Degradation of Vitamin C Serum and Aloe Vera Gel Blend

Question

I have two products purchased in May 2015 and have observed changes. I would like to know if they are still safe to use and what might have caused the changes.

Stabilized Vitamin C (Natural-C Glycol™) Serum (100g, Sealed Bottle): When first purchased, the color was a pale yellow. Now it has darkened significantly. I used it frequently because I was worried the Vitamin C would degrade, but I'm unsure if I should continue using it. My skin has brightened, and it absorbs quickly (initially oily then disappears).
Custom Blend Gel containing:
- Pure Aloe Vera Gel Moisturizing
- Sea Kelp Bioferment 10%
- Hyaluronic Acid Nano 1%
- Beta Glucan 10%
- WaterLock™ 2%
- Vitamin B3 (Safe-B3™) 2%
When first purchased, this blend had no smell and was clear, slightly sticky/tacky but tolerable. Now, as it's almost used up, it has a strange smell and has turned a light yellow color. Could the Sea Kelp be the ingredient that has gone bad?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Subject: Regarding your recent order inquiry about Stabilized Vitamin C and Pure Aloe Vera Gel blend

Thank you for your inquiry regarding the Stabilized Vitamin C (Natural-C Glycol™) Serum and your custom Pure Aloe Vera Gel blend.

You mentioned noticing changes in color for both products and a strange smell in the Aloe Vera blend, which were purchased in May 2015.

It is normal for some cosmetic products, especially those containing active ingredients like Vitamin C or natural extracts, to change color or smell over time. However, given that these products were purchased over 8 years ago, the observed changes (darkening color in Vitamin C, color change and strange smell in the Aloe Vera blend) are strong indicators that the products have likely degraded significantly.

Degradation can lead to a loss of product efficacy. Furthermore, a strange smell, particularly in a water-based product like the Aloe Vera blend, can sometimes indicate microbial contamination, which could potentially cause skin irritation or other issues.

While you have seen positive results from using the products, the changes suggest they are past their optimal quality and potentially their safe usage period. We recommend discontinuing the use of these old products.

We are glad to hear you like the results you've seen with fresh products and plan to reorder. Purchasing fresh products will ensure you receive the full benefits of the ingredients.

Regarding your question about Sea Kelp being the cause of the change in the Aloe Vera blend, natural extracts like Sea Kelp Bioferment can contribute to color and smell changes as they degrade over time. However, given the age of the product and the presence of multiple ingredients, the degradation is likely a result of the overall shelf life being exceeded, possibly influenced by storage conditions. The strange smell is particularly concerning and could be due to microbial growth, which can affect various ingredients in the formula.

For future purchases, storing products in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat can help maintain their stability and extend their shelf life as much as possible.

We recommend placing a new order for fresh products to continue enjoying the benefits you've experienced.