Does lip balm expire?

How do you read the date on lip balm?

A printed expiry or best before date and an open jar symbol mean different things. The date gives a calendar deadline. The jar symbol gives the usable period after opening: 6M means six months from the first opening, not six months from purchase. Write the opening date on the container so you can actually use that information.23

In the United States, ordinary cosmetics do not have to carry expiry dates or opening symbols. But some lip balms are regulated as skin protectant drugs, and SPF products have drug requirements too, so do not assume every balm follows cosmetic labeling rules. In Great Britain, cosmetic labels can use best before or period after opening information; check the outer packaging as well as the tube.2345

Should you keep your current lip balm?

1. 1Read the container and packaging for an expiry date or open jar symbol.
2. 2Compare any opening limit with the date you first opened the balm. Without product instructions, use six months after opening as a general guide.
3. 3Check for changes in smell, color, consistency and how the balm applies. Replace a changed product even if its date has not passed.
4. 4If you cannot remember when you opened it, inspect it for spoilage rather than assuming the amount left tells you its age.

Products sometimes need replacing before the container is empty, which is inconvenient for anyone hoping the receipt came with immortality.3

What does expired lip balm look like?

Look for an unpleasant or sour smell, changed color, a newly dry or flaky texture, or separation into different layers. A balm that feels different or no longer applies as expected also needs replacing. These are general cosmetic spoilage signs, not a test that can confirm a balm is safe.13

Old cosmetics can irritate skin, and bacteria or mold in them can cause infections. Stop using a balm that causes a new irritation or rash. Lip products pick up bacteria from the lips; if you develop a cold sore, stop using the affected products and replace them.13

Does unopened lip balm expire too?

An unopened balm still has a shelf life: storage and the type of formula affect how long a cosmetic stays usable. Opening adds exposure to air and handling, but keeping a product sealed does not cancel a printed expiry date. There is no single unopened lifespan to apply to every lip balm. For a specific undated product, ask the manufacturer about its shelf life.14

What if your lip balm has SPF?

Replace expired SPF lip balm rather than relying on it for sun protection. An expired sunscreen may be less effective, and extreme heat can reduce effectiveness before the expiry date. Canadian sunscreens carry expiry dates. Follow the SPF balm's application instructions; general sunscreen guidance is to apply at least 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply at least every two hours outside.6

How should you store lip balm?

Keep balm in a clean, dry place at room temperature, out of direct sunlight and away from hot cars. Keep the container clean, avoid sharing it, and use clean hands when handling a pot. Put the lid back securely after each use, rather than giving the cap a separate address at the bottom of your bag.34