Ingredient Shelf Life, Packaging, Formulation, and Measurement
Question
I have several questions regarding ingredient shelf life, packaging, and formulation:
- When an ingredient specifies "Syringe shelf life 60 days", does this mean it only lasts 60 days in the syringe packaging and needs to be transferred to another container to extend its life? If so, will transferring it extend its shelf life?
- For ingredients in bottles or jars stating "shelf life 90, 180 days after opening", does this mean they must be used within this period without needing to change containers? Or can transferring to a better container extend their life?
- If an ingredient with a "60-day" packaging shelf life is used to formulate a cream or serum, does the finished product also have a shelf life of only 60 days? Or does the finished product's shelf life change?
- If an ingredient remains after the 60-day packaging period has passed, can it still be used to formulate a new serum?
- Does adding a preservative like
Phenoxyethanol SA (Optiphen Plus)extend the product's shelf life, or does it only prevent spoilage before the specified expiry date? - Is it possible to formulate by measuring all ingredients by volume (ml) instead of weighing them? If so, will the total volume be equal to 100 ml if the target is 100 grams?
Answer
Understanding Ingredient Shelf Life and Formulation
Here are the answers to your questions regarding ingredient storage and formulation:
"Syringe has a shelf life of 60 days": This refers to the shelf life of the syringe packaging itself, not necessarily the ingredient inside. Syringes may degrade over time (like the rubber stopper), potentially affecting the ingredient. If you need to store the ingredient longer than 60 days and the syringe shows signs of wear, it's best to transfer the ingredient to a more durable container that protects it from light, air, and heat. The actual shelf life of the ingredient is typically indicated on the product label.
"Shelf life 90, 180 days after opening" (in bottles/jars): This generally refers to the recommended period of use after opening when stored in the original container. Similar to the syringe, if you wish to store the ingredient for a longer duration than specified after opening, transferring it to a container that offers better protection from environmental factors (light, air, heat) can help maintain its quality for longer, up to its actual shelf life indicated on the label.
Shelf life of formulated cream/serum using a "60-day" ingredient: The 60-day period refers to the original ingredient's packaging. The shelf life of your final formulated product (cream or serum) is determined by the stability of all ingredients combined, the presence and effectiveness of a preservative system, hygiene during preparation, and the packaging used for the final product. An ingredient's original packaging shelf life does not dictate the shelf life of the finished product.
Using ingredients after the 60-day packaging period: Yes, if the ingredient itself is still within its overall shelf life (as indicated on the product label) and has been stored correctly (especially if transferred to a suitable container after the original syringe/packaging shows signs of degradation), it can still be used.
Role of preservatives like Phenoxyethanol SA (Optiphen Plus): Preservatives like Phenoxyethanol SA (Optiphen Plus) are essential for preventing the growth of microorganisms (bacteria, mold, yeast) in water-containing cosmetic formulations. This microbial growth is a primary cause of spoilage, instability, and potential safety issues in cosmetic products. By effectively inhibiting microbial contamination, preservatives do extend the shelf life of the final product and ensure its safety and stability throughout its intended period of use.
Measuring ingredients by volume (ml) instead of weight (grams): No, you cannot accurately formulate cosmetic products by measuring ingredients solely by volume (ml). Cosmetic formulations are based on percentages by weight because ingredients have different densities. Measuring by volume will result in inaccurate proportions, leading to inconsistent and potentially unstable or ineffective products. Always weigh your ingredients in grams for accurate formulation.
Proper storage of ingredients and using an effective preservative system in your final formulation are key to ensuring the quality, stability, and safety of your homemade cosmetic products.
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