Does CeraVe lotion expire?

How do you check your bottle?

1. 1Read any printed expiration date, especially on lotion containing SPF.
2. 2Look for an open jar icon with a number followed by M. For example, 12M means 12 months after opening, not 12 months after buying.
3. 3Record when you first open the bottle so you can follow that opening period.
4. 4If neither marking is present, contact CeraVe about the exact product rather than assuming a standard number of months.

In the United States, ordinary cosmetics do not have to carry an expiration date, and the opening symbol is not required either. A missing date therefore does not mean unlimited shelf life. How long a cosmetic stays usable depends on its formula, storage and use. An unopened bottle still needs appropriate storage; opening is not the only factor that affects deterioration.12

What changes mean you should replace it?

As general cosmetic guidance, replace lotion that develops a different or unpleasant smell, changes color, separates into layers, or becomes noticeably dry or different in texture. Water and oil mixtures can separate as they age. Preservatives can also break down over time, allowing bacteria and fungi to grow. Checking appearance is useful, but it should not replace following a printed date or opening period.12

How should you store CeraVe lotion?

• Keep lotion in a clean, dry place at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
• Do not leave the bottle in a hot car. Heat can damage preservatives and speed microbial growth.
• Keep the container clean and replace its cap or lid securely after use.
• Avoid dipping fingers into the product, which introduces microorganisms.

Does CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion expire?

Yes. The same general cosmetic shelf life principles apply to Daily Moisturizing Lotion. Do not assign every bottle a fixed one, two or three year lifespan. CeraVe's US, UK and Canadian versions have different published ingredient lists, and formulas are updated. The bottle's own label is more useful than a photo of a similar bottle online, even if the photo has better lighting.1456

For a bottle still within its labelled usable period, CeraVe directs you to apply Daily Moisturizing Lotion liberally as often as needed. The US and Canadian versions are intended for face and body. The Canadian routine directions place it after cleansing and treatments, with sunscreen afterward during the day. These application directions do not extend the bottle's shelf life.46

Does face lotion expire?

Yes, face lotion can deteriorate just like body lotion. Identify whether yours is a plain moisturizer or includes sunscreen: CeraVe's UK facial range includes PM Facial Moisturising Lotion and AM lotions with SPF 30 or SPF 50. The name AM alone is not the detail to check; look for the SPF marking.13

Replace expired sunscreen lotion rather than relying on its sun protection. Sunscreen ingredients can break down, and heat can spoil sunscreen before its expiration date. If a sunscreen has no expiration date, write its purchase date on the container and replace it within three years. That sunscreen rule is not a three year shelf life claim for plain Daily Moisturizing Lotion.2