There’s something refreshing about spring — longer days, lighter clothes, and that irresistible urge to declutter. But as you clear out your closet or deep-clean the kitchen, don’t forget about one often-overlooked area: your skincare shelf.
This Earth Month, let’s talk about how to spring clean your skincare routine responsibly. From tossing expired products to making more mindful swaps, here’s your guide to a cleaner routine (and a cleaner planet).
Why Expired Skincare Can Be Harmful
Skincare doesn’t last forever — and using expired products can do more harm than good. Here’s why:
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Loss of effectiveness: Active ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C, and SPF break down over time, meaning you won’t get the results you’re expecting.
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Bacterial growth: Expired products can harbor bacteria or mold, especially if they’ve been exposed to heat, sunlight, or air.
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Skin irritation: Formulas past their prime may cause redness, breakouts, or rashes — especially for sensitive skin.
Tip: Look for the little open-jar symbol on your products — this tells you how many months it's good for after opening (ex:“12M” = 12 months). If a product has changed in smell, texture, or color, it’s time to let it go.
What to Keep, Toss, and Swap
Keep:
✔️ Products you use regularly and love
✔️ Items within their expiration date
✔️ Gentle basics that work year-round
Toss:
✖️ Anything expired, dried out, or separating
✖️ Products that have irritated your skin
✖️ Items you haven’t used in over a year
Swap:
🔁 Heavy creams → Lightweight, hydrating serums (Try: Helande Soothing Restoring Serum)
🔁 Harsh exfoliants → Balanced renewers (Try: Helande Renewing Firming Serum)
🔁 Single-use wipes → Reusable cloths or biodegradable alternatives
How to Declutter Sustainably
It’s tempting to toss everything in the trash — but with a few simple steps, you can reduce waste:
1. Recycle (the right way):
Check with your local recycling center to see what beauty packaging they accept. Many skincare bottles, jars, and pumps are recyclable if properly cleaned.
2. Reuse when possible:
Repurpose glass jars for travel-sized products or small storage.
3. Donate gently used products:
If something is still within its shelf life and lightly used, see if a local women’s shelter or mutual aid group accepts donations.
Spring cleaning your skincare isn’t just about a tidy shelf — it’s a chance to reset, be more intentional, and care for both your skin and the planet.
