Is it weird to ask, does vitamin C expire? Well, everything that has a beginning sure has an ending, and of course, this drug follows too. How can one figure out what it looks like when expired? Do tag along!
Vitamin C is a skincare favorite, and for good reason. It brightens your skin, lightens dark spots, and protects against environmental damage.
But all good things don’t last forever. So, does vitamin C expire? The answer is yes, it does. And taking old vitamin C is like consuming a stale chip—it won’t harm you, but it won’t benefit you much either. Let’s simplify it so you can keep your skin care routine fresh and potent.
Why Does Vitamin C Expire?
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a very effective antioxidant, but it’s also unstable. That means that it degrades over time when it comes into contact with light, air, and heat.
As soon as it oxidizes, it no longer works and can even cause irritation on your skin. This is why most vitamin C serums are packaged in dark or opaque bottles—to keep them away from light.
How Long Does Vitamin C Last?
The shelf life of Vitamin C depends on the product and formulation. Generally:
1. Unopened Vitamin C Products
These can last up to 2 years if stored properly (storage tips later).
2. Opened Vitamin C Products
Vitamin C serums, after opening, typically last 3 to 6 months. Some stabilized products can last up to a year, but always check the label.
How to Tell If Your Vitamin C Has Expired
Mildly expired vitamin C might not be so obvious, but here are a few things to watch out for:
1. Color Change
Vitamin C is colorless or pale yellow when it’s fresh. When it’s dark yellow, orange, or even brown, it has oxidized and is no longer effective.
2. Texture Change
When the serum turns sticky, thick, or separates, it’s time to get rid of it.
3. Smell
Vitamin C will smell slightly, barely citrusy. When it smells funky or metallic, it has expired.
What Happens If You Use Expired Vitamin C?
Taking expired vitamin C won’t hurt you, but it won’t do much good either. Vitamin C degrades over time when exposed to light, air, or heat. Once it expires, it loses its antioxidant function, which means it can no longer lighten skin, lighten dark spots, or shield against damage.
You can tell vitamin C has spoiled if it darkens in color (dark yellow, orange, or brown), thickens, separates, or develops an off smell. Spoiled vitamin C might not be irritating, but it could be less effective or completely worthless. In a few cases, it could lead to acne or minor irritation.
To avoid that, keep vitamin C in a dark, cool place, have the lid tightly closed, and consume it as quickly as possible. If your serum smells or looks off, it’s time to get rid of it and buy a new bottle. Your skin is worth it!
How to Make Your Vitamin C Last Longer
To get the most out of your vitamin C serum, keep your vitamin C in a cool, dark place, like a drawer or cabinet. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, where heat and moisture will speed up oxidation.
Vitamin C will break down faster if exposed to air, so always screw the lid on tightly. The less it sits around, the less time it has to oxidize. Use your vitamin C serum daily or every other day.
Lastly, if you don’t use vitamin C on a regular basis, buy a smaller bottle so you can use it up before it expires.
What to Do If Your Vitamin C Expires
If your vitamin C serum has expired, don’t panic. Here’s what to do instead:
1. Toss It
If it’s lost its color, texture, or smell, it’s time to say goodbye.
2. Recycle the Bottle
Many skincare brands use recyclable packaging, so check the label and recycle accordingly.
3. Repurchase
Treat yourself to a fresh bottle of vitamin C and get your skincare routine back on track.
The Truth About Vitamin C and an Expiry Date
Yes, vitamin C expires. Keep it stored appropriately to preserve effectiveness, use it regularly, and be on the lookout for any signs of oxidation. New vitamin C is such a game-changer for your skin, so don’t let your serum go to waste. Your bright, glowing skin will thank you!
Vitamin C works even better when paired with sunscreen. It boosts the sun protection and helps prevent sun damage. Apply vitamin C after cleansing and toning but before moisturizing.
This allows it to absorb properly into your skin. If you’re new to vitamin C, start with a lower concentration (around 10%) to avoid irritation.
Final Thoughts
Vitamin C is a skincare rockstar, but it doesn’t live forever. By knowing how to store it, how to tell if it’s expired, and how to use it appropriately, you can get the most out of this powerful ingredient.
Do not apply vitamin C with benzoyl peroxide or retinoid-containing products at the same time as they will neutralize or irritate one another.
So, keep your serum in line, and when in doubt, replace it. Your skin deserves the best, and fresh vitamin C is the way to go!
