These Are the Best Products and Treatments for Preventing Frizzy Hair

Brod Emphasises That If You Can’t Remember When You Bought a Skincare Product, It’s Better to Err on the Side of Caution and Avoid Using It. Using Products That Are Past Their Prime Can Lead to Potential Risks.

The Risks of Using Expired Skincare Products

Brod Emphasises That If You Can’t Remember When You Bought a Skincare Product, It’s Better to Err on the Side of Caution and Avoid Using It. Using Products That Are Past Their Prime Can Lead to Potential Risks.

The Impact of Time on Skincare Products

How to Prevent Ingrown Hairs – and What to Do When They Arise

The Most Accurate Way to Determine If an Older Skincare Product Is Safe Is to Have It Lab-Tested for Bacteria. However, If You Don’t Have a Science Lab Tucked Away at Home, There Are Some Telltale Signs of Degradation You Can Watch for Instead. Separation of Oil and Water, Changes in Texture or Colour, and a Bad or Unusual Smell Are Indications That a Product Has Degraded. If Something Seems Off, It’s Best Not to Use It.

Determining Safety and Effectiveness

The Most Accurate Way to Determine If an Older Skincare Product Is Safe Is to Have It Lab-Tested for Bacteria. However, If You Don’t Have a Science Lab Tucked Away at Home, There Are Some Telltale Signs of Degradation You Can Watch for Instead. Separation of Oil and Water, Changes in Texture or Colour, and a Bad or Unusual Smell Are Indications That a Product Has Degraded. If Something Seems Off, It’s Best Not to Use It.

Making Informed Decisions

To Keep Track of Product Lifespans, Mark the Opening Date of a New Serum or Moisturiser and Check for Any Expiration Dates or Pao Symbols on the Packaging.

10 Make-up Artists Loved by Celebrities, from Kim K to Meghan Markle

Generally, Most Skincare Products Are Safe for Six Months to a Year, with Exceptions for Eye Products That Might Have a Slightly Shorter Shelf Life. When in Doubt, It’s Better to Dispose of a Product Than Risk Potential Harm. Remember, Your Skin’s Health and Safety Come First.

Is It Safe to Use Expired Skincare? How to Check If Your Moisturiser, Serum or Oil Has Degraded – and the Health Risks Associated with Using Contaminated Products

By Maya Lin-Takahashi

• Oct 8, 2026 • 3 min read

Is It Safe to Use Expired Skincare? How to Check If Your Moisturiser, Serum or Oil Has Degraded – and the Health Risks Associated with Using Contaminated Products

Direct Answer • Key Takeaway

Dr. Bruce Brod, a Dermatologist at Penn Medicine, Points out That Some Products Might Display a “Period After Opening” Symbol with a Time Frame for Safe Use. However, This Labelling Is Not Mandatory, and Even If Present, It’s Only Useful If You Remember When You First Opened the Product.

Maya Lin-Takahashi

Consumer Tech & Gadget Reviewer

Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.

Tags: it safe use expired skincare how check if your moisturiser serum or oil has degraded and health