How to Tell If Your Hair Product Has Gone Bad?

No product lasts forever and the same goes for hair products. Although the FDA does not require making it mandatory to mention the expiration date, hair products also go bad after a certain period. The general rule of thumb is if it is an opened hair product, throw it out after 12 months. However, if the hair product is unopened, then throw it out after 36 months. Using hair products before this timespan is always recommended.

Expiration dates vary, depending on product type. Unfortunately, most people forget when they purchased products with no expiration date. Then what do you do? There are a few ways you can check whether hair products like hair balm is still usable or not.

• Appearance- Check whether your hair products appear the same they did when you had purchased them. If you find that its texture has been changed, then it is time to throw it out and buy a fresh product.
• Smell- Does your hair balm smell exactly same, or has the smell drastically changed? The fragrance of hair products is a sign of its potency and freshness. If it has lost its original fragrance, then you should change it.
• Consistency- Has your creamy hair product turned lumpy? Or has it lost its original thickness? If yes, then it has gone bad. Consistency is the key indicator of product freshness. Any change in the consistency indicates that your hair products has gone bad.
• Strange spots- If you have not used the hair product for months, it may develop mold. Therefore, carefully check your hair product for mold growth. And if you find mold, then throw it away!

Final words

These are some methods to check whether your hair product is still fresh or has gone bad. However, if you correctly store your hair products, you can extend their shelf life. Simply, store your hair products in a dark and cool place like a cabinet or cupboard away from the direct sunlight. If it is not in use, ensure it is closed tightly to prevent oxidation. Air contact leads to oxidation, which ultimately leads to less potency. Lastly, do not store your hair growth products in areas with a lot of steam because it may lose its consistency and potency.