At Certified Cosmetics, we offer a professional PAO (Period After Opening) Test to help you determine how long your cosmetic product remains safe and effective after opening. This is an essential part of regulatory compliance under EU Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, especially for products with a shelf life exceeding 30 months.

What is a period after opening (PAO) test

Our laboratory simulates typical consumer usage to assess product stability once opened. Based on the results, we provide a recommended PAO symbol (e.g., 6M, 12M, 24M), which you can confidently include on your packaging.

What’s Included:

• Full PAO testing under controlled lab conditions

• Scientific assessment of product stability after opening

• Suitable for creams, serums, lotions, gels, oils, and more

• A detailed report with the recommended PAO symbol

• Support for your Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR)

When do you need a PAO test?

A PAO test is required for cosmetic products that have a minimum durability of more than 30 months and do not display an expiration date. The PAO symbol helps inform consumers how long they can safely use the product after opening.

The Process:

1. Buy the test

2. Receive access to our secure portal to scedule the test

3. Send your product sample to us

4. Our lab simulates post-opening conditions and evaluate stability

5. You receive a comprehensive PAO report with symbol recommendation

6. Use the results in your CPSR and label design

With Certified Cosmetics, you benefit from expert testing, fast turnaround, and full regulatory support. Whether you’re launching a new formulation or updating an existing product, our PAO test ensures you remain compliant and transparent.

What’s the Difference Between Expiration Date and PAO?

In cosmetic products, Expiration Date and Period After Opening (PAO) are two distinct indicators of product stability and safety, required under EU Cosmetic Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009.

Expiration Date (Minimum Durability Date)

• Used when: The product has a shelf life of less than 30 months.

• Label format: Usually shown as “Best before [date]” or an hourglass symbol with the date.

• Meaning: Indicates the date until which the unopened product remains safe and effective under proper storage conditions.

• Example: A natural face mask with no preservatives might expire within 12 months of production.

Period After Opening (PAO)

• Used when: The product has a shelf life of more than 30 months.

• Label format: A jar symbol with a number and letter (e.g., “12M” for 12 months).

• Meaning: Indicates how long the product remains safe and usable after the consumer opens it.

• Example: A lotion that lasts indefinitely when sealed, but is good for 12 months once opened.

Summary