Your salon’s beauty supplies will expire one day. Do you know when that day is? Here’s how to tell if your products are nearing their expiration dates.
All good things must come to an end, and this even applies to beauty products. Your salon likely stocks a variety of supplies, from hair dye and nail polish to skincare and makeup. These products have a shelf life, and using them past their expiration date can lead to negative consequences, including skin irritation, hair damage, and potentially even infections. But how can you tell if your salon supplies are expired or nearing their expiration date? We’ve got some tips for you.
Check the Expiration Date
The easiest way to determine if your salon products are still safe to use is by checking their expiration dates. Most beauty products will have a small symbol on the packaging that looks like an open jar with a number and the letter “M” inside. This indicates how many months the product will last after opening before it expires. For example, “12M” would mean 12 months.
If your products don’t have this symbol or the expiration date has rubbed off, you can also check the batch code. This is a combination of numbers and letters that can be found on the packaging or product itself. You can then search for the batch code online to find out its manufacturing date and expiration date.
Pay Attention to Changes in Color, Texture, and Smell
In addition to checking expiration dates, it’s important to pay attention to any changes in your salon supplies’ color, texture, or smell. If any of these elements seem off, it can be a sign that the product is well beyond its expiration date or has gone bad. For example, if your once-white cream turns yellow or your nail polish starts separating, it’s time to toss it out.
A change in smell can also indicate that a product is no longer safe to use. If you notice a strong, unpleasant odor or a chemical-like scent, dispose of the product and replace it with a new one.
Store Products Properly
Proper storage can help prolong the shelf life of your salon supplies. Different types of products have different storage requirements. The best practices for storing lash and brow supplies may include keeping them in a cool, dry place and out of direct sunlight, while you should refrigerate facial products like serums and creams. To determine the best storage method for each product, refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Keep Track of Purchase Dates
In addition to tracking expiration dates, you should also keep track of purchase dates. This helps you decide when to start using a product or when to replace it. Label and organize your salon supplies so that you know exactly when you purchased them and how long they’ve been in use.
Don’t Take Any Chances
When in doubt, throw it out. If you’re unsure whether a product is still safe to use, it’s better to err on the side of caution and dispose of it. The potential risks and consequences of using expired products on your clients aren’t worth taking the chance. Your salon supplies won’t last forever, so make sure to regularly check their expiration dates and other signs of expiration. If they’re nearing their expiration date or have already passed it, replace them with fresh products that will provide your clients with the best and safest experience.