframe lapses, consumers may be exposing themselves to possible bacteria, which may cause irritation or infection.

The shelf life of a product is the length of time a product can be in a warehouse or retailer's store without spoilage and possible bacteria growth or losing its effectiveness.  The bar code on the packaging may indicate the shelf life and the consumer can only hope the wholesaler or retailer actually heeds this date.

If the product is not past its shelf life, then the home use life span begins after the product's seal is broken.  Exposure to air dictates the countdown of its life span, compromising the product's effectiveness and potential spoilage.  Once the home use life span has passed, it's time to throw the product out.

The "general" guidelines for cosmetics with synthetic preservatives are:

Anti-aging and acne treatments: Three months to a year. Antioxidants are easily oxidized, so be on the lookout for any changes in color. 

Body lotion: Two to three years, particularly if it’s in a pump container. 

Shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel: About three years. 

Bath oil: One year. 

Sunscreen: Check the package for an expiration date. 

The home use life span for mascara is different (and much shorter!) than it is for nail polish.  It's up to you to know when your product was first opened.  How can you remember all these things?  Mark your products!

With our products, we help take the guesswork out for you.  We label all our products with a "best used within 6 months of purchase" because our products are made fresh with botanical system preservatives, so we do not follow the typical guidelines of other products with synthetic preservatives.

Be smart - avoid harming your skin.  It could turn into a costly and very damaging mistake.  Clear out your old cosmetic products.  When it doubt, throw it out!

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