For many perfume or cologne addicts, having a dresser full of your favourite sprays, bottles and balms is a relatable sight. But have you ever wondered if your fragrances go out of date? Can cologne go off? Will my perfume expire?
If you’re looking for the answers to any of these questions, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about fragrances and their expiration dates.
Does Perfume Expire?
Believe it or not, your favourite perfume or aftershave can indeed go out of date. Most fragrances can last between 3-5 years, while others can expire quicker or stay fresher for longer. It all depends on the chemical composition of your scent – a unique formula that reacts differently with every person.
Some of the factors that can cause your fragrance to go off more quickly include:
- Room temperature
- Artificial / natural light
- Humidity
3 Signs Your Fragrance is Out of Date
When perfume goes out of date due to a chemical breakdown, it can cause a range of undesirable effects. As well as losing its beautiful and beloved original scent, it can also create unnecessary irritation or reactions on the skin. Making sure you’re checking in on your perfume regularly is important, so here are 3 signs that it’s probably time to refresh your collection:
1. The Scent Has Changed
This is the most telling sign that your fragrance has expired. Instead of the evocative, sweet or floral scent you’re familiar with, out of date perfumes are likely to take on a more chemical-heavy smell. If they’re made using fats like vegetable oil, it’s possible that they’ll expire faster and lose their scent quicker too.
2. It Looks Different
Deepening colour or enhanced opacity is a sure sign that your perfume is on its way out. Since many fragrances are made using large amounts of alcohol which can evaporate over time, check in on the amount of perfume left in the bottle. If you’re certain you haven’t used that much, this is a good indicator that you probably need to replace your scent.
3. It’s Passed Its Expiry Date
While many fragrances don’t come with an expiration date, some do. Check your bottle or box packaging for batch code or a ‘Period After Opening’ number to find out whether your perfume or aftershave has gone out of date.
The Best Way to Store Perfume for Longer Life
So, now you know your fragrances can go out of date, you’re probably wondering how you can extend their shelf life for as long as possible. Many perfume lovers have extensive collections of luxury scents, so keeping them fresher for longer is extra important.
To ensure your perfume lasts for as long as possible, try:
- Opting for rooms with stable temperature conditions
- Positioning your dresser or stand away from direct sunlight
- Storing the perfume inside a closet if not on a shaded unit
- Avoiding chilling your perfume in the fridge on hot days (big fluctuations in temperature aren’t good!)
- Keeping your perfume in its original container where possible
So, that’s everything you need to know about perfume expiry. If you’re looking for high-quality, scent-sensational perfumes that will stand the test of time, check out our latest arrivals at FM Perfume and join our team of consultants today!