January 21, 2011
Beauty products are like any other household possession… you’re most likely using 20% of it 80% of the time. Have you ever wondered if that bottle of bath oil collecting dust on the counter is still effective? Here are some expiration dates that will get you motivated to de-clutter your bathroom vanity and the top of your dresser.
Bar soap - 18 months to 3 years
Bath gel, body wash - 3 years
Bath oil - 1 year
Body bleaches and depilatories Unopened: 2 years; Used: 6 months
Body lotion - 3 years
Conditioner - 2 to 3 years
Deodorant - Unopened: 2 years; Used: 1 to 2 years
Eye cream - Unopened: 3 years; Used: 1 year
Face lotion - With SPF, see expiration date. All others, at least 3 years
Foundation, oil-based - 2 years
Foundation, water-based - 3 years
Hair gel - 2 to 3 years
Hair spray - 2 to 3 years
Lip balm - Unopened: 5 years; Used: 1 to 5 years
Lipstick - 2 years
Mascara - Unopened: 2 years; Used: 3 to 4 months
Mouthwash - Three years from manufacture date
Nail polish - 1 year
Nail-polish remover - Lasts indefinitely
Perfume - 1 to 2 years
Rubbing alcohol - At least 3 years
Shampoo - 2 to 3 years
Shaving cream - 2 years or more
Tooth-whitening strips - 13 months