Make sure to leave some space in your fridge for your retinol and vitamin C skincare, as these antioxidants can degrade much quicker and become unstable when exposed to heat and sunlight. Storing these products in the fridge keeps the formulas stable and helps with preservation.
Note: Once opened, this formula should be refrigerated and used within a three-month period. Caution: Retinoids can make the skin more sensitive to UV radiation.
Can you put retinol in the fridge? Just like vitamin C is beneficial but temperamental, since it oxidizes faster than other ingredients, retinol is another one to store in the fridge. Cooler temperatures will preserve the shelf-life plus keep ingredients as potent as possible for as long as possible.
Anti-aging products with ingredients like retinol, glycolic acid and vitamin C can break down quickly and typically last nine months to one year, depending on how they're dispensed.
Oil-based products, including facial oils and makeup, should never be refrigerated. The cold temperatures can cause these products to harden and make them unusable. Clay products, like clay masks, shouldn't be placed in the fridge.
Retinol and vitamin C products
Make sure to leave some space in your fridge for your retinol and vitamin C skincare, as these antioxidants can degrade much quicker and become unstable when exposed to heat and sunlight. Storing these products in the fridge keeps the formulas stable and helps with preservation.
Serums. Vitamin C serum will benefit from being stored in the fridge to avoid oxidation and extend its shelf life. Other serums like Hyaluronic Acid can be kept chilled to amplify their soothing benefits, especially on sensitive skin.
Retinol, around six months. Mascara, around three months.
Dr Dhillon reveals, “Retinol or products containing acids are important to check regularly. If they become destabilised they can be extra harsh on the skin unnecessarily.” To know whether or not your products are safe, check for musky smells and yellowing, advises Dr Dhillon.
Is it safe to use retinol every day? For most people, yes — once your skin is used to it, that is. That said, there are some people who may not want to use it frequently or at all.
Retinol (leave to absorb for 10-20 minutes)
“It is important to leave a 10-20 minute wait time before applying the next product. Retinols are powerful antioxidants and it is important to allow it to fully absorb if you want to avoid your skin becoming sensitive,” says Dr Liakas.
Fridges are great for preserving hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C, and retinol, so if any of your serums are based on those ingredients, you may want to give them a trial in your fridge.
Should you use retinol under your eyes? Yes, definitely. While it is true that retinol – a form of vitamin A – is a powerful ingredient and the skin under your eyes is delicate, there's no reason why you should miss out on the amazing benefits of retinol.
Regardless of your skin type or which product you use first, a layer of moisturizer should always be applied after retinoids.
Retin A and Retinols expiration
When it comes to expiration dates, Retinol A and Retinols typically have an expiration date of two years after the manufacturing date.
The Ordinary Retinol & Retinoids should be kept in the fridge.
Retinol works for acne by preventing clogged pores. You may still see pimples for the first couple of months of treatment – your skin might even look worse (this is sometimes referred to as the retinol purge). But if you stick with it, you'll see clearer skin.
No, you should not use retinol that is past its expiration date. Not only will not work as well as it should but also there is no telling the repercussions expired products can have on your skin.
Store in the refrigerator.
Hyaluronic acid is best if they're looking to moisturize dry skin, while retinol works better by encouraging better skin by boosting collagen production. They have several benefits that can work in tandem for better results, though patients need to be careful with the exact formulations they use.
The cold helps ingredients stay potent for longer—especially antioxidants, growth factors and peptides—as well as extending their shelf life.” When a skincare label instructs you to keep your product in a “cool, dark place,” a skincare fridge instantly ticks both boxes.
Some products such as The Ordinary Granactive Retinoids/Retinols do require refrigeration after opening, but this is noted on the directions.
This is why most vitamin C and retinoid serums are packaged into dark bottles. To ensure longer product life, these should definitely be stored in the fridge. It won't just make them last longer, but it'll keep them effective for longer, and without a weird smell.