You’re not replacing an essential hair tool often enough – signs it’s time to toss it before it causes scalp issues

NOT replacing a super common hair tool often enough could make your scalp a breeding ground for bacteria — and irritation.

Hair expert Alice Dawkins revealed the exact amount of time you should be keeping each of your items before switching them out.

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The Milk + Blush professional broke down the maximum amount of time you should be keeping your products.

HAIR DYE

Alice revealed that most hair dyes have a shelf life of about three years before they're opened.

She explained that while most manufacturers advertise their dyes as never expiring, they can become contaminated by bacteria if left too long.

"You'll likely use a box of dye all in one go, but if, for any reason, you don't, its lifespan can vary from up to six weeks, if unmixed, and within one hour, if mixed," Alice said.

She added that contaminated dye "will start to emit a strong smell, look a strange color, or the liquid will separate."

Alice warned that using expired or oxidized hair dye could result in "hair going a darker color than anticipated, taking on a green tinge, or, worst case, an allergic reaction."

HAIRBRUSH

As a daily hair staple, hairbrushes have a shorter shelf life and should be replaced every six months, according to Alice.

"That doesn’t mean you don’t have to look after it in between times, as brushes are a breeding ground for bacteria, and dirty brushes can cause scalp irritation," she explained.

She recommended removing hair after each use and cleaning it once a week using baking soda, water, and a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove product build-up.

Finally, add a mild shampoo and warm water to your brush to help prolong its life.

"Brushes on their way out will start to look worn down, with melted, separated, or missing bristles," Alice added.

Worn-down hair brush bristles can damage your hair and even cause breakage.

HAIR EXTENSIONS

According to Alice, clip-in extensions can last up to one year if cared for well, while professional options require regular salon maintenance.

"We advise against washing clip-in wefts because if it's done incorrectly, you can end up causing more damage than good," she explained.

"However, if you decide to wash them, remember, unlike your natural hair, they don't need to be washed regularly – perhaps every 20-30 wears or if they have product build-up."

She recommended using a sulfate-free shampoo and avoid scrubbing too hard.

"Rinse thoroughly before blow drying on low heat or air drying all the wefts on a flat surface and gently pat away excess moisture from the hair using a microfibre towel," she said.

SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Alice explained that unopened products can last up to three years if stored properly, but should be used within 16 months of opening.

"Most shampoos contain preservatives to protect them against bacterial contamination and make them last longer," she said.

"But even the most carefully stored products will see preservatives wear off with time."

Tell-tale signs that your product is expired include discolored liquid, a lumpy consistency, loss of scent, or an ability to cleanse or condition your hair well.

HAIRSPRAY AND DRY SHAMPOO

These products are also good for three years before opening and 16 months once the seal has been broken.

"Unlike shampoo and conditioners, there’s often a lack of information displayed to tell you how long it will last," Alice said.

"To get the most out of them, store them at room temperature and ensure the nozzle is placed back on firmly when it's not in use to avoid bacteria filtering through and breaking down the chemicals."

She added that if the expired, "you’ll notice changes in its effectiveness."