Does Makeup Expire? Signs and Timelines
Yes — makeup expires, and using it past its prime can irritate skin or cause infections. Here are the real timelines and the warning signs to watch for.
5 min read · Updated July 2026
Yes, makeup expires
Every cosmetic has two clocks: the unopened shelf life from the manufacture date, and the period after opening (PAO) once you break the seal. Whichever runs out first is your real deadline.
Decode the batch code to find the manufacture date, then use the open-jar PAO symbol to know how long it lasts after first use.
Typical timelines after opening
- Mascara and liquid eyeliner: 3–6 months. The wand pumps bacteria back into the tube every use.
- Liquid foundation and concealer: 6–12 months.
- Cream products (blush, eyeshadow): 12 months.
- Powders (pressed, loose, bronzer): 18–24 months — dry formulas resist bacteria.
- Lipstick and lip gloss: 12–18 months.
- Pencil liners: up to 24 months, since sharpening exposes a fresh surface.
Warning signs it's gone off
Trust your senses before the calendar: a sour or 'off' smell, a change in colour, separation, a dried or clumpy texture, or a filmy layer all mean it's time to bin it.
Anything you use near the eyes or on broken skin deserves extra caution — a mascara that smells odd is not worth an eye infection.
What happens if you use expired makeup
Preservatives weaken over time, letting bacteria, mould and yeast grow. That can trigger breakouts, irritation, styes, conjunctivitis or cold-sore-like reactions.
Expired SPF and active skincare also lose potency, so the product may simply stop doing its job even if it looks fine.
FAQ
Can I use makeup after the PAO date if it looks fine?
It's not recommended for eye and lip products, where infection risk is highest. Powders are the most forgiving. When in doubt, smell and inspect it — and replace anything used near the eyes.
Does unopened makeup expire?
Yes, but more slowly. Sealed products are typically good for 2–3 years from manufacture. Decode the batch code to check how old an unopened item already is.