Does perfume expire if unopened
Perfume longevity is important—both for the lasting impression it leaves and for how long it stays fresh on your shelf. Just like other beauty products, perfumes have an expiry date and a time when they smell their best.
Each perfume lasts differently. Scents with heavier base notes usually last longer than those with lighter, citrusy notes. Knowing what’s in your perfume can help you keep it smelling strong.
Explore our guide to fragrance expiration and learn how to make your favorite scent last longer.
Does Perfume Expire if Unopened? How Long Does It Last?
How long does perfume last if unopened? Most perfumes have an expiry date once opened, but there’s no specific rule for an unopened bottle. If a perfume stays sealed, it doesn’t get exposed to oxygen, so it usually lasts much longer than an opened one. While unopened, the scent can even become stronger over time. That’s why our experts recommend leaving a new bottle of Creed untouched for a few months before using it, as long as it’s kept in a cool, dark place.
So, does perfume expire if unopened? According to many experts, it shouldn’t. If stored properly, an unopened bottle will keep its beautiful scent until you’re ready to use it.
Does Perfume Expire?
Yes, perfume does expire, but the timing depends on factors like ingredients and when it was opened. Most perfume makers suggest using your bottle within one to three years, but some perfumes can last four or even five years.
Because perfume is exposed to air, it might change over time. According to Amandine Pallez, Bvlgari Parfums’ senior creative director, perfumes don’t lose their intensity but can start to smell sour, acidic, or metallic. This happens when oxygen alters the fragrance molecules.
Some scents are more prone to this change. Citrus and aromatic notes are at higher risk of oxidizing, while woodsy, amber, and leather notes tend to be more stable even after three years. Chypre fragrances with high Patchouli content may also change faster.
Perfumes with citrus notes should be refrigerated to slow down this process.Once a bottle is mostly air, it’s better to transfer the remaining perfume into a smaller spray bottle.
How to Tell If Perfume Is Expired
You can usually tell if a perfume has expired by a noticeable change in its scent, especially in the top notes, and a possible change in the color of the liquid. If the liquid turns a darker brown, it may be time to replace the perfume.
How to Make Your Perfume Last Longer
- Keep Away from Light: Don’t store your perfume bottles in sunlight, like on a window sill. Light can break down the fragrance molecules, making the scent unstable and more likely to change.
- Avoid Heat and Humidity: Heat can also damage the fragrance and change its scent. Try to keep your perfume in a cool place, below 15°C (59°F). It can spoil more quickly in the bathroom due to the heat and humidity there, so avoid storing it there.
- Use It Up: Once your perfume bottle is half empty, the extra oxygen inside increases the risk of it going bad. To prevent this, try to use up the bottles with less perfume first, and store the rest in a cool, dark place like a cupboard or drawer.
- Keep in Original Bottles: Transferring perfume into smaller bottles might be convenient, but it exposes the fragrance to more oxygen, which can shorten its lifespan. It’s best to keep it in its original bottle.
- Store in a Cool Place: The fridge is a good option for storing perfume, but be mindful if the door is frequently opened, as light can still get in. Wrapping the bottle in aluminum foil or even placing it in the freezer can help maintain its quality. Most perfumes won’t freeze due to the alcohol content, and the cooler temperature can feel refreshing when you apply it.
Is It Safe to Use Expired Perfume?
It depends. Certain out-of-date fragrances may cause skin irritation or even discolor your clothing. To be safe, do a patch test on your wrist. If you don’t react after 24 hours, you can use it, but with caution. If you’re unsure about applying it to your skin, you can try using the perfume to scent your clothes instead. Spraying it on a scarf, handkerchief, or the inside of a skirt or trousers is a nice alternative.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your perfume helps it last longer. To make the most of your scent, apply it correctly. Avoid rubbing it on your pulse points, as the heat can make the scent fade faster. Instead, apply it to moist skin to help lock in the fragrance and enjoy every last drop.
