Using expired cosmetics can be dangerous for your skin. While it may be tempting to keep products like creams , lipsticks , or mascaras to save money, it's important to understand the dangers they pose. This article explains why it's important to respect product expiration dates, while offering tips to avoid infections and keep your skin healthy . As an expert, it's also recommended to clean your makeup brushes after each use to limit bacterial growth.

The Dangers of Expired Cosmetics: What Does Science Say?

A study conducted by London Metropolitan University analyzed different expired beauty products to identify the risks. The results are unequivocal: cosmetics, once expired, become a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria , such as Enterococcus faecalis , capable of causing serious infections, such as meningitis and septicemia . These results show that cosmetic products, when they exceed their expiration date, can have a significant impact on health.

What Bacteria Are Present in Expired Cosmetics?

The study found six types of bacteria in expired cosmetics , each with different health effects:

• Enterococcus faecalis : can cause meningitis and septicemia.
• Eubacterium : responsible for vaginal infections.
• Aeromonas : causes gastroenteritis and infections.
• Staphylococcus epidermidis : a bacteria resistant to antibiotics, dangerous for people in hospital.
• Propionibacterium : associated with acne and other skin infections.
• Enterobacter : responsible for urinary and respiratory infections.

Although the presence of these bacteria does not automatically trigger serious infections, it is important to take precautions, especially for people with weakened immune systems , such as newborns or people in hospital.

The Risks of Expired Products: A Real Danger?

Although these bacteria are naturally present on our skin, their proliferation in expired cosmetics can cause infections in more vulnerable people. For example, foundations and moisturizers , due to their water composition, are favorable environments for bacterial growth. This is why it is essential to respect expiration dates.

Products packaged in airless bottles , such as Nature Effiscience's Hydrate EFFECT cream , benefit from protection against air and contaminants. This moisturizing treatment regulates your skin microbiota to minimize the risk of skin infections. Thus, once started, they can be used a little more than beyond a year, guaranteeing longer conservation and optimal protection against bacteria.

Cosmetic Shelf Life: What You Need to Know

To avoid the risk of contamination , it is crucial to respect the shelf life of cosmetic products after opening. Here are some average durations to follow:

• Mascara and eyeliner : 3 months.
• Moisturizing cream : 6 months.
• Moisturizing mask : 6 months.
• Foundation : 1 year.
• Eye shadow : 2 years.
• Eye pencil : 2 years.
• Lipstick : 2 years.
• Powder : 3 years.

Products rich in water and oil are particularly vulnerable to bacteria. Therefore, creams and foundations should be used up more quickly than dry products like powders.

The Right Steps to Protect Your Skin

In addition to respecting expiration dates , it is essential to adopt good hygiene to avoid contamination of your products. Here are some practical tips:

• Keep your cosmetics cool : Sensitive products, such as oils and balms , are best stored in the refrigerator, as fats can go rancid in the heat.
• Note the opening date : Indicate the opening date on the package to track the duration of use.
• Wash your brushes regularly : Makeup tools, such as brushes and sponges, should be cleaned after each use to remove accumulated bacteria , oil , and dust . Use warm water and mild soap for a thorough cleaning.

A study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that 93% of brushes and sponges are never cleaned, increasing the risk of bacterial contamination . This can cause skin reactions like irritation or acne, and promote premature skin aging by breaking down collagen .

Impact of Dirty Brushes on Skin: Premature Aging and Infections

Using unclean makeup tools not only promotes breakouts and irritation , but also contributes to premature skin aging . In fact, dirty brushes expose the skin to free radicals , which are responsible for oxidative stress and the breakdown of collagen and elastin . This can lead to the appearance of wrinkles and loss of firmness of the epidermis.

It is therefore important to adopt a strict routine for cleaning your brushes, using suitable products and quality accessories to preserve the health of your skin in the long term.

Conclusion: Preserve Your Skin by Avoiding Expired Cosmetics

To protect your skin and ensure safe use of your cosmetics, respect expiry dates, use well-preserved products, such as those packaged in airless bottles , such as the EFFECT range , and clean your accessories regularly. By adopting these good practices, you will not only protect your skin, but also prolong the effectiveness of your beauty products. Remember that healthy skin starts with good cosmetic hygiene.