Ways To Know Your Cologne Has Gone Bad

Knowing if your cologne has gone bad can be tricky, but there are some tell-tale signs to look out for. Firstly, check the scent. If it smells different, has hints of vinegar, or other chemical notes, it's probably expired. Secondly, look at the colour. Has it changed or become darker? This could be a sign that your cologne is off. Finally, check the expiration date on the packaging, which could be a batch code or a PAO (Period After Opening) number. If your cologne is more than a couple of years old, it's a good idea to test it before use, as applying expired cologne could result in an unpleasant smell, skin irritation, or even an allergic reaction.

Check for a change in smell

One of the most obvious ways to tell if your cologne has gone bad is to check for a change in smell. If the scent has changed and smells vastly different from when you first bought it, it's likely gone off. Pay attention to any sour, metallic, or astringent notes that weren't present before, as these are signs of expiration. Once the cologne develops a vinegar-like smell, it's definitely time to toss it out.

The change in smell is due to the oxidation of the fragrance, which can also cause small crystals to form on the outer edge of the dispenser. This, along with a change in opacity, indicates that your cologne is oxidizing and needs to be discarded.

Additionally, some cologne hues may change when exposed to light. For example, a rosy pink fragrance may turn into a peachy pink colour, which is natural due to the quick fade of the red pigment. However, if a significant colour change occurs, such as from gold to green, it's a sign of expiration.

It's worth noting that the shelf life of cologne depends on its chemical composition. Natural fragrances typically last about two and a half to five years, while synthetic fragrances can last up to ten years. Proper storage, such as keeping the cologne in a cool, dark place, can also extend its lifespan.

Observe if the colour has changed

One of the ways to determine if your cologne has gone bad is to observe if its colour has changed. Perfumes that change colour, becoming darker or developing opacity over time, are a sign that they are ageing. This is often due to the evaporation of alcohol, which leaves the perfume more concentrated in essential oils.

A change in colour can also be an indicator that your cologne has been exposed to light. Some perfumes will change colour when exposed to light, and this is a natural occurrence. For example, the Milèo La Rose De Joell Elixir Oud changes from a rosy pink to a peachy pink over time, as the red pigment fades. However, if your cologne was gold when purchased and is now green, this could be a cause for concern.

If you observe a shift in colour, it is recommended to test for other signs of expiration, such as changes in smell, crystallization, and translucency. If multiple signs are present, it is likely time to discard the cologne.

It is important to note that the colour change may not always indicate that the cologne is bad. Some fragrances, such as Cobalt Amber, develop and age beautifully in the bottle, with the colour getting darker and the scent smoother. However, if you notice any other concerning changes, such as an unpleasant smell or skin irritation, it is best to discard the product.

Check for an expiry date

One of the ways to check if your cologne is bad is to look for an expiry date. Although many perfumes don't have a set expiry date, the average shelf life of a fragrance is around three to five years. The expiry date can come in the form of a batch code or a PAO (Period After Opening) number, which can typically be found on the bottom of the cologne bottle or printed on the box it came in. The PAO number indicates the number of months the product will last once opened.

The shelf life of a cologne depends on its chemical composition, specifically its scent notes. Fragrances with heavier base notes, such as oriental scents with oud and amber, tend to last longer. On the other hand, perfumes with lighter base notes, such as citrus, floral, and green perfumes, often have a shorter lifespan.

Additionally, the way you store your cologne can impact its shelf life. Proper storage can help extend the life of your cologne, while sharp changes in temperature and humidity can negatively affect its delicate chemistry. It is recommended to store cologne in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a bedroom drawer or closet, to maintain its quality.

Look for signs of oxidisation

One of the signs that your cologne may be oxidising is if the fragrance starts to crystallise. If you notice small crystals forming on the outer edge of your cologne dispenser, it might be going off. If the smell is also unusual, it's time to throw it away.

Another sign of oxidisation is a change in opacity. If your cologne was originally a translucent golden colour in the bottle and has since turned cloudy or more opaque, it could be time to get rid of it. However, this only indicates oxidisation if the scent has also turned bad.

You can also look out for a shift in colour. Some cologne hues will change when exposed to light. If your cologne was gold when you purchased it and is now green, for example, it's probably time to say goodbye.

Finally, if your cologne is irritating your skin, even if you've worn it many times before, it may be expired. Check the label to see if there are any ingredients you might be allergic to, or ask the brand about what botanicals are in the bottle.

Check for skin irritation

Skin irritation is a common allergic reaction to fragrances. This is known as allergic contact dermatitis, which is caused by a specific type of allergy wherein a substance comes into contact with the skin and results in a rash. The symptoms of allergic contact dermatitis include redness, itchiness, and swelling.

To check for skin irritation, you can perform a patch test. This involves applying a small amount of the cologne to a quarter-sized spot on your skin, such as the underside of your arm or the bend of your elbow. Leave the cologne on your skin for at least five minutes or as long as the instructions advise. If you experience any skin irritation, gently wash off the cologne and refrain from using it again.

It is important to note that some ingredients in colognes, such as retinol and glycolic acid, can irritate the skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. This irritation is usually temporary and normal.

If you experience severe skin irritation or an allergic reaction, such as a burning sensation, blisters, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

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