That mascara at the back of your drawer or the lipstick you have had for years might be doing your skin more harm than good. Makeup does not last forever — once opened, every product has a limited safe life. Use the free makeup expiry calculator below to check whether your favourites are still good to use or should be thrown away. Just pick the product and the date you opened it.
Makeup Expiry Calculator
Find out if your makeup is still safe to use.
The open-jar symbol (e.g. 12M) on packaging shows how many months a product lasts after opening.
How long does makeup last after opening?
Once you open a product, air and bacteria start to affect it. As a general guide: mascara and liquid eyeliner last about 3 months, liquid foundation and concealer around 6 months, lipstick and lip gloss up to 12 months, and powder products like blush, bronzer and eyeshadow can last 18 to 24 months because they contain less water for bacteria to grow in. Skincare such as moisturiser and sunscreen is usually good for about 12 months after opening.
What is the PAO (period after opening) symbol?
Look on the back or base of your product for a small open-jar icon with a number and the letter M — for example “12M”. This is the Period After Opening symbol, and it tells you how many months the product stays safe once it has been opened. Enter that number into the calculator above for the most accurate result for your specific product.
Signs your makeup has gone off
Even before the date, trust your senses. Throw a product away if it changes smell, colour or texture, separates, becomes dry or clumpy, or stings when applied. Old makeup can harbour bacteria that lead to breakouts, eye infections and irritation. To make products last, keep lids tightly closed, store them away from heat and sunlight, avoid adding water or saliva, and clean your brushes regularly.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use makeup after its expiry date?
It is best not to. Expired makeup can grow bacteria and lose effectiveness, which may cause irritation, breakouts or eye infections. Eye products like mascara are the most important to replace on time.
Does unopened makeup expire?
Yes, but more slowly. Unopened products usually last two to three years. Check for a printed best-before date; once opened, follow the PAO (open-jar) symbol instead.
How can I make my makeup last longer?
Close lids tightly, store products in a cool dark place, keep them away from bathroom humidity, never share eye or lip products, and wash your brushes and sponges regularly to reduce bacteria.