Makeup Expiry Reference Chart (PAO)

Every opened cosmetic has a Period After Opening (PAO) — shown as a small open-jar icon with a number of months. This chart summarises standard replacement timelines. Bookmark it, print it, link it.

Makeup replacement timeline

Product	Replace after opening	Early warning signs
Mascara	3 months	Dry, clumpy, changed smell
Liquid eyeliner	3 months	Skipping line, drag
Pencil eyeliner	12 months	White film, crumbling tip
Liquid foundation	6–12 months	Separation, sour smell, colour shift
Concealer (wand)	6–9 months	Thick texture, odour
Cream blush / bronzer	12 months	Oil film, patchy application
Powder shadow / blush / bronzer	24 months	Hard glazed surface, patchiness
Setting powder	24 months	Hard cake, off smell
Lipstick	12–18 months	Sweating beads, waxy smell
Lip gloss	6 months	Sticky-stringy texture, odour
Lip liner	18–24 months	White film (sharpen it off)
Liquid lipstick	6–12 months	Separation, smell
Nail polish	18–24 months	Stringy, won't remix after rolling
Makeup sponge	3 months (wash weekly)	Tears, permanent stains, smell
Brushes	Years, if washed weekly	Shedding, splayed bristles

Skincare quick reference

Product	Replace after opening
Cleanser	12 months
Moisturiser (pump)	12 months
Moisturiser (jar)	6–9 months
Vitamin C serum	3–6 months (darkening = oxidised)
Other serums	6–12 months
Sheet masks	Single use; check printed expiry

Three rules that cover everything: (1) wet products expire faster than dry ones; (2) jars expire faster than pumps; (3) anything used near the eyes gets the shortest window. When in doubt — smell, texture or colour changed — replace it.

Replacing something? Start with mascara, foundation and a fresh set of tools.