Aquaphor is a popular skincare product used for several purposes, including treating dry, chapped, and cracked skin. The product has been around for a long time and it’s often recommended by doctors.
But what happens when you find an old tube of Aquaphor at the bottom of your drawer? Is it still safe to use? Does Aquaphor expire?
The answer is yes. Aquaphor, like most skin care products, will expire after a while.
In this article, I’m going to answer all your questions about Aquaphor and give you tips on what to do to make it last longer.
What is Aquaphor?
Aquaphor is a skin care ointment specifically formulated to restore moisture to dry skin while helping to nourish it.
It’s made by the German company Beiersdorf Inc. and has been on the market for more than 90 years.
In addition to moisturizing dry skin, this ointment can help heal chapped, cracked, or irritated areas of the skin. It is also a popular choice for diaper rash, burns, and sunburns.
Does Aquaphor expire?
Yes, Aquaphor does expire.
However, because it’s a petroleum-based product, Aquaphor can last for a long time if stored properly.
If you’re curious about when your Aquaphor will expire, it’s important to check the expiration date on its container. If you can’t find the expiration date, the guideline below will help.
How to know if Aquaphor is expired
Check the expiration date
The first way to know if your Aquaphor has expired is to look at the expiration date. As I mentioned earlier, the expiration date should be on the back of the container.
Look at the color
Take a careful look at the ointment and compare the color to when you first bought it. If you notice any change, toss it out immediately and get a new one.
Smell it
Another quick way to tell if your ointment has expired is to open the container and smell it. Aquaphor is fragrance-free, so you shouldn’t be able to smell anything — if you can, it’s time to get rid of it.
Feel for a lumpy texture
A lumpy texture is a sign that the ingredients in the ointment have separated from each other. Throw the product away as it’s no longer effective and can cause irritation or inflammation of your skin.
Where is the expiration date on Aquaphor?
The expiration date on Aquaphor is printed in black ink on a white background and is usually stamped on the back of the product.
It’s three letters followed by four numbers and will look like this: EXP 07/25.
If your product doesn’t have an expiration date, check the label for the manufacturing date. The expiration date is usually two years from the manufacturing date, so if the manufacturing date is 07/23, the expiration date will be 07/25.
How long does Aquaphor last after opening?
Aquaphor can last for up to 2 years after opening.
After this period, the potency of the ingredients will diminish, making the product ineffective.
The best way to maintain the freshness of your Aquaphor after opening is to keep it away from direct light, moisture, and heat.
SEE: Is Vaseline Good for Your Skin?
Can you use an expired Aquaphor?
The answer is yes.
While it may not be as effective as when you first bought it, an expired Aquaphor is safe to use if it hasn’t shown any signs of spoilage.
It’s important to keep in mind that the expiration date on Aquaphor is just an estimation of when the manufacturer thinks the product will go bad. Many factors affect how long your product will last, such as storage conditions and temperature.
NOTE: Before using expired Aquaphor on your skin, make sure to check if it hasn’t shown any spoilage signs. If you’re not sure about whether or not your expired ointment is safe to use, throw it away.
SEE: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying A Moisturizer
FAQs
Why does Aquaphor work so well?
Aquaphor works well because it contains glycerin, which helps to attract moisture to the skin.
It also contains other ingredients that help prevent water loss from the skin, such as petroleum jelly, lanolin, and panthenol.
Where can you get Aquaphor?
You can get Aquaphor over the counter in skin care stores and pharmacies with or without a prescription.
It’s available in tubes, jars, and pump bottles, so ensure you choose whichever works best for you.
Is Aquaphor the same as Vaseline?
No, it is not.
Aquaphor is a healing ointment that contains petroleum jelly and other ingredients like lanolin and glycerin. Vaseline, on the other hand, contains 100% petroleum jelly, which forms a barrier on the skin to lock in moisture.
Although both products can help treat dry, chapped skin, they are not the same thing.
Can you sleep with Aquaphor on your face?
Yes, you can.
However, don’t apply it right before you sleep because it will rub on your pillowcase and become less effective. Instead, apply it 30 minutes before you sleep, so it has enough time to absorb into your skin and nourish it.
How do you make your Aquaphor last longer?
Store it in a cool, dry place.
Aquaphor will go bad faster in warmer temperatures, so keep it in a cool, dry place to make it last longer.
It’s also important to wash your hands before applying this product to your skin. You don’t want bacteria getting into the ointment and causing spoilage.
Conclusion
Aquaphor does expire. But it can last for about 2 years or even more if you store it properly.
To know if your Aquaphor has expired, check the expiration date on the back of the container. If you can’t find it, check for the manufacturing date and add two years to it; that’s the expiration date.
You can also tell if your product has expired by smelling it and looking at its color and texture. If it looks weird, has a foul smell, or lumpy texture, it’s time to replace it.
Thanks for reading.
Visit Africana Fashion for more information on ointments and other skin care products.
