Bilgiye hızlı erişim:
Cosmetic packaging is not just about visual appeal—it also provides critical technical information essential for the safe and proper use of the product. This information is often communicated through small symbols, but what do these symbols actually mean? And when should they be taken seriously?
In this article, we explore two commonly found symbols on cosmetic labels: the Opened Jar (PAO) and the Hourglass (Minimum Durability Date)—explaining their significance in detail.
Opened Jar Symbol (PAO – Period After Opening)
The Opened Jar symbol indicates how long a product can be safely used after it has been opened. This period is typically shown on the packaging in months (denoted by "M").
Examples:
12M → The product should be used within 12 months after opening.
6M → The product should be consumed within 6 months after opening.
⚠️ Important Points to Note:
This symbol is mandatory for cosmetic products with a shelf life longer than 30 months.
The PAO period depends on the product’s formulation, packaging type, and intended usage.
After the specified period, the product may lose effectiveness or become microbiologically unstable.
► Consumer Tip: For safety, it's useful to write the opening date on the packaging to track the PAO period.
Hourglass Symbol (Minimum Durability Date)
The Hourglass symbol refers to the product’s minimum shelf life before opening. It indicates the last date until which the product is guaranteed to remain safe, effective, and stable if unopened.
It is typically accompanied by a date in this format:
≈ Example: 08/2027 → The product is safe to use until August 2027, as long as the packaging remains sealed.
Where Is It Used?
→ The hourglass symbol is required for products with a shelf life of less than 30 months.
→ Commonly found on eye care products, face masks, and natural formulations with more sensitive ingredients.
Note: Even if unopened, using a product past this date may pose risks to its efficacy, stability, or microbiological safety.
Consumer Safety & Regulatory Compliance**
These symbols serve not only to inform the consumer, but are also legally required under cosmetic regulations. Specifically:
EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC No 1223/2009)
UK Cosmetics Regulation (Post-Brexit)
Turkish Cosmetics Regulation
Each outlines clear criteria for the use of these symbols based on product type and shelf life.
► Manufacturer Warning: Accurate and compliant use of these symbols directly impacts the product’s marketability and legal validity.
Symbols on Labels Are Not Minor—They’re Critical
Label symbols are not mere design elements. They are essential indicators for the correct, safe, and compliant use of cosmetic products.
Consumers should learn to interpret these symbols correctly, and brands must adopt a scientific and regulatory-based approach in their labeling processes.
Label Compliance Evaluations with COSMING Laboratory
At COSMING, we don’t just test your products—we also:
✔ Verify the regulatory compliance of your label content
✔ Evaluate the technical and legal accuracy of PAO and durability symbols
✔ Offer professional support during pre-market label approval processes
Winning consumer trust and ensuring regulatory compliance begins with transparent and accurate labeling.
For assistance with label review, PAO testing, shelf life determination, and cosmetic regulatory consultancy, our expert team at COSMING is here to help.
Stay informed about the latest developments in the industry and our company by subscribing to our e-newsletters.
Cosming Laboratuvar Bilgi Yönetim Eğitim Danışmanlık San. Ve Tic. Ltd Şti.
Get a Quote Register