How to store cosmetics?

We learn a lot about how to choose cosmetics – what active substances to look for in cosmetics, what combinations of ingredients give the best results and in what order to apply products. However, few people realize that proper storage of cosmetics can significantly affect their durability and effectiveness. How to do it to enjoy cosmetics 100%?

Why is proper storage of cosmetics important?

Each cosmetic has a specific expiration date, which is most often preceded by an hourglass symbol or the phrase “best used before the end”. For products with a minimum shelf life exceeding 30 months, the packaging should include information about the period after opening in which the product remains safe to use. This information is given in months and marked with an open jar symbol. Most often it is 6, 12, 18 or 24 months. The period after opening is important because after some time the product may lose its properties and pose a risk to the consumer. Of course, storing cosmetics in inappropriate conditions can significantly shorten this time and negatively affect the quality of the formula. Let’s not forget about the health aspect. Improperly stored cosmetics can become a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to skin irritation, acne, and even infection. So how to store cosmetics?

How to properly store cosmetics?

Away from sunlight

Most makeup and skin care products can be stored at room temperature, provided you keep them away from direct sunlight. Radiation heats them, which can cause active ingredients to decompose and accelerate formula degradation. It is best to store most products in cabinets and drawers. However, if you really want to put cosmetics on your vanity top or on a shelf, reach for products in opaque packaging or dark glass bottles that block UV radiation.

In dry places

The bathroom, despite the convenience it offers, is not the best place to store cosmetics. It is an environment full of moisture and high temperatures, two factors that strongly promote the growth of microorganisms and bacteria. Water from the shower or bath can condense on the surface of some cosmetics, especially those whose packaging is not well sealed, and cause mold to form. This applies not only to cosmetics, but also to various accessories, e.g. beauty blenders, powder puffs or brushes. Also take perfumes out of the bathroom, which under the influence of high temperature and UV radiation may change their scent over time.

In the refrigerator

Low temperatures can slightly extend the shelf life of cosmetics because they slow down the degradation rate of many ingredients, such as vitamin C or retinol. First of all, products with probiotics or prebiotics and natural and organic cosmetics, which are most often preservative-free, should go into the refrigerator, making them more susceptible to spoilage.

In appropriate packaging

Proper storage of cosmetics will be easier if you choose products whose packaging makes it easier. Tightly closed containers (airless type) allow the product to be dispensed without air access to the inside of the package, so the oxidation process is delayed and the cosmetic gains longer durability. Packaging of this type is particularly beneficial for products containing active ingredients that are sensitive to the presence of air, including retinol, vitamin C or peptides. Airless containers also help maintain product hygiene, minimizing the risk of introducing bacteria inside. Glass packaging is also a good choice, especially in dark colors that block harmful radiation. Moreover, glass is non-toxic and hypoallergenic, so it does not react with cosmetic formulas.