Cosmetics

Understanding the Shelf Life of Your Cosmetics

Cosmetics play an important role in our daily routines. However, using expired products can have negative effects on your skin and health. That’s why it is vital to keep track of the expiration dates of your cosmetics. One way to check this is by looking at the batch code on the product packaging and use our cosmetics check tool.
Many cosmetics provide a Period After Opening (PAO) symbol on their packaging, indicating how long the product is usable after it is first opened. If your product does not have this information, there are general shelf life guidelines you can follow for various types of cosmetics.

The period after opening (PAO) for cosmetics products can vary widely depending on the type of product and its formulation. Here are some general guidelines for the PAO of various cosmetics products:

• Fragrance: Over 36 months
• Makeup powders: 12 to 36 months
• Foundation in a jar or cream powder: 12 to 36 months
• Liquid foundation (in tubes or jars): 12 months
• Nail polish: 12 months
• Sunscreen: 12 months
• Lipstick, lip gloss: 12 months
• Pencil (eye, lip): 12 months
• Skincare products with a pump: 6 to 10 months
• Solid eyeliner and eyebrow pencil: 6 to 8 months
• Natural/organic products: Over 6 months
• Bronzing products: 6 months
• Mascara: 3 to 6 months
• Liquid eyeliner: 3 to 4 months

These are approximate timeframes and it’s always best to check the PAO symbol on the product packaging. The symbol typically looks like a small open jar with a number inside, indicating the number of months the product is good for after opening. Using cosmetics within these recommended periods ensures they remain effective and safe for use.

To summarize, always pay attention to the expiration date of your cosmetics. Use the batch code to check their freshness, and if needed, refer to these general lifespan guidelines. Keeping your cosmetics fresh not only helps you look your best but also protects your skin and overall health. For a simple and effective way to check the expiration dates of your cosmetics, a free online tool that checks batch codes can save you time and confusion.