If your soap bar shows signs of mold, it's best to discard it.
Reading labels is extremely important not just for edible products but also for the ones you typically use on your body. Since you already know about the difference between expiry and shelf life, let’s hear from experts about what happens when you use expired soap on your body.
Unlike perishable goods, soap does not “spoil or go bad over time,” say experts. However, its “effectiveness” can decline. In addition, how it is stored and used can also make a difference.
Using expired soaps can potentially cause skin issues, said Dr Karuna Malhotra, aesthetic physician and cosmetologist, Cosmetic Skin and Homeo Clinic. “Over time, soaps can lose their effectiveness, particularly antibacterial properties, and the breakdown of ingredients may lead to altered pH levels,” said Dr Malhotra.
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This can result in skin irritation, dryness, or allergic reactions, especially for sensitive skin. Furthermore, expired products may harbour bacterial or fungal growth, increasing the risk of infections, added Dr Malhotra.
Are you using expired products? (Source: Freepik)
If properly stored, a soap bar may be effective past its expiry. However, the scent may fade with time.
How do you determine if the soap has expired?
To determine if your soap bar has expired, Dr Malhotra said you should look for signs such as fading colour and loss of scent. If your soap bar shows signs of mold, it’s best to discard it.
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To minimise risks, Dr Malhotra recommended using “mild, non-fragranced soaps and discarding products past their expiry to maintain skin health”.
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Dr Malhotra said that for individuals prone to skin conditions such as fungal infections or dryness, “avoiding old or compromised products becomes even more critical.”
Properly storing soap can help prolong its life. Dr Malhotra suggested keeping it in a low-humidity place, which helps prevent mold growth.