Shelf life labelling on cosmetics - what is worth knowing?

Shelf life labelling on cosmetics is a key piece of information for consumers, helping them to use skincare and make-up products safely. Manufacturers are obliged to provide shelf life information in accordance with cosmetic legislationwhich aims to protect the health of users.

How is the shelf life of cosmetics determined?

Depending on the shelf life of the product, two types of labelling are used:

Date of minimum durability ("best used before the end of/ best used before the end of")

• It is required for cosmetics with a shelf life shorter than 30 months.
• Marked with an hourglass symbol or the words "Best used before the end of...".
• After this date, the cosmetic may lose its properties and safety for use.
• This term cannot be replaced by wording such as "expiry date", "consume before", or "best before", "shelf life", "exp." etc.

PAO (Period After Opening) - shelf life after opening

• Applies obligatorily to cosmetics with a shelf life of over 30 months but it is also possible to label cosmetics with a shelf life of less than 30 months with PAO
• Marked with the open jar symbol with the number of months, e.g. 12M (12 months).
• Indicates how long the cosmetic is usable after opening the packaging.

Which date takes precedence on the label: the date of minimum durability or the PAO?

Priority is given to the date of minimum durability ("Best used before the end of...").

If the cosmetic has a minimum durability date then:

•  The product must be used before the date indicated, regardless of whether it has been opened or not.
• After this time, the cosmetic may lose its effectiveness and safety.

Why is the shelf life important?

• Skin safety - Out-of-date cosmetics can cause irritation, allergies and infections.
• Effectiveness - After the deadline, the active ingredients lose their properties.
• Hygiene and protection against bacteria - especially in products in jars and mascara.

How do I store cosmetics to prolong their shelf life?

• Store in a dry and cool place, away from sunlight.
• Do not put your fingers directly into the jar - use a spatula.
• Close packages tightly to prevent air and bacteria from entering.
• Avoid keeping cosmetics in a humid environment (e.g. bathroom).

What to do with out-of-date cosmetics?

• Do not use cosmetics after the expiry date PAO or shelf life!
• Ensure recycling - check whether the packaging is recyclable.
• Regularly check cosmetics and note the date of opening on the packaging.

Summary

Shelf-life labelling of cosmetics is an important piece of information that allows them to be used safely and effectively. Both the date of minimum durability and the PAO help to take care of the skin and the hygiene of product use. To get the most out of them, it is a good idea to follow the storage rules and regularly check their shelf life.

If you want to find out more about safety of cosmetics check out our articles section!