Ah, that special time of year. Spring: the time for falling in
love, and cleaning your closet. The time to be strong, and to get yourself
to fall out of love with those purple patent sling backs you bought at
the Barney’s warehouse sale last season and have worn exactly never. But
when it comes to cleaning out old skincare products, you don’t need to be
strong. You need to be ruthless! Seriously, old skin care products
can grow mold, bacteria, fungus and streptococcus–which can lead to infections,
acne, pustules and other lovely conditions. All of which will send you to
your dermatologist faster than you can say ‘But I paid $300 for that jar of La
Mer!’ Believe me, the health of your skin is worth a lot more than that.

In Europe, consumers have the luxury of regulated skin care and cosmetics
packaging. In the US, in most cases, we have to regulate ourselves.
Here are some general tips to help get the most out of your products:

Stay cool. The bathroom is just about the
worst place to store skincare and cosmetics. The heat and humidity create a
dream environment for bacteria. Also be sure to keep all products away from
sunlight. Try the fridge instead—you’ll extend the life of your lotions
and potions, and the cooler temperature will enhance blood flow to your skin
and give your face luster.
Don’t supersize it. Purchase
smaller containers when it comes to skincare, and you’ll end up saving in the
long run: you’ll have the opportunity to actually use all the product before
you have to toss it.
It’s all in the packaging. Opt for
pumps or tubes whenever possible; if you have a screw top product, use a
spatula or q-tip in application to keep bacteria from your fingers out of the
jar.
Keep it clean. Soap—especially
anti-microbial soap—is your friend. Hands, loofahs, washcloths—they all
can carry bacteria and fungus if you don’t do your due diligence.
Trust your nose. Does it smell
funny? Chuck it!
Change is not good. If the
consistency of your product alters, it’s time to say buh-bye.

Here are some general guidelines regarding how long is too long: (Keep
in mind however that these reflect optimal conditions; if you dip your fingers
in your moisturizer after a subway ride or leave your serum on your beach
blanket, all bets are off.)

Cleanser: One year
Actives like AHA’s and retinol can become more
potent over time. Use it or lose it to avoid any allergic reaction.
Serum: Six to 12 months
Many serums contain unstable ingredients to
combat fine lines and wrinkles that lose potency when exposed to air, heat and
light.
Moisturizer: One year
Again, if your product contains actives like
AHA’s, be careful: these can become stronger over time and cause
reactions if applied past the expiration date.
Acne treatments: Two years
These products will often carry an expiration date. But keep them away from
heat and sunlight to make sure your preserving the potency.
‘Natural’ and organic products: Varies
These products tend to use different types of
preservatives than traditional products and may spoil faster, so standard
shelf-life guidelines may not apply. Look out for any changes in smell
and consistency, and consider contacting the manufacturer to find out how long
your product should last.
Sunscreen: Six months to one year
Over time, the oxidation process causes water to
evaporate and the product to break down, which can ultimately make the formula
unstable and ineffective. Store sunscreen out of the sun in a cool place.

To learn more about skin care products, visit WebMD.com.