What does the best before date (BBD) mean in cosmetics?
Shelf life of less than 30 months = indication of the best before date (BBD)
If cosmetics contain very sensitive formulations that would not remain undamaged for 30 months, then a best before date must be indicated on the product or packaging throughout the entire European Union. At lavera, we use a sandglass symbol close to the date indication for this purpose. This date indicates until when the product can fulfill its original function and be used safely if stored properly and kept unopened.
Shelf life of more than 30 months = indication of the Period After Opening (PAO)
Why can cosmetic products expire?
How is the shelf life of lavera products ensured?
As already described above, we at lavera natural cosmetics refrain from using preservatives according to the Cosmetics Regulation KosmetikVO. This means that we avoid substances that are classified as preservatives in the Cosmetics Regulation KosmetikVO, such as parabens. Instead, we use alternative methods to preserve our products.
The preservation of our lavera products begins with clean manufacturing in a clean environment using clean ingredients. The latter can sometimes be challenging with natural ingredients because we want to handle them as gently as possible. Therefore, we use natural preservatives like organic alcohol in balanced concentrations, ensuring it supports the shelf life without compromising the nurturing effect of our products or drying out the skin.
Natural essential oils in our products also contribute to their preservation, as they contain little to no water. Without water, microorganisms such as bacteria have no opportunity to grow.
The chosen packaging can also be an important factor in the longevity of a product: For example, a small bottle opening reduces contact with airborne microorganisms, as does a tube whose opening points downward.
-Jars: On the edge of the label or underneath the jar
-Pump dispensers: Underneath the product or on the seal label
-Spray bottles: At the back on the edge of the label
-Deodorant rollers: On the back of the label
-Sachets (masks and samples): On the back, at the lower or side edge of the sachet
-Folding boxes: On the bottom
Unfortunately, due to many different factors, this cannot be guaranteed in every case. Proper storage at moderate temperatures with the lid closed, the environment, the duration of use, hygiene during use, and the frequency of opening the product all influence the shelf life of products.
Tip for optimal storage of your natural cosmetics
Conclusion
You can see that the best before date (BBD) plays an important role in cosmetics. Like food, cosmetics can expire, for example, because their natural active and functional ingredients degrade over time, thereby diminishing their effectiveness among other factors. Incorrect storage (such as extreme temperatures, UV radiation) can also negatively affect their shelf life. Contact with airborne microorganisms, such as bacteria, can contaminate cosmetics, which can also lead to spoilage. To effectively extend the shelf life of your cosmetics, it is worthwhile to follow our practical tips on proper storage, application, and hygiene.
The BBD on your cosmetic product indicates until when you can safely use it unopened and stored correctly while maintaining its promised effectiveness. The determination of the BBD at our company is based on extensive tests to check the microbiological, chemical, and physical stability. In cosmetics, there is a distinction between products with a BBD (less than 30 months of shelf life) and those with a Period After Opening (PAO) indication (more than 30 months of shelf life). At lavera, we rely on natural preservation methods such as organic alcohol or essential oils.