Read Expiry Dates on Skincare Products

Have you ever found a half used serum or moisturiser in your skincare drawer and wondered whether it is still safe to use? Understanding how to read expiry dates on skincare products can help you make better skincare decisions, avoid using products that have deteriorated, and get more value from your purchases.

From a dermatology perspective, checking a product’s label is an important part of responsible skincare. In Sri Lanka’s warm, humid climate, storing products correctly is also important because excessive heat and moisture can affect product quality.

1. How to Read an Expiry Date on Skincare Products

Start by checking the packaging, including the bottle, tube, outer box and any label attached to the product.

You may see one of these markings:

• EXP or Expiry Date: Indicates when the product expires. Avoid using it after this date.
• Best Before: Shows the date until which the product is expected to maintain its intended quality under appropriate storage conditions.
• MFG or Manufacturing Date: Indicates when the product was manufactured, not when it expires.
• Batch or Lot Code: Identifies a particular production batch. It is not necessarily an expiry date.

For example, if a label says “EXP 10/2027”, it generally indicates October 2027. Always follow the format and instructions printed on the product itself.

Remember that not every cosmetic product displays a printed expiry date. The US Food and Drug Administration explains that US law does not generally require cosmetics to carry expiry dates, although manufacturers remain responsible for product safety. Labelling requirements can differ by market.

2. What Does the Open-Jar Symbol Mean?

Look for a small symbol showing an open cosmetic jar, often marked 6M, 12M or 24M. This is called the Period After Opening (PAO) symbol.

• 6M: Use within six months of opening.
• 12M: Use within 12 months of opening.
• 24M: Use within 24 months of opening.

The number indicates how long the product is intended to remain suitable for use after opening, provided it is stored and handled correctly. For products with a sufficiently long unopened shelf life, this symbol may appear instead of a printed minimum-durability date.

Example: If your serum has a 12M symbol and you open it in January, mark your calendar to review it by the following January. Do not ignore an earlier expiry date or signs of deterioration.

3. Why Skincare Expiry Dates Matter

Over time, a product’s formulation can deteriorate or become contaminated, particularly if it is exposed to unsuitable storage conditions or handled incorrectly. A change in colour, smell or texture can be a warning sign.

Pay particular attention to sunscreens. Using expired sunscreen may mean you cannot rely on its labelled protection. The American Academy of Dermatology advises discarding sunscreen after its expiry date and replacing it if its colour or consistency changes noticeably.

4. How to Store Skincare Products in Sri Lanka

To help maintain product quality:

• Store products away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
• Avoid leaving skincare in a hot vehicle or near a sunny window.
• Close lids tightly after use.
• Use clean, dry hands when handling products in jars.
• Write the opening date on the packaging when you first use a product.
• Follow the manufacturer’s storage instructions.

These habits are useful for everyday products, including serums, moisturisers and sunscreens.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Confusing the manufacturing date with the expiry date: These indicate different things.
• Assuming an unopened product lasts forever: Unopened products can still reach the end of their intended shelf life.
• Ignoring changes in the product: Discard products with unusual odours, unexpected colour changes, separation or altered texture.
• Using expired sunscreen: Replace it rather than relying on potentially reduced protection.
• Guessing from a batch code: If the expiry date is unclear, contact the brand or seller for clarification instead of relying on an online guess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use skincare products after their expiry date?

It is best to avoid using products beyond their stated expiry date. If a product has changed in appearance or smell, stop using it even if the date has not passed.

What if my skincare product has no expiry date?

Check the PAO symbol, packaging and manufacturer’s instructions. If you cannot establish how long it remains suitable for use, contact the brand or seller for guidance.

Does 12M mean 12 months from the manufacturing date?

No. The 12M PAO symbol generally means 12 months after opening, not 12 months after manufacture.

Does sunscreen expire?

Yes. Follow the printed expiry date and storage instructions. Replace sunscreen that is expired or has noticeably changed in colour or consistency.

Where can I find the expiry date on skincare products?

Check the bottle, tube, outer carton, bottom or back label. If the date is missing or unclear, ask the manufacturer or seller to help identify the product’s shelf-life information.

Choose and Use Your Skincare Products Carefully

Reading skincare expiry dates is a simple habit that supports a more thoughtful skincare routine. Check the expiry date, understand the PAO symbol, store products correctly and replace anything that is expired or has visibly deteriorated.

Explore the skincare range at glowmarketing.lk, including serums, moisturisers and sunscreens, and check each product’s label before use. If a product causes persistent redness, swelling, burning or irritation, stop using it and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.