Using Vintage AS.Any Concerns?

[tjp68]

Forgive me for asking a question that has likely been answered. I've searched the forum but can't find an answer.

Being relatively new to DE shaving, I've moved from hardware obsession to software. I really wish I had my grandfather's Gillette razor, but I also wish I had my dad's vintage aftershaves. I've begun to accumulate some things...vintage Old Spice in a glass bottle for instance.

What is the general consensus about using previously opened AS/fragrance? Should I pour it out and decant new product?

 

[indy0423]

Every time I visit my parents, I grab a splash of Old Spice from a big old glass container that's been aroudn since I've been a kid. Never hurt me.

 

[Luc]

If it smells nice and you like it, that's all right. I use some Mennen Skin bracer that was made a long time ago and it's pretty awesome!

 

[man00ver]

I have a lot of vintage aftershave, particularly Avon. It can change over time when not properly stored. Of course, I don't use it if it doesn't smell good. I sometimes decant the juice from less-transparent containers into clear glass so I can check for cloudiness or sediment, since I'd prefer not to put those kinds of particulates on my skin. But really, the alcohol content is high enough that I don't worry too much about spoilage.

 

[CoventryCowboy]

Like manoover said... If it doesn't smell good don't use it. Today I used some vintage Williams aqua velva that I would guess to be about 70 years old and haven't had any adverse reactions yet after 12 hours.

 

[blzrfn]

I use vintage after shaves regularly and have never had any problems.

 

[Sir Lurkalot]

I have and use vintage AS with no problems. You usually can tell if a fragrance has gone rancid. Use it without fear.

 

[michiganlover]

I don't know that there is any nasty stuff that can actually grow in alcohol. So I would say if it smells good, then use it!!

I've also used many vintage Avon aftershave (most of them at least 30 years old), and they are great, as long as they haven't turned from improper storage.

Vintage scents can often be highly sought after, as the original scent can be vastly superior to it's reformulated currently available product.

For example vintage Avon Wild Country Aftershave is way more potent than the product currently sold. What was labeled as aftershave in the 1970's by Avon would likely label as cologne strength today.

 

[Sir Lurkalot]

Aqua Velva classic

 

[Toddy]

Depends on what is in it. It tends to be AS containing citrus oils which are unstable and go rancid readily (smells rancid like rotting orange peel) Clove and nutmeg oils also are unstable. Cedar, lavender, oakmoss, rose etc keep for ages.

Old Spice does not contain citrus and is well known for longevity.

Using out-of-date old nutmeg or mace in cooking can make you feel quite ill with only a small amount as the chemicals from oxidation are very potent, leaving you feeling like you are having a really bad hangover.

 

[mistercitizen]

I've got some vintage Italian AV.... probably from the 60's. It works just fine and smells good too.

Ben

 

[Kabong30]

I have lots of vintage Old Spice and some vintage English Leather that I just got, no spoilage.

 

[luvmysuper]

As long as your not cooking with and consuming your vintage aftershave, and it smells good to you, then use it!