Brands · 2 min read
Does Revlon makeup expire?
Quick answer: Yes, eventually. Revlon says its products typically have a shelf life of at least 3 years. Once opened, follow the PAO symbol on the pack; Revlon's own guide gives mascara 3 to 6 months and powders about 2 years.
- Shelf life
- 3 years
- unopened, per Revlon
“Revlon products typically have a shelf life of at least 3 years and do not require expiration dates.”
Revlon, General FAQ
How to check your Revlon product
- Find the open-jar PAO symbol on the packaging, for example 12M, and count from the day you opened it
- Note the batch code printed or embossed on the product, and ask Revlon's customer service if you need the production date
- Replace anything that smells, looks or feels different, whatever the date says
What Revlon's 3 years means
The 3-year figure is about unopened products. It tells you a sealed Revlon product should hold up on a shelf for years. Once you open it, air, fingers and brushes start to wear it down, and the shorter period on the PAO symbol takes over.
Revlon's own guide after opening
Revlon's makeup guide gives mascara and liquid eyeliner 3 to 6 months, foundation and concealer 12 months, cream shadows 12 months, powder shadow and blush 24 months, lipstick and gloss 12 to 18 months, and pencils 12 to 24 months. Our product guides compare these numbers with medical sources.
Shelf life by product type
General guidance from our sourced product guides, not specific to Revlon. 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 |
| Cream eyeshadow | 6–12 months after opening |
| Blush | 12–24 months after opening |
| Lipstick | 6–24 months after opening |
| Lip gloss | 6–18 months after opening |
| Lip liner | 12–24 months after opening |
| Brow pencil | 12–24 months after opening |
FAQ
Why is there no expiration date on my Revlon product?
U.S. law does not require expiration dates on cosmetics. Revlon says its products typically last at least 3 years and do not need one. Use the PAO symbol after opening.
Does Revlon hair color expire?
This page covers Revlon makeup. For box dye in general, see our hair dye guide.
Makeup Shelf is not affiliated with or endorsed by Revlon. 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
- General FAQ, Revlon. Accessed September 24, 2026.
- Does Makeup Expire? How to Know When to Replace Your Products, Revlon. Accessed September 24, 2026.