Vaseline is a petroleum jelly-based skin care product that’s been around for years. It’s one of those things you always have in your medicine cabinet, and it’s used for everything from treating chapped skin to soothing sunburns.
In the past few decades, many people have asked, “Does Vaseline expire?”. The answer is yes, Vaseline does expire. However, the expiration date is not the same as the shelf life.
Keep reading to learn more about the expiration date, shelf life, spoilage signs, and storage tips for Vaseline.
Does Vaseline expire?
Vaseline does expire.
However, because it’s made of petroleum jelly, an opened jar of Vaseline can last for up to 10 years after its expiration date if stored properly. An unopened jar of Vaseline can last for a lifetime, but it won’t be as effective as a new jar of Vaseline.
Where is the expiration date on Vaseline?
The expiration date on Vaseline is located on the bottom of the jar.
The expiration date will list three letters followed by a few numbers and will look like this: EXP 10/25 or EXP 10/2025.
If you can’t find the expiration date on the bottom of the jar, you can always contact the manufacturer to ask.
SEE: Does Vaseline Make Your Buttocks Bigger?
Can you use expired Vaseline on your skin?
The answer is yes, you can use expired Vaseline on your skin.
You should always make sure that it hasn’t gone bad though, just to be safe. If your expired Vaseline has gone bad, then it’s not safe to use.
If you accidentally use expired Vaseline that has gone bad on your skin, be sure to wash it out immediately and see a doctor if needed.
SEE: Is Vaseline Good for Your Skin?
Can bacteria grow in Vaseline?
If unopened, bacteria cannot grow in Vaseline because it contains sterile ingredients.
However, once you open a jar of Vaseline, your fingers can transfer bacteria into the jar and contaminate it. The moisture from your fingers can then create a favorable environment for the bacteria to grow and thrive in.
To prevent this, it’s important to use a spoon or spatula instead of your fingers when scooping Vaseline out of its jar. Also, ensure you close the jar tightly after each use to avoid any issues.
When should you not use Vaseline?
You should not use Vaseline if you have cuts or open wounds on your skin.
That is because it can trap microorganisms like bacteria on the cut or wound, causing an infection.
Additionally, you should not use Vaseline if you’re allergic or sensitive to petroleum products. Some people have reported allergic reactions to Vaseline and have experienced symptoms such as hives or swelling.
Finally, avoid using Vaseline on your skin if you have oily or acne-prone skin as it can clog pores and cause acne.
SEE: Get Your Acne-Free Skin With a Facial Steamer
How do you know if Vaseline is bad?
If you’re wondering if your Vaseline is bad, here are a few things you can look for:
- Start by looking at the color of the Vaseline. If it’s changed colors or if the jar looks cloudy, it’s probably not good to use.
- Next, smell the Vaseline. If it has an off odor, it is probably rancid. If you’re unsure, it is best to throw it out.
- Finally, check the texture of the Vaseline. If it is hard, crumbly, or has a waxy texture, it has most likely gone bad.
How do you make Vaseline last longer?
Store it in a dry place
Moisture can cause microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi to grow in Vaseline and cause spoilage. To prevent this, store your Vaseline in a dry place away from moisture sources, such as bathrooms or kitchen countertops.
Store it in a clean container
It’s best to leave Vaseline in its original container. But if for any reason you want to transfer it to a different container, be sure to clean the new container thoroughly before adding the Vaseline.
Keep it away from sunlight and heat
Sunlight and heat can change the consistency of your Vaseline, making it thinner than usual. To prevent this, keep your Vaseline away from sunlight and heat sources such as windows or oven tops.
Use a spoon or spatula
As I mentioned earlier, your fingers can introduce bacteria into your Vaseline, causing spoilage. To prevent this from happening, always use a spatula or spoon to scoop out the Vaseline and close the lid tightly after use.
What should you do with old Vaseline?
Use it as an eye makeup remover
Vaseline is a great choice for an eye makeup remover. Just put some on a cotton pad and rub the cotton pad on your eye for a few minutes. This will help remove makeup from your eye area and moisturize it at the same time.
Use it to clean your favorite combs
You can use Vaseline as an all-purpose cleaner for hard-to-clean combs or brushes. Simply rub it into your comb or brush and then rinse it vigorously until you’ve removed all the hair and dirt.
Use it on split ends
Vaseline moisturizing effects make it suitable for split ends (as long as you don’t use too much). Just apply a small amount to the split ends before you go to bed and leave it there overnight. In the morning, rinse it out with water before applying any treatment.
Use it to treat chapped lips
If you have chapped lips, Vaseline can help soften and moisturize them. Just apply some Vaseline on your lips and go about your day. You should see great results after a few weeks of doing this.
SEE: This Helpful Home Remedies Will Help Cure Chapped Lips
Use it to trap flying insects
If you have some old Vaseline, you can also use it to trap flying insects. All you have to do is smear a piece of brightly colored plastic with Vaseline and hang it in your house.
The insects will get attracted to the bright color of the plastic and when they fly to it, they’ll get stuck in the Vaseline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vaseline a brand name?
Yes, it is.
Vaseline is a brand name for petroleum jelly, and it’s the most popular and widely available brand in the market. However, there are many other brands of petroleum jelly available, such as Aquaphor.
Should you use Vaseline on wet hair?
No, you shouldn’t.
That is because using Vaseline on wet hair can make your hair feel greasy and heavy. Instead, use it on dry hair to prevent split ends and keep your strands smooth and shiny.
Can you use Vaseline when pregnant?
Yes, you can.
However, it’s not always safe to use Vaseline when you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Make sure to consult with your doctor before using Vaseline when pregnant or breastfeeding, as it may contain ingredients that can be harmful to your health and baby.
Is Vaseline good for dry skin?
Yes, it is.
Vaseline is good for dry skin because it contains petroleum jelly, which helps prevent moisture loss. This means that you’ll have more hydration to help prevent cracking and flaking of your skin.
Can you use Vaseline as a lip balm?
Yes, you can.
Using Vaseline as a lip balm is an easy way to moisturize your lips without spending money on expensive products. To make things easier, put Vaseline into an empty lip balm tube, which you can find at most beauty supply stores.
Conclusion
Vaseline does expire, but its expiration date has nothing to do with its shelf life.
If stored properly, an opened jar of Vaseline will last up to 10 years, while an unopened jar of Vaseline will last a lifetime.
To ensure your Vaseline lasts for a very long time, it’s important to store it in a clean container and put it in a dry place. You should also keep it away from sunlight and heat and avoid putting your fingers in the jar.
Thanks for reading.
For more information on Vaseline and other petroleum jelly-based products, check out Africana Fashion.
