Are your beauty products doing more harm than good? Dr. Emily Alfonsi, Medical Director at Shade Skin, Skin Cancer Clinic, is urging consumers to pay closer attention to the shelf life of their skincare and beauty products, warning that expired formulas can lead to skin irritation, infections, and even long-term damage.
The “12M” logo, a common but often overlooked symbol on product packaging, indicates the number of months a product remains safe and effective after opening. According to Dr. Alfonsi, ignoring this timeline could be putting your skin at risk.
What the 12M Logo Means
The “12M” symbol represents the Period After Opening (PAO)—a guideline for how long a product can be used after breaking the seal. A “12M” label, for example, means the product should be discarded 12 months after opening.
“Many consumers don’t realise that beauty and skincare products have a limited shelf life after opening,” explains Dr. Alfonsi. “Using expired products exposes your skin to harmful bacteria and degrades the effectiveness of active ingredients, leaving your skin vulnerable to irritation and other issues.”
The Risks of Using Expired Products
Over time, the active ingredients in skincare products lose their potency, while bacteria, mould, and yeast can accumulate in opened containers. Products like sunscreen become especially problematic when expired, as they fail to provide adequate UV protection.
Dr. Alfonsi highlights the potential dangers:
- Skin Irritation: Expired formulas can cause redness, dryness, and allergic reactions.
- Bacterial Contamination: Outdated products stored in humid environments, such as bathrooms, can become breeding grounds for harmful microbes.
- Reduced Efficacy: Key ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, and SPF lose their effectiveness over time.
Protect Your Skin with These Tips
Dr. Alfonsi advises consumers to follow these steps to ensure their skincare routines remain safe and effective:
Track Opening Dates: Write the date you open a product directly on the container.
Store Properly: Keep products in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Check for Changes: Discard any products with altered textures, smells, or colours.
Pay Attention to PAO Symbols: Follow the “6M,” “12M,” or other PAO labels to determine when to dispose of products.
Opt for Pumps Over Jars: Products with pumps reduce contamination and extend shelf life.
Skincare and Skin Health: A Critical Connection
“As the Medical Director of a skin cancer clinic, I frequently see the long-term impact of inadequate sun protection and harmful skincare practices,” says Dr. Alfonsi. “Using expired sunscreen, for example, can leave your skin unprotected against harmful UV rays, increasing the risk of premature ageing and skin cancer.”
Dr. Alfonsi emphasises that maintaining a safe and effective skincare routine is not only about aesthetics but also about safeguarding your overall skin health.
About Dr. Emily Alfonsi and Shade Skin Cancer Clinic
Dr. Emily Alfonsi is the Medical Director at Shade Skin, Skin Cancer Clinic, where she specialises in skin health and cancer prevention. The clinic provides expert skin cancer screenings, personalised skincare advice, and treatment plans designed to protect and enhance skin health.
