Free tool

Makeup expiration calculator

Pick a product and the date you opened it to see when to replace it, using the open-jar (PAO) number on the label or the typical range.

Signs to toss it sooner

  • It smells different, sour or unpleasant.
  • The color has changed (for example, foundation looks darker or orange).
  • It has separated into layers.
  • The texture changed: dry, flaky, runny, clumpy, crumbly, hard or cracked.
  • Mascara has dried out or clumps (don't add water or saliva to revive it).
  • It feels different on your skin, or you notice more breakouts, irritation or reactions after using it.
  • You were using an eye product when you got an eye infection.

Questions

How long does mascara last after opening?

The FDA says manufacturers usually recommend replacing mascara 2 to 4 months after purchase, and the American Academy of Dermatology says 3 months. Toss it sooner if it dries out or clumps, and don't add water or saliva to revive it.

What does the open-jar symbol (PAO) mean?

The number is how many months the product should last after you first open it. For example, 6M means about 6 months and 24M means about 2 years.

Does skincare expire?

In the US, cosmetics usually don't carry an expiration date, and the FDA calls expiration dates 'rules of thumb.' A product can go bad before its date if it's stored poorly, such as in heat or sunlight. Sunscreen is different: the FDA requires it to keep its original strength for 3 years.

How do I know if makeup has gone bad?

Toss it if it smells different, changes color, separates, changes texture, or you notice irritation or breakouts after using it.

Sources

  1. Shelf Life and Expiration Dating of Cosmetics (FDA)
  2. Cosmetics Safety Q&A: Shelf Life (FDA)
  3. When to replace makeup and sunscreen (American Academy of Dermatology)
  4. When Should You Toss Your Makeup? (Cleveland Clinic; dermatologist Shilpi Khetarpal, MD)
  5. Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products, Article 19 and Annex VII (EUR-Lex)

This tool is general information, not medical advice. Patch-test new products and ask a dermatologist about skin conditions.