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When it comes to skincare, hundreds, if not thousands of different products are available. One of these products is the Aquaphor Healing Ointment, known to hydrate and repair dry skin, minor cuts, and scrapes. Many people use it for different purposes, and some have even said that it’s a “miracle ointment.” The question that many people have been asking lately is, “Does Aquaphor expire?”
Continue reading to learn more about Aquaphor, its key ingredients, how long it lasts, and if you can use it after the expiry date.
What Is Aquaphor Healing Ointment and What Does It Treat?
Aquaphor Healing Ointment is a popular skin product designed for multiple skincare needs. It’s ideal for dry, compromised skin. You can use it to treat chapped lips, minor cuts and scrapes, cracked skin, and dry patches. It is clinically proven to keep skin smooth and healthy.
It’s also been said to help with diaper rash and minor skin irritations. You can use it as a lip moisturizer, hydrating mask, facial moisturizer, minor wound care, etc. The ointment is also fragrance-free, preservative-free, and dye-free.
Does Aquaphor Expire?
Aquaphor Healing Ointment does not technically expire, but the company recommends that you use it within 2 years from the date of manufacture. After two years, the ointment may not be as effective as it once was. However, this is only if it’s unopened and stored at room temperature.
Once you open it, the ointment will last for one year. It can last two years if you store it in a cool, dry place. While its main ingredient, mineral oil, never goes bad, other ingredients might start to degrade after a few years.
Because of this, we strongly suggest that you dispose of any unused product that has gone beyond its expiration date. And also if the product does not appear to be in good condition or has an odd texture.
How Do You Know When Aquaphor Expires?
If you want to see if your Aquaphor Ointment has expired, the first thing to check is the expiry date. If the product does not have an expiration date printed on the container, you should check the lot code. The lot code will be an eight-digit sequence. The first number indicates the final digit of the manufacturing year, while the next two indicate the week of the year.
Other telltale signs of expiration include:
The texture of the ointment. It has probably expired if it has changed and is now more crumbly or lumpy.
Another sign is a change in the scent; if the ointment smells off or different, it has likely gone bad.
And finally, if it has changed colors, it is probably no longer suitable. If you notice any of these changes, it is best to discard the ointment and get a new one.
Can You Use Expired Aquaphor?
Technically, you can use expired Aquaphor, but it’s not recommended. Even though the main ingredient, mineral oil, never expires, the other ingredients in the ointment might have degraded over time. It might not be as effective as it once was and could even cause skin irritation.
Additionally, skin is one of the most delicate organ systems in the body, so it’s essential to be extra careful when using skincare products, especially if they’ve expired, and Aquaphor is no different.
If you want to be extra safe, it’s best to discard any expired Aquaphor and get a new one. This way, you can be confident that you’re using an effective product that won’t cause any skin problems.
Key Ingredients
The Aquaphor Healing Ointment has 41% mineral oil as the main ingredient. Additional ingredients include glycerin, bisabolol, lanolin alcohol, panthenol, and ceresin, and all are included to nourish and soothe the skin.
Mineral oil: It is the main ingredient extracted from petroleum jelly. It acts as a barrier on the skin to help lock in moisture. It’s a common ingredient in ointments and creams. Mineral oil doesn’t have any side effects, but it can clog pores if used in excess.
Glycerin: A humectant that helps the skin attract and retain moisture. It can be derived from natural sources or synthetic sources. Glycerin is safe to use and doesn’t have any known side effects.
Lanolin Alcohol: It’s a type of alcohol derived from lanolin, a wax secreted by animal skin. It helps to soften and condition the skin. It is safe to use, but those with sensitive skin or allergies may experience tingling, itching, and redness.
Panthenol: A type of alcohol that’s derived from vitamin B5. It helps to moisturize and protect the skin. It’s non-toxic and non-irritating, but it can cause allergies if you’re sensitive to it.
Bisabolol: It’s made from the relaxing chamomile plant. It helps to soothe the skin—no known side effects.
Ceresin: It’s available as a mineral wax extracted from coal or shale rocks. It’s used as a thickening agent in the Aquaphor Healing Ointment.
How to Use Aquaphor Healing Ointment?
Use Aquaphor Healing Ointment as directed by the product label or as directed by your healthcare provider.
For the best results, apply a small amount of the ointment to the affected area and massage it until it’s fully absorbed. You can apply it as often as needed, but be sure to use it sparingly if you have sensitive skin.
Apply the ointment on the skin only; avoid sensitive areas such as the eyes, nose, mouth, and vaginal areas. If you accidentally get some in your eyes, immediately rinse them out with water.
Do not use it on deep puncture wounds, serious burns, or dog bites, as it can trap bacteria and lead to infection. If you’re using Aquaphor on a baby, avoid their diaper area as much as possible to prevent the ointment from getting into their diapers and causing irritation.
Aquaphor can be used on all skin types, but if you have any concerns, speak to your healthcare provider before using it. We’ve compared two well-known brands in our article entitled “CeraVe vs Cetaphil.” If you are interested in this topic, you can click the link.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment Side Effects
Aquaphor Healing Ointment is generally safe to use. However, it can lead to clogged pores, the most common side effect, if used excessively.
Some people may also be allergic to lanolin alcohol, which can cause irritation, tingling, itching, and redness in rare cases.
It can cause an infection if used over cuts, scrapes, or burns that were not cleaned properly, as it can trap dirt and germs inside the wound. Another thing; when used over burns, it might increase the redness and pain as it traps heat inside the wound.
If you experience any side effects, stop using Aquaphor Healing Ointment and speak to your healthcare provider. Another thing is, if you have any concerns about using Aquaphor Healing Ointment, talk to your doctor or dermatologist.
FAQs - Does Aquaphor Expire?
What happens if you use expired ointment?
If you use an expired Aquaphor Healing Ointment, it might not work as well or might not work at all. Additionally, it might cause other issues such as skin irritation, rashes, or other allergic reactions.
Does Aquaphor Lip Repair expire?
Technically no. However, the packaging does have an expiry date, which is usually 30 months from the manufacturing date.
Can I use expired Aquaphor on my lips?
No. There is no need to risk putting expired Aquaphor on your lips when other options are available. Is Carmex Good for Your Lips? Click the link to find out.
Is Aquaphor the same as Vaseline?
No, Aquaphor is not the same as Vaseline. Vaseline is 100% petroleum jelly, while Aquaphor only contains 41% petroleum jelly.
Is it OK to put Aquaphor on your face?
Yes, on a clean face and apply it sparingly. It will help to lock in moisture and create a barrier against irritants.
Conclusion: Does Aquaphor Expire or Go Bad?
Aquaphor Healing Ointment is a safe and effective way to moisturize and protect your skin. Even though the ingredients may last for years, the ointment does expire. The expired Aquaphor might change color, texture, or smell. Avoid using expired cream on your skin as it might not work as expected or might cause you problems.
I’m a passionate skincare specialist and writer. I have more than 7 years of experience as a beauty, fashion, and lifestyle writer and editor, and I’m extremely passionate about what I do.
