On your packaging, two indications inform you about the shelf life of your cosmetics: the DLUO and the PAO.
The product marked with the DLUO (best before date) on its packaging has a shelf life of less than 30 months. The PAO, on the other hand, corresponds to a limited shelf life of more than 30 months. To help you see more clearly, the best before date is indicated by the words "best before" and the period after opening by a pictogram in the shape of a cream jar.
Please note that each cosmetic product has a different limited duration depending on its formula and type of packaging.
Aside from pure oils, cosmetics generally contain water in their formula and require preservatives to prevent the growth of microorganisms. Conventional cosmetics use endocrine disruptors such as halogenated substances, the aldehyde family, the paraben family, and glycol ethers. Often the subject of controversies such as the paraben crisis, these preservatives are dangerous for health and the environment. Organic cosmetic products have the advantage of not using chemical substances because the specifications specific to this category of cosmetics prohibit the use of certain preservatives. Other solutions are available for organic cosmetics. Cosmebio, like Ecocert, accepts the following 6 preservatives: Benzoic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Propionic Acid, Formic Acid.
While they may not last as long, these organic cosmetics are not harmful to your health. They can have a shelf life of more than 30 months, which is already sufficient. DIY cosmetics have a shorter shelf life than commercially available cosmetics. To best preserve your cosmetics, we recommend storing them in a cool, dry place away from light.
Depending on the type of packaging, cosmetic products can be stored more or less effectively. You can choose products in bottles or pumps, or if your product is in a jar, wash your hands before use and close it to avoid contamination by microorganisms.
If you have thrown away your packaging, you can always refer to this little memo:
Face cream: 9 months to 12 months depending on the type of packaging
Cleansing milk, micellar water and body milk: 12 months
Body oil: 18 months
Sunscreen: an exception, it cannot be kept from one year to the next because its protective factor is lost.
All that's left is for us to wish you good luck in sorting out your bathroom!
Article written by Clémentine