Do cosmetics and perfumes expire? Everything you need to know

Knowing how to interpret the symbols, how long different products last, and detecting signs of deterioration will help you take better care of your skin... and get the most out of them.

What does the open jar symbol mean?

Most cosmetics include an icon of an open jar with a number and the letter M (for example, 6M or 12M). This symbol indicates how many months you can use the product once opened, provided you store it correctly.

It is not an exact expiration date, but a reference for safe use after the first contact with air.

How long do cosmetics last once opened?

These times may vary depending on the formula, the preservation system, and the method of application.

• Facial creams : between 6 and 12 months

Avène

HYALURON ACTIV B3 cell regenerating cream

Anti aging & anti wrinkle treatment - Skin tightening & firming cream - Rechargeable

From 33.95 €

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Kiehl's

CREAMY EYE TREATMENT with avocado

Dark circles, eye bags & under eyes cream

From 25.08 €

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• Mascaras and eye creams : between 6 and 12 months
• Makeup (foundations, powders, concealers): approximately 12 months

IT Cosmetics

YOUR SKIN BUT BETTER CC+ cream foundation SPF50+

CC Cream

From 17.75 €

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bareMinerals

ORIGINAL loose foundation SPF15

loose powder

From 29.68 €

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• Sunscreens and self-tanners : 6 to 12 months
• Facial cleansers and toners : 6 to 12 months

Lancaster

CLEANSERS softening perfecting toner

Face toner

From 19.05 €

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Bioderma

SENSIBIO gel moussant micellar cleansing gel

Facial cleanser

From 6.49 €

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• Hygiene (gels, shampoos, body creams): 12 to 18 months
• Deodorants : approximately 1 year, regardless of the format.

Clear signs that a cosmetic product has spoiled

Beyond the recommended time, there are very clear signs that indicate a product is no longer in good condition and should be discontinued:

• Change in smell (stronger, rancid or unpleasant)
• Change in color or appearance of spots
• Altered texture (it curdles, becomes liquid or grainy)
• Phase separation that is not corrected by shaking
• Irritation or stinging upon application

And perfumes... do they expire?

Perfumes work differently than cosmetics. They don't expire suddenly, but they do deteriorate over time. That is, they can still be usable, but lose quality, intensity, and olfactory fidelity.

How long does a perfume last?

On average, a perfume stays in good condition for between 3 and 5 years, although this period depends on several factors:

• Concentration : Eau de Parfum (EDP) usually lasts longer than Eau de Toilette (EDT)
• The ingredients : Woody, oriental, and resinous notes are more stable, while citrus notes deteriorate faster.
• Preservation : Light, heat, and humidity accelerate its deterioration

Signs that a perfume has gone bad

A perfume in poor condition usually shows clear changes. When this happens, the perfume no longer offers the experience for which it was created.

• The smell changes and no longer resembles the original.
• It smells more like alcohol than fragrance.
• The color darkens or becomes cloudy
• The fragrance doesn't last at all on the skin.

How to properly store perfumes and cosmetics

Proper storage can greatly extend the life of your products:

• Store them in a cool, dry, dark place
• Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources
• Keep the containers tightly closed
• Don't store them in the bathroom if it's very humid.

Checking the expiration dates of your cosmetics and perfumes is a simple way to care for your skin and enjoy each product at its best. Paying attention to usage time, signs of deterioration, and proper storage will make the difference between an effective product… and one that has already reached the end of its lifespan.