How long does body lotion last?
Check for an expiration date or an open jar symbol containing a number followed by "M". That number is the intended number of months of use after opening, not after buying. Write the opening date on the bottle so you can count from the right point. An opening date written on the bottle is easier to check than the bathroom cupboard's unofficial archive. In the United States, ordinary cosmetic lotions do not have to carry an expiration date or that symbol. If neither appears, contact the manufacturer for the product's shelf life.12
How can you tell if lotion has gone bad?
As general cosmetic guidance, discard lotion that has developed a different or unpleasant smell, changed colour, separated into layers, or become unusually runny, dry or clumpy. A change in how the product feels on your skin is another reason to replace it. These checks are especially useful when you cannot remember when you opened the bottle; they do not replace the label's stated lifespan.2
Can unopened body lotion go bad?
Yes. Opening is not the only thing that affects shelf life: temperature changes, sunlight and air can alter cosmetics, while heat can damage preservatives. An unopened bottle is not an immortal bottle, despite its commitment to sitting still. Keep any unopened stock under suitable storage conditions too.1
How should you store body lotion?
Use general cosmetic storage habits: keep lotion in a clean, dry place at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, and close the lid securely after use. Keep the container clean. Avoid leaving lotion in a hot car. Bathroom moisture can encourage bacteria and fungi, and dipping fingers into a jar introduces microorganisms that its preservatives must control.12
What if your body lotion contains SPF?
Treat lotion containing sunscreen as sunscreen, not just moisturizer. Discard it when it expires because the ingredients that protect against sunlight break down. If there is no expiration date, record the purchase date and replace it within three years. Replace it sooner if its colour, smell or consistency changes, or it separates. Heat can spoil sunscreen before its expiration date.12
Does body wash go bad?
Yes, the same general cosmetic breakdown principles apply to body wash. Check its own shelf life instructions rather than borrowing your lotion's timeline. Changes in smell, colour or texture are reasons to replace it, and storage conditions affect how long it stays usable.1
