How long does moisturizer last?
Shelf life depends on the formula, how you use the moisturizer, and where you store it. A universal rule such as replacing every moisturizer after one year would ignore those differences. US law does not require an expiry date on ordinary cosmetics, so the label can be impressively quiet about the one thing you came to read. The manufacturer is still responsible for making sure the product is safe.1
Look for a Period After Opening symbol: an open jar with a number followed by M. The number tells you how many months the cosmetic should last after opening. Mark the opening date on the container to track its age. Keeping track of opened cosmetics means giving the container a little paperwork, rather than asking the bathroom shelf to keep records. If there is no date or opening guidance, contact the manufacturer for product specific shelf life information.123
How can you tell if moisturizer has gone bad?
Separation, drying out, hardening, or a changed texture are also signs of formula breakdown. These changes can happen as products age or are exposed to temperature changes, sunlight, and air. Do not keep using a changed product simply because the container is not empty or its printed date has not arrived.12
Creams and lotions are prone to contamination by microorganisms, which is why preservatives are added to improve shelf life. Dipping fingers into a product introduces bacteria and fungi. Preservatives can deteriorate over time, allowing those organisms to grow. Bathroom moisture can also make growth easier, while heat can weaken preservatives and speed up growth.14
How should you store and handle moisturizer?
- Read the full label and follow its directions and warnings, including any storage instructions.
- Wash your hands before using moisturizer, especially before taking cream from a jar.
- Keep the container clean and close the lid tightly when you are finished.
- Protect the product from temperature extremes and direct sunlight. Do not leave it in a hot car.
- Record when you open the moisturizer, and check its age and condition before continuing to use it.
Does moisturizer with SPF expire differently?
An SPF moisturizer is also a sunscreen, so its expiry matters for sun protection as well as the condition of the cream. Replace expired sunscreen because its protective ingredients break down and no longer protect you as expected. If there is no expiry date, write the purchase date on the container; sunscreen must maintain its original strength for three years. Replace it sooner if it develops an unusual odor, changes color, separates, or becomes dry and flaky. Heat and direct sunlight can make sunscreen spoil before its expiry date.13
What if an old moisturizer irritates your skin?
Stop using the moisturizer if you develop a rash, redness, burning, or another unexpected reaction, and contact your healthcare provider about care. A reaction does not automatically mean the moisturizer expired: preservatives and fragrances can also cause contact allergy. Suspected contact allergy can be investigated with patch testing.24
When replacing a moisturizer for dry skin, choose a cream or ointment rather than a lighter lotion. Apply the replacement after bathing while your skin is damp to help trap water in the skin.5
