Do Shampoo and Conditioner Expire? Here’s What You Need to Know

Let’s face it—most of us have bottles of shampoo or conditioner sitting in the shower that we haven’t touched in months. Or maybe you’re the type to rotate through multiple products, leaving some on standby for ages. At some point, you’ve probably wondered: Do shampoo and conditioner actually expire? Spoiler alert: they do. Here’s everything you need to know about their shelf life and why using expired products isn’t worth the risk.

Yes, They Expire—Here’s Why It Matters

Shampoo in Hand

Shampoo and conditioner, like most beauty products, have an expiration date. Over time, the ingredients in these products can break down, lose effectiveness, or even grow bacteria. Using expired products doesn’t just mean they’re less effective—it can also lead to scalp irritation, dryness, or even a rash. And let’s not forget the gross factor: mold and bacteria are real possibilities.

How Long Do They Last?

Typically, an unopened bottle of shampoo or conditioner can last up to two or three years. But once opened, the clock starts ticking. Most products are good for six months to a year after you’ve popped the cap, depending on how they’re stored. To figure this out, look for the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol on the bottle—it’ll say something like “12M” (good for 12 months) or “24M” (good for 24 months).

How to Spot Expired Products

Not sure if your shampoo or conditioner is past its prime? Here are some telltale signs:

Texture Changes: Is it clumpy or separating into layers? That’s a sign it’s expired.
Color Changes: If it looks off or discolored, toss it.
Weird Smell: An unpleasant or sour odor means it’s time to let it go.

If you notice any of these, don’t try to shake the bottle and hope for the best. It’s expired, and no amount of shaking will fix it.

Why You Shouldn’t Use Expired Shampoo or Conditioner

Using expired hair products might seem harmless, but it’s not a great idea. Once the preservatives break down, bacteria can grow in the bottle. Applying that to your scalp could cause irritation, dryness, or even more serious issues like contact dermatitis.

Hair Washing

Expired products also won’t do what they’re supposed to. Your shampoo might not cleanse properly, and your conditioner might not hydrate the way it should. Essentially, you’re wasting time and risking scalp health for no good reason.

How to Make Your Products Last

To avoid wasting product:

Store Them Properly: Keep bottles in a cool, dry place—heat and humidity from the shower can speed up the breakdown of ingredients.
Use What You Have: Resist the urge to open a new bottle before finishing the old one.
Pay Attention to Dates: Check for the PAO symbol or expiration date when you buy a product.

The Bottom Line

Shampoo and conditioner do expire, and using them past their prime isn’t worth the risk. Check your bottles, watch for signs of expiration, and prioritize using products before they go bad. Your scalp—and your hair—will thank you!