I was about to wash my hair the other day when I found one of my shampoos had gotten thick and clumpy. (Not the one pictured.) It was also a darker color than it had been when I bought it.
Because I product test I have a lot of hair products, some that I didn't like and don't use often. Sometimes I give them away, sometimes I wait awhile and try the product again, and sometimes I put them under the sink and forget about them.
This experience got me thinking about product expiration. Do products expire? The short answer is yes. What can be more complicated is figuring out when.
Some products have begun listing expiration dates on them like this bottle of Wen. Some, like Bee Mine, list time frames on their website. Since the FDA doesn't require expiration dates on cosmetics some don't bother. If you have something you only use occasionally don't be afraid to email the company if there is no date on the product itself or their website. Be especially careful with more natural products since they don't have as many harsh chemicals and preservatives.
To avoid funky surprises in your products:
- buy small quantities of items you don't use often
- write the date you open the product on it with permanent marker
- look for expiration dates on the label or website
- seal tightly after use and keep in recommended areas (like out of sunlight)
- use clean hands when dipping into jars
- clean out supplies twice a year
- be especially careful with homemade concoctions. Essential oils will not preserve your products long term. Homemade products usually need to be refrigerated.