UrbanUpdate

You’re a grownup now. (If you are 7, stop reading this and go play outside.) You need to start acting like a grownup at home, in your bathroom, by throwing stuff away on time. The sunscreen you stole from your mom’s house when you went off to college and that weird serum your ex-girlfriend made you buy for too much money are both probably disgusting by now. Don’t use them. They are completely ineffective and could cause a legit rash, and we know you don’t have time to deal with a legit rash right now.

For everything else, here’s the deal.

Throw It Out Before 1 Year

•Loofahs and sponges (7 weeks, max)•Acne creams (3 months after opening)•Serums with retinol, glycolic acid, and vitamin C (6 months)

Throw It Out After 1 Year

•Lip balm (if opened)•Teeth-whitening strips•Sunscreen (this is regulated by the FDA and should have an expiration date)•Moisturizer•Eye cream

Throw It Out After 2 Years

•Shampoo (a bit longer if unopened)•Conditioner•Hair-styling products•Shaving cream•Toothpaste•Cologne

Throw It Out After 3 Years

•Bars of soap•Body wash•Deodorant•Mouthwash

5 More Things You Need to Know

•If the product is all-natural or lists water as the first ingredient, it will probably expire more quickly.

•Products with pumps are more sanitary. Products in jars are bacteria cesspools. You can thank your dirty fingers for that.

•Look for a picture of a jar on the back of the product. This is called the PAO—Period After Opening—date. Oblige.

•If you store products in a dark, cool environment (i.e. not your hot, sweaty bathroom), they will last longer.

•If the product is separating, changes color, smells weird, or is dried out, it’s probably expired. Toss it.

Now get out there and be the guy without a rash!

Related Stories for GQGroomingSkincare