According to BS.CKII Tran Vu Anh Dao - Deputy Head of Dermatology Department, Ho Chi Minh City Dermatology Hospital, people should not continue to use expired cosmetics. After the expiration date, active ingredients may reduce effectiveness, while the preservative system may lose its effect. Products are therefore easily contaminated with microorganisms or change in properties.
This risk is especially noteworthy when cosmetics are used on damaged skin or areas around the eyes.
The expiration date printed on the packaging is not the only sign to assess cosmetic quality. According to Dr. Tran Vu Anh Dao, products can still be damaged if not properly preserved.
Some warning signs include discoloration, appearance of strange or rancid odors, layer separation, precipitation, clumping, changes in thickness, appearance of mold or abnormal spots. Packaging blisters, leaks or deformities are also signs that users should not ignore.
When you notice these abnormalities, users should stop using the product, even if the cosmetic is still inexpired.
Continuing to use cosmetics that have changed color, smell, or texture can increase the risk of irritant dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, red skin, itching, stinging, acne, or folliculitis if the product is contaminated with microorganisms.
With mascara and eye makeup products, the risk is even more noteworthy because it can cause eye infections.
If after using cosmetics, prolonged skin redness, swelling, pain, discharge or widespread lesions appear, users should stop using the product and see a dermatologist.
To maintain cosmetic quality, users should store products in a dry, cool, ventilated place, avoid direct sunlight and high temperatures. After each use, close the lid tightly, limit using hands to take cosmetics in the jar and do not leave the product in a place where the temperature changes continuously.
Users should also not share personal cosmetics. Makeup brushes and sponge need to be cleaned periodically.
Not all cosmetics need to be stored in the refrigerator. Users should only do this when instructed by the manufacturer.
In addition to the expiration date, users should pay attention to the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol, which is usually shown in the shape of an open jar with symbols such as 6M, 12M or 24M. The number indicates the recommended time to use the product after opening the lid.
With mascara, the usage time after opening is usually about 3-6 months. For lotions and serums, users should follow the PAO time stated on the packaging.
In particular, if the product changes color, smell or texture, users should stop using it immediately, and should not continue using it just because the product is still within its expiration date.
