A new study, conducted by Spa Seekers, has revealed that over 40 percent of people are using expired skincare and makeup products.

The research revealed that mascaras, makeup sponges and eye creams are the products people most commonly used past expiry dates. Meanwhile, lipsticks, eyeshadow and makeup brushes are the most under-used products in the average beauty collection.

The most common beauty products used beyond expiry

1. Mascara – 43% use longer than expiry date

2. Makeup sponges – 32% use longer than expiry date

3. Eye creams – 32% use longer than expiry date

4. Retinol – 32% use longer than expiry date

5. Micellar water – 26% use longer than expiry date

The study also found that 17% of people use out of date SPF, applying facial sunscreen long after the 12-month shelf life. Interestingly, vitamin C serum (or cream) specifically, was among the top 10 products used after the POA duration, too.  

To avoid increased risk of skin irritation or bacterial infections, the experts at Spa Seekers recommend checking your beauty collection every three months, replacing any products that are beyond their ‘period after opening’.

The full findings of the research can be accessed here