How well do you understand the cosmetics you are using?

A TikToker has shared a disturbing story about getting burned skin after using expired cosmetics. The main cause is bacteria that has accumulated in the product for a long time, leading to a serious skin infection. Although fortunately the inflammation has subsided over time, this is a strong warning to beauty enthusiasts about the risks of using expired cosmetics.

Take a look at your makeup table – is it full of undetermined samples or products you’ve long forgotten about? If so, it’s time to say goodbye! Don’t let your skin pay the price for your carelessness, as expired cosmetics can cause more damage than you think.

Cosmetics lose their effectiveness over time.

Expired cosmetics don&rsquo;t just change in texture or colour, they also undergo a series of physical, chemical, and microbiological changes. First, the main ingredients in the product gradually lose their effectiveness. For example, sunscreen may no longer maintain its original SPF, or the antioxidants may degrade, significantly reducing the ability to protect the skin.
What is even more worrying is that when preservatives lose their effectiveness, bacteria and mold have the opportunity to thrive inside the product. These microorganisms can cause serious problems such as folliculitis, pustules or even skin infections. Especially if it is a cosmetic used for the eye area, the risk of conjunctivitis or keratitis is even higher. This is also the reason why products for sensitive skin always need to be carefully checked for expiration dates.
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-weight: inherit; letter-spacing: 0px;">Studies have found that harmful bacteria can grow in expired mascaras and eyeshadows. That means that even if the product looks pristine and the texture is unchanged, expiration dates are a factor that cannot be ignored.

Distinguish between expiration date and opening date

Many people often confuse expiration date and period after opening (PAO), but these two concepts are completely different.<ul style="text-align: justify;"><li> The shelf life is the period of time a product can be kept on the market unopened, provided it is stored properly. It is the manufacturer&#39;s commitment to the quality of the product during that period.</li><li> The opening date, usually marked as 6M (6 months), 12M (12 months) on the packaging, indicates how long the product can be safely used after opening. Even if the product is still within its expiration date, if the recommended time after opening has passed, the formula may change, cause irritation or lose its effectiveness.</li></ul> So how can you protect your skin from potential risks? First of all, make it a habit to check the expiration date every time you buy cosmetics. Products that are deeply discounted or appear in special promotions may be close to their expiration date, so you need to be especially careful. After purchasing, make sure to use the product within the recommended time. Don&#39;t let your cosmetics be forgotten because of hoarding, and then accidentally harm your skin just because of an expired item!

Tips for properly storing and recycling cosmetics

To prevent cosmetics from deteriorating, store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Many people have the habit of storing cosmetics in the refrigerator to prolong their shelf life, but not all products are suitable for this storage method. Constantly taking products in and out of the refrigerator can cause sudden temperature changes, leading to separation or changing the formula. Moreover, high humidity in the refrigerator also creates conditions for mold to grow. In particular, products with an oil or wax base such as lipsticks and thick creams can freeze, crystallize, change texture and reduce effectiveness when refrigerated. Therefore, it is best to follow the manufacturer&#39;s storage instructions. At the same time, always wash your hands before using cosmetics to limit bacteria from entering. For cream products, using a cosmetic spatula instead of touching them directly will help maintain cleanliness and safety. Although expired cosmetics are no longer suitable for use on the skin, you can still use them for other purposes. For example, body lotion can be used to clean leather bags and shoes, making the surface softer, while shampoo can become a solution to clean the sink or bathroom tiles. However, this reuse is only safe if the product is not contaminated with mold or bacteria. If you notice strange signs of cosmetics such as color change, bad smell or lumpy texture, it is best to throw them away immediately to avoid unnecessary risks! Photo: Getty Images

Why do you need to check the expiration date of cosmetics right now?

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