I found a bottle of hand lotion (Vasoline Intensive Care) in the back of a drawer in the basement. It’s probably a few years old. Since it was almost full, I brought it up to use.
It was as runny as water. At first, I thought it had separated, but, no. After a vigorous shaking, no difference.
I’m pretty sure it won’t hurt me, but, will it still help my dry hands?
Probably the oils have broken down. This happens if it’s stored in a place it gets too warm. Also, bacteria or mold can set in when they age. So if it smells funny, toss it.
It will still sort-of soften, but it doesn’t really absorb into your skin the same way. I wonder if it could be whipped into the proper consistency, or if it was hydrogenated and the gas is now gone.
Unfortunately, they no longer sell the classic yellow-bottle formula.