Brands · 2 min read
Does Maybelline makeup expire?
Quick answer: Yes. Maybelline says its products are tested to last at least 3 years unopened at normal room temperature. After opening, the PAO symbol on the pack tells you how many months you have.
- Shelf life
- 3 years
- unopened, per Maybelline
“Our products have been tested to have at least a 3-year shelf life if unopened and stored at normal room temperature, during which they will retain their integrity and perform as expected.”
Maybelline, FAQ
How to check your Maybelline product
- Look for the open-jar PAO symbol, such as 6M or 12M, and date the product when you open it
- Check sunscreens and SPF products for a printed expiration date, which Maybelline notes some products carry
- Use your senses: Maybelline says that if a product looks and smells the way it normally does, it is good to use
Unopened vs opened
Maybelline's 3-year figure applies to sealed products kept at normal room temperature. Heat, like a hot car, can shorten that. Once opened, mascara and liquid liner in particular wear out much faster, which is why eye doctors recommend replacing eye makeup after about 3 months.
Mascara is the exception
Maybelline is best known for mascara, which is also the product with the shortest life after opening. Whatever the unopened shelf life, the wand carries bacteria back into the tube every time you use it. Our mascara guide explains why most sources say 2 to 6 months.
Shelf life by product type
General guidance from our sourced product guides, not specific to Maybelline. Your product's PAO symbol comes first.
| Product | General guidance |
|---|---|
| Mascara | 2–6 months after opening |
| Liquid eyeliner | 3–6 months after opening |
| Pencil eyeliner | 12–24 months after opening |
| Foundation | 6–18 months after opening |
| Concealer | 6–12 months after opening |
| Eyeshadow | 12–24 months after opening |
| Blush | 12–24 months after opening |
| Lipstick | 6–24 months after opening |
| Lip gloss | 6–18 months after opening |
| Brow pencil | 12–24 months after opening |
| Primer | 12–24 months after opening |
| Setting spray | 6–12 months after opening |
FAQ
Is Maybelline mascara still good after a year?
Probably not for your eyes. Eye doctors recommend replacing mascara about 3 months after you start using it.
How do I know how old my Maybelline product is?
Look for a batch code printed or embossed on the product. Maybelline's customer service can tell you the production date.
Makeup Shelf is not affiliated with or endorsed by Maybelline. Brand names are used only to identify products.
This is general guidance compiled from the sources below. It is not medical advice. Always follow your product's label, and stop using anything that irritates your skin or eyes.
Sources
- FAQ, Maybelline New York. Accessed September 24, 2026.