Accidentally used expired aloe vera gel on face after epilating. What should I do?

I used pure aloe vera gel after epilating my face, but I did not refrigerate it as the packaging suggested. It’s been at room temperature for four months, and today it smelled weird. I washed it off quickly, but is there anything else I can do to protect my skin from possible bacteria?

To ensure your skin remains healthy and free from any adverse reactions when using aloe vera gel, follow these guidelines:

Discarding Expired Aloe Vera Gel: It’s crucial to discard aloe vera gel immediately once it has expired. Using expired gel can potentially lead to skin irritation or infection.

Protecting Your Skin:

  1. Gentle Cleansing: Wash your face with a mild cleanser to thoroughly remove any residual aloe vera gel from your skin.
  2. Moisturize: After cleansing, apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to soothe and hydrate your skin.
  3. Monitor for Irritation: Keep an eye on your skin for any signs of redness, itching, or swelling. If these symptoms occur or worsen, consult a dermatologist promptly.

Preventing Future Issues:

  1. Refrigerate Aloe Vera Gel: Store aloe vera gel in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life and maintain its efficacy. This applies to both store-bought and homemade gel.
  2. Check Expiration Dates: Always check the expiration date on store-bought aloe vera gel before use. Discard it if it has expired.
  3. Homemade Aloe Vera: If using fresh aloe vera gel from the plant, store it in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness and potency.
1 Like

After epilating, wash your face with water to prevent irritation, but try not to worry too much. If something goes wrong, just utilize whatever you have to fight it over the next few days.