Cosmetic Batch Code and Expiry Guides
Plain-English answers about batch codes, dates, PAO symbols and shelf life.
What Is a Cosmetic Batch Code?
A plain-English explanation of cosmetic batch codes, lot numbers and barcodes, what they are used for and what they do not tell you.
How to Find the Batch Code on Your Product
Where to look for the batch code on bottles, tubes, jars, compacts and outer boxes, with simple illustrations.
Batch Code Not Found or Not Recognised
Why a cosmetic batch code may not decode: wrong brand, look-alike characters, unsupported formats and what to do next.
Batch Code vs Expiry Date vs Manufacture Date vs PAO
What each date and code on a cosmetic pack means, and which one to follow when they disagree.
PAO Symbol Explained: What 6M, 12M and 24M Mean
What the open-jar PAO symbol means, how to count the months, and how it differs from an expiry date.
How Long Do Cosmetics Last After Opening?
A simple chart of how long mascara, foundation, lipstick, moisturiser, nail polish and perfume usually last after opening.
How to Tell If Makeup or Skincare Is Expired
Simple signs that makeup and skincare have gone off: smell, texture, colour and performance, plus what to check on the pack.
Is It Safe to Use Expired Makeup?
The real risks of using cosmetics past their shelf life, which products matter most and when to stop using something.
How to Store Cosmetics So They Last Longer
Practical storage tips: heat, light, humidity, lids, clean hands and what to avoid in a bathroom.
Perfume Batch Codes and Shelf Life
How perfume batch codes work, why they are hard to decode, and how long fragrance usually lasts if it is stored well.
Why One Batch Code Can Mean Two Different Years
Many batch codes use a single digit for the year, so the same code repeats every ten years. Here is how to tell which year is likely.
Can a Batch Code Prove a Product Is Authentic?
Why a matching batch code does not prove a product is genuine, and what you can do if you are worried about a fake.
How to Ask a Brand About a Batch Code
A short checklist for contacting a cosmetic brand's customer care about a batch code, with the photos and details they need.
Mascara Shelf Life: When to Replace It
Why mascara is replaced about every three months, signs it has gone off and tips to keep it fresh.
Sunscreen Expiry: What to Check
How to check whether sunscreen is still good: printed expiry date, storage, texture changes and why heat matters.