Do serums expire?

Yes, and active serums go first. Most keep about two years unopened; once opened, many show a 6M or 12M symbol. Vitamin C turns yellow, then orange or brown, as it oxidises, and retinol weakens with light and air.

Unopenedabout 24 months
After opening6 months (6M)

General cosmetics guidance for serum, not a brand promise. A date or open-jar symbol printed on your pack always wins.

How old is yours? Check the batch code

Where to find the date on serum

The batch code is on the bottom of the bottle or on the box. Dropper bottles often carry it only on the box, so keep the box.

Signs your serum has gone off

Serum brands people check most

Nivea Neutrogena L'Oréal CeraVe The Ordinary Garnier Vaseline Charlotte Tilbury Yves Saint Laurent Aveeno Mary Kay Caudalie Elemis Chanel Clarins Medik8 The Body Shop Burt's bees Skin1004 Elizabeth Arden Shiseido Isdin Anua La Roche-Posay

Serum expiry: common questions

How long does vitamin C serum last after opening?

Commonly about three months; follow the open-jar symbol, and stop once it turns orange or brown.

Does hyaluronic acid serum expire?

Yes, but it is more stable than vitamin C: typically 6 to 12 months after opening, as its open-jar symbol says.

How should I store serums?

Somewhere cool and dark, with the cap closed. Heat and light speed up the breakdown of vitamin C and retinol.

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