Evergreen practical guide · Published 18 October 2026 · Sources checked 18 October 2026
Start with the packaging: check any expiry date and period-after-opening symbol, then note when you first opened the product. Do not rely on a generic online chart to extend the manufacturer’s instructions. A small, organised makeup collection can be easier to keep track of than several half-used versions of the same product.
Read the open-jar symbol correctly
The American Academy of Dermatology explains that the open-jar symbol shows a number followed by M: the number of months a cosmetic should last after opening. For example, 12M refers to twelve months after first opening, not twelve months from whenever you happen to rediscover it.
Write the opening date on a small removable label or in a phone note. Keep the outer box if it carries instructions missing from the container. If a date or symbol is unclear, ask the manufacturer about that exact product rather than guessing from another formula in the range.
Check condition as well as the calendar
Dermatologists quoted by the academy recommend discarding makeup that develops an unusual smell, colour, consistency or feel, including clumpy mascara or separating foundation. A product looking normal is not a reason to ignore its labelled use period.
BuyCheck has not tested the shelf life or microbiological condition of any product. This is a practical organisation guide, not a way to certify that an old cosmetic is safe. If you cannot establish its age or condition, seek product-specific advice before continuing to use it.
Keep storage simple
The US Food and Drug Administration explains that heat, air, moisture and repeated handling can affect cosmetics over time. Keep products in the conditions specified on the label, close their lids and avoid leaving makeup in a hot car or direct sunlight. Its advice here concerns product handling; US labelling rules should not be read as Australian law.
The FDA also advises against adding water or saliva to dried mascara and against sharing makeup. A dried-out product is not an invitation to dilute it. Keep containers and applicators clean rather than trying to rescue an old formula.
Treat sunscreen as a separate check
For Australian therapeutic sunscreens, the TGA’s regulatory guidance requires an expiry or use-by date supported by stability testing under the labelled storage conditions. Check that printed date and storage advice rather than applying a makeup open-jar rule to the sunscreen bottle.
Do not assume an overseas product page describes the Australian pack in your cupboard. Check the actual label. This article does not assess SPF performance, recommend individual sunscreens or replace the directions supplied with them.
Buy for your routine, not the size of the discount
Our practical shopping suggestion is to make two lists: products you use regularly and products you rarely reach for. Before a multipack purchase, consider whether you will realistically use the contents within the instructions. A lower price per millilitre does not automatically make a larger bottle useful.
For replacements, compare the exact shade, formula and size, then the Australian-dollar delivered total. Keep unopened backups separate and open one at a time where practical. This helps avoid losing track of which container has been in use longest. No current prices, savings or retailer stock claims are made here.
Build a simple makeup-brush cleaning routine →
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Sources
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