As South Africans, we are blessed with a plethora of natural skin care products that are not only beneficial for our skin but also for the environment. However, natural skin care products tend to have a shorter shelf life compared to their synthetic counterparts. To make the most of these products, it is essential to store and preserve them properly. In this article, we will discuss how to preserve natural skin care products in a human-friendly manner. Read on to discover some simple tips and tricks to keep your natural skin care products fresh and effective for longer.
1. Keep it Cool
One of the most important factors in preserving natural skin care products is to store them in a cool place. Heat can cause the ingredients in these products to degrade, reducing their effectiveness. Find a cool, dark spot in your home to store your natural skin care products, away from direct sunlight and heat sources like radiators or stoves.
2. Seal it Tight
Properly sealing your natural skin care products is essential to prevent them from spoiling. Make sure to close the lids or caps tightly after each use to keep air and moisture out. This will help maintain the freshness and efficacy of the ingredients in the products.
3. Avoid Contamination
Contamination can occur when bacteria or other microorganisms come into contact with your skin care products. To prevent this, make sure to wash your hands before using any products, especially those in jars or tubs. Avoid dipping your fingers directly into the product and instead use a clean spatula or cotton swab to scoop out the desired amount.
4. Use Clean Tools
It is important to use clean tools when handling natural skin care products to prevent contamination. Wash any tools, such as spatulas or brushes, with soap and water before using them with your products. This will help maintain the integrity of the ingredients and prolong the shelf life of the products.
5. Store in Proper Containers
The type of container you use to store your natural skin care products can also affect their shelf life. Opt for dark, opaque containers that can help block out light and prevent oxidation of the ingredients. Avoid storing products in clear or glass containers, as they can allow light to penetrate and degrade the ingredients.
6. Check the Expiry Date
While natural skin care products generally have a shorter shelf life than synthetic ones, they still come with expiry dates. Make sure to check the label on your products for the expiry date and discard any products that are past their prime. Using expired products can be harmful to your skin and may not be as effective.
7. Keep it Dry
Moisture can be the enemy of natural skin care products, leading to mold and bacteria growth. Make sure to keep your products dry by wiping off any excess moisture after each use. Avoid storing products in humid areas like the bathroom to prolong their shelf life.
8. Rotate Your Products
To prevent your natural skin care products from sitting around for too long, rotate them regularly. Use up older products before opening new ones to ensure you are getting the most out of your products while they are still fresh and effective.
By following these simple tips, you can preserve your natural skin care products in a human-friendly manner. Taking care of your products will not only help them last longer but also ensure that you are getting the most out of the natural ingredients they contain. So go ahead, pamper your skin with these natural treasures and keep them fresh and effective for longer.