Expiration dates. We’ve all seen them and wondered if they’re real or just a reason for us to buy more product before we actually run out.

Here’s the truth about expiration dates…

Expiration dates are real. Don't use product after the expiration date.

Fact: Expiration dates are real
Every ingredient has a shelf life, and some products have shorter shelf lives than others. But there’s no requirement to place an expiration date on a personal care product unless it includes ingredients regulated by the FDA (such as acne-fighting and sun protection ingredients).

For more information, click here
http://www.smartskincare.com/ingredients/fda/fda-on-shelf-life.html

Fact: Most ingredients start losing effectiveness as soon as you open them
Air, moisture, temperature all influence product effectiveness. Some of the best ingredients are also the most likely to lose effectiveness. Take anti-oxidants for example. Vitamin C, one of the more effective anti-oxidants, is one of the least stable. As soon as it’s exposed to air, it loses effectiveness. In other words, every time you open the product, more air gets in and the less effective the product is.

PAO symbols tell you when to throw away product after initial opening it.

Basically, by the time you reach the bottom of the bottle, tube or jar, the product might not actually do anything. While there’s no law in the US requiring expiration dates, some manufacturers have started to adopt the PAO, or Period After Opening, symbol. It’s a jar with a number and the letter M. It’s a guide for when to replace a product after opening.

Fact: Bacteria and fungus grows over time
Unless you sterilize your hands and product dispenser every time you use it, bacteria and fungus will grow in your skin care, hair care and makeup. Plus, most personal care products are kept in the bathroom, which tends to have higher humidity and bacteria levels because of the shower and toilet.

Use applicators like sponges or brushes to keep bacteria and fungus from growing

You can slow down the growth process by applying product with applicators, rather than your fingers. For example, instead of applying foundation with your finger, put it directly on the brush, sponge or your hand. The same goes for skin care. Don’t ever add water, or worse, your saliva to moisten product or applicators. It’s a sure-fire way to accelerate bacterial growth.

Fact: Preservatives protect against bacteria and fungal growth as well as extends shelf life
Products are that preservative-free or use synthetically-produced ‘natural’ or ‘organic’ preservatives will expire sooner than products that use preservatives proven to stabilize ingredients. If you choose to use organic, natural or preservative-free products, then plan on replacing them every three to six months.

Fact: Toss products that are more than 3 to 18 months old
Mascara and other eye products such as eye shadow should be tossed every three to six months. Liquid, crème or gel products should be replaced on 12- to 18-month intervals. Powder-based products (except eye shadow) should last from two to three years.

Sunscreen and sun block also lose effectiveness over time. Toss any sunscreen or sun block by its expiration date, including skin care or cosmetics with built-in sun protection.

Want more guidance on when to keep or toss? Click here:
http://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/makeovers-tips/expiration-dates-beauty-products-10000001573139/