After-opening (PAO) calculator
The small open-jar icon with “12M” means the product stays good for 12 months after you first open it. Enter the date you opened it and we’ll give you the exact date.
Typical after-opening periods
| Product | Typical PAO | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Mascara, liquid eyeliner | 3–6 months | Used right next to the eyes, and the wand carries bacteria back into the tube. |
| Liquid foundation, concealer | 6–12 months | Water-based and touched by fingers, brushes or sponges. |
| Cream, serum, lotion | 6–12 months | Actives such as vitamin C and retinol weaken once exposed to air. |
| Sunscreen | 12 months, or the printed EXP | UV filters lose strength over time. Follow the expiry date if there is one. |
| Lipstick, lip balm | 12–24 months | Oils and waxes can turn rancid — the smell changes first. |
| Powder, eyeshadow, blush | 24 months | Little or no water, so microbes grow slowly. |
| Perfume | 36 months or more | Alcohol preserves it, but heat and light change the scent. |
These are typical values. The number on your own product is the one that counts.
When to throw it out early
- The smell has changed — sour, rancid or crayon-like.
- It has separated and doesn’t mix back together.
- The colour has shifted, for example a vitamin C serum turning orange or brown.
- The texture is grainy, lumpy or unusually watery.
- It stings or irritates where it never did before.