When you find skincare that works for you, you want it to go the distance. But did you know how you store your products can make a big difference to how long they last – and how well they work?
Just like food, skincare can be sensitive to light, temperature, and moisture. The good news? With a few simple storage tweaks, you can keep your favorites fresher for longer, reduce waste, and get the most out of every drop.
Here’s how to store your skincare like a pro.
1. Keep it cool (but not freezing)
Most skincare products prefer a consistent, cool temperature: somewhere between room temperature and the slightly cooler side of the spectrum. Avoid storing them near radiators, sunny windowsills, or steamy bathrooms, as heat can break down active ingredients faster.
Bonus tip: Certain products actually benefit from being kept in the fridge. For example, our eye cream feels extra refreshing when chilled. The cool temperature can help temporarily de-puff the under-eye area; perfect for sleepy mornings or post-late-night pick-me-ups.
2. Avoid direct sunlight
Sunlight might be great for your mood, but it’s not so kind to skincare. UV rays can degrade active ingredients like Vitamin C, retinol, and plant-based extracts, causing them to lose potency. Keep products in a cabinet, drawer, or opaque organiser.
If your routine includes our antioxidant-packed Peptide Serum, storing it away from direct sunlight helps protect those precious actives – ensuring they stay effective right to the last drop.
3. Close lids tightly
It sounds simple, but it’s easy to get distracted mid-routine and leave jars or pumps slightly open. Every extra moment exposed to air increases the risk of oxidation (that’s when oxygen breaks down ingredients).
Always screw lids and caps on tightly, and check pump dispensers are secure. This is especially important for water-based products like cleansers and toners, which can be more prone to bacterial growth if left open.
4. Store away from moisture
Bathrooms might seem like the natural home for skincare, but steam from showers can create a humid environment that speeds up product degradation. Moisture can also cause mould or bacterial contamination, especially for natural products that don’t rely on heavy synthetic preservatives.
If you can, keep the bulk of your routine in a cool, dry place – then just bring them into the bathroom when you use them. A lot of our UpCircle products come in jars, which is super handy for minimising steam exposure and helping them to stay fresh for longer.
5. Consider smaller containers
Consider decanting products into smaller containers for daily use. That way, the main supply stays sealed and protected from air, light, and moisture until you need it.
This is an easy way to maintain freshness while reducing packaging waste; one of the simplest wins for both your skin and the planet.
6. Keep tools clean
Fingers, spatulas, or brushes that come into contact with your products should always be clean. This helps avoid introducing bacteria, which can cause products to spoil more quickly (and may lead to breakouts).
With products in jars – like our Cleansing Face Balm with Vitamin E – using a clean spatula instead of fingers is a great habit for longevity and hygiene.
7. Watch for changes in texture, color, or smell
Even with perfect storage, skincare products don’t last forever. If you notice your moisturizer has separated, your serum smells different, or your balm has changed color, it’s a sign the product may have expired.
When in doubt, it’s best to recycle the packaging and replace it.
Storing smarter = wasting less
At UpCircle, we believe every product should be used to its fullest potential, both for your skin’s benefit and to minimise waste. By storing skincare carefully, you’re not only prolonging shelf life and protecting potency, but also getting the most from the natural, upcycled ingredients we’re so passionate about.
From coffee-infused eye cream to antioxidant-rich serums, a little mindful storage goes a long way. Treat your products with care, and they’ll return the favor with beautiful, effective results right to the very last use.