In their review of the literature describing analyses of liquid-frozen serum, Comstock et al. reported that retinol appeared to be stable for at least 15 years at −20°C and that retinol, α-tocopherol, and β-carotene also seemed to be stable for at least 15 years at −80°C [1].
When you open an OTC or prescription retinol product like Tretinoin or Retin-A, its effectiveness begins to diminish as time passes. Generally, the retinol expiration date will fall between 6 to 12 months after opening, although this can vary depending on the formulation, packaging, and storage conditions.
When it comes to expiration dates, Retinol A and Retinols typically have an expiration date of two years after the manufacturing date. After this period, both products may become less effective, and cause skin irritation or other side effects.
Tretinoin and other topical retinoids should be replaced every 5-6 months. Even if the expiration date is well in the future, once the tube is opened it will begin to lose potency. Hot tip: Use a sharpie to write the date you opened the tube directly on the packaging.
Note: Once opened, this formula should be refrigerated and used within a three-month period.
“Retinol does not have much of a scent when it's within its expiration time, but once it expires it can take on a chemical-like smell.” As a general rule with most skincare products, if the scent changes this can be a sign of expired product.
In spite of what you've read online, retinol products don't need to be refrigerated. Retinol and other retinoids, like many other antioxidants, are sensitive to light, temperature and air. However, stashing your retinol or retinoid product in the fridge isn't the solution to these ingredient challenges.
Myth #3: Quality retinol is bright yellow retinol
But retinol breaks down in sunlight and on contact with air – turning it even more intensely yellow. So, if a retinol product is yellow, it could have lot of retinol, just not be stable, or contain added colorants / dyes.
The retinol uglies can last anywhere from 4–8 weeks. The exact length of a retinoid purge depends very much on your skin type and sensitivity. The amount and strength of your retinoid product can also play a part. Some people experience a purge flare-up for only a few days, and others don't get it at all.
According to Dr. Alpana Mohta, dermatologist, as a general rule most tretinoin formulations will last 6 to 12 months after they have been opened.
Going overboard on the potent ingredient (known to cause irritation and dryness at high concentrations) can dry out your skin and make your wrinkles look more noticeable, says Rebecca Kazin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in Washington, D.C. Avoid this side ...
Our products have been tested to have at least a 3-year shelf life if unopened and stored at normal room temperature. Once opened, our Resurfacing Retinol Serum is good to use for up to 6 months. We hope this helps!
Many retinol serums are water-based but water can affect the stability of the retinol and cause it to become ineffective or potentially irritating. Because this formula is oil-based, the oil helps to protect the retinol and prevent destabilising from happening.
Retinol is one of SkinCeuticals' popular products for fighting signs of aging and improving skin texture. Retinol does expire , usually within 6 to 12 months of opening, and can last up to 2 years unopened .
If you have been using retinol or a retinoid cream, which is a prescription medication, without the prescription of a dermatologist or if you've started it on your own, there is a high chance that you would have overdosed on the retinol and it is causing a lot of dryness or flaking on your skin.
However, when used with retinol, the effect can be too harsh on the skin, and can cause burns or scarring. If you've gone overboard, applying a hydrocortisone cream over the area can help.
As retinol stimulates the flaking of old skin cells, you might experience dryness and skin flaking, particularly in areas where you're prone to dryness. This shedding is a natural part of the renewal process, but it's crucial to maintain a proper skincare routine and protect the skin with adequate UV protection.
Ever wonder why retinol is slightly yellow in color? Vitamin A in its most purest & potent form is bright yellow.
Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most effective acne-fighting ingredients on the market. However, using benzoyl peroxide and retinol (this includes prescription-strength tretinoin) in the same routine is counterproductive as the two ingredients neutralize each other, decreasing their effectiveness.
Retinol can potentially cause dryness or irritation, especially when starting to use it or if you have dry or sensitive skin. Moisturizing helps replenish the skin's hydration and minimize any potential dryness or flakiness associated with retinol use.