Cosmetics Expiry Calculator

PAO (Period After Opening) is shown as a number followed by "M" on cosmetics packaging (like "12M"), meaning the product is good for that many months after it's first opened, regardless of the manufacturing date.

Products with a shelf life of 30 months or more (like many fragrances) are exempt from PAO labeling in the EU. In that case, rely on the unopened shelf life and watch for changes in smell, color, or texture.

Mascara and eyeliner are used close to the eye and repeatedly exposed to air and bacteria from the eye area with each use, so they carry a higher infection risk and shorter safe-use windows (often 3-6 months).

Expired products can harbor bacteria, lose preservative effectiveness, and cause skin or eye irritation or infection. Discard anything that has changed in smell, texture, or color, even if it's within its stated PAO.