Shelf life of cosmetics (PAO symbol)

In short: The PAO symbol (an open cream jar with a number such as “12M”) shows how many months a cosmetic product stays good after opening.

In more detail: Products with a shelf life of less than 30 months must carry a best-before date (hourglass symbol or “best before”). Longer-lasting products only need the PAO symbol.

In Depth

• Rules of thumb: mascara 3 to 6 months, creams in jars 6 to 12 months, sunscreen one season.
• Spoilage: changed smell, colour or consistency, mould.
• Hygiene: Take from jars with a clean spatula, not with fingers.
• Natural cosmetics: Water-containing products without strong preservation often last shorter.
• Reactions: Eye irritation from old mascara can be an infection.

See also: INCI: reading cosmetic ingredients, Parabens