The makeup expiration calculator helps you track when each product in your collection was opened and alerts you before it expires. Using cosmetics past their shelf life can cause skin irritation and eye infections. Add products below to build your personal expiry tracker — data is saved in your browser.
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Makeup Shelf Life Reference
| Product | Shelf Life After Opening | Signs of Expiry |
|---|---|---|
| Mascara | 3 months | Clumping, drying out, unusual smell |
| Liquid Foundation | 6–12 months | Separation, changed texture or smell |
| Lipstick | 12–24 months | White film, rancid smell, crumbling |
| Eyeshadow | 12–24 months | Powdery, color change, won't blend |
| Setting Powder | 18–24 months | Altered color or texture |
How to Use the Makeup Expiration Calculator
Using expired makeup poses real risks — expired mascara and eyeliner can cause eye infections, and old foundation can harbor bacteria that leads to breakouts. The makeup expiration calculator helps you track every product's shelf life with color-coded alerts.
How to Track Your Products
Add each product by entering its name, selecting the product type from the dropdown, and entering the date you first opened it. The tracker calculates the expiration date and shows how many days remain, with green for safe, yellow for expiring soon (within 30 days), and red for expired or overdue.
Understanding the PAO Symbol
Most cosmetic packaging has a Period After Opening (PAO) symbol — a small jar with a number and "M" (for months). This is the manufacturer's guidance on how long the product is safe after opening. The shelf life figures in this tool are based on industry-standard PAO guidelines and dermatologist recommendations.
Mascara: Replace Every 3 Months
Mascara has the shortest shelf life of any makeup product. The wand contacts both your eye area and the product on every use, introducing bacteria and moisture that can cause eye infections and styes. Replace mascara every 3 months, even if it's not empty. If it smells strange or becomes dry and clumpy before 3 months, replace it immediately.
When to Discard Regardless of Date
Always discard makeup that has changed color, developed an unusual smell, shows visible mold, or has an altered texture — regardless of the calculated expiration date. These are signs of contamination or oxidation that make the product unsafe to use.
FAQ
Is this makeup expiration calculator free?
Yes, completely free with no signup. Your product data is saved in your browser's local storage.
Is my data safe?
Yes, all data is stored locally in your browser. Nothing is sent to any server.
How long does mascara last?
Mascara expires 3-4 months after opening. It's the makeup product with the shortest shelf life because the wand repeatedly contacts both the eye and the product, introducing bacteria. Discard and replace every 3 months regardless of how much is left.
How long does liquid foundation last?
Liquid foundation typically lasts 6-12 months after opening. Pump foundations last longer (12 months) because they have less air exposure than pot or bottle formulas. Mineral powder foundations last up to 2 years.
What is the period after opening (PAO) symbol?
The PAO symbol is a small open jar with a number and M, found on most cosmetic packaging (e.g., '6M' = 6 months after opening). This is the manufacturer's recommended shelf life after opening. This calculator uses those industry-standard timeframes.
Can expired makeup cause skin problems?
Yes. Expired makeup can harbor bacteria that cause eye infections (especially mascara and eyeliner), breakouts, and skin irritation. Products with SPF lose effectiveness. Expired makeup also has altered texture and color performance. When in doubt, throw it out.