Know the Period After Opening to Avoid Contamination in Cosmetics
In cosmetics, there is a term called Period After Opening (PAO), which differs from the expiration date. PAO refers to the period during which a cosmetic product remains safe to use after being opened.
It is indicated on the packaging by an open jar symbol with a number inside, representing the time (in months) since the product was opened. For example, if the PAO is labeled as “M12,” it means the product is safe to use for 12 months after the package is opened. Consumers must pay attention to and understand PAO because using a product beyond the specified period may reduce its effectiveness or pose health risks.
The Importance of PAO on Cosmetic Packaging
PAO information helps consumers determine how long a product can be safely and effectively used. Once opened, cosmetic products can become contaminated with bacteria and fungi, potentially leading to skin health issues. Skincare products past their PAO period can serve as a breeding ground for pathogenic microbes, causing skin irritation or acne.
Additionally, cosmetics like mascara, if stored too long after opening, may become contaminated with bacteria, leading to eye infections. Therefore, it is important to note the date the product is opened and discard it if it surpasses its PAO. Some cosmetic products also contain active ingredients prone to oxidation after opening, meaning PAO helps optimize their effectiveness.
PAO vs Expiration Date
PAO is represented by an open jar symbol with a number indicating how many months the product remains safe after opening. Meanwhile, the expiration date is marked with a specific date or month and year, indicating the last safe usage date for unopened products. PAO ensures the safety and effectiveness of products after opening, while the expiration date prevents the use of expired, unsafe products.
Contamination Cases of Opened Beauty Products
A study by Ghias & Fozouni (2024) explored microbial contamination and toxin exposure in shared beauty products used in a women’s salon in Iran. The study evaluated microbial contamination in 320 opened cosmetic samples and analyzed the dominant microbes' ability to produce toxins and protease enzymes. Results showed that 56.25% of the samples were contaminated with microbes. Skincare products had the highest contamination rate (63.88%), while eye makeup products had the lowest (20%). The dominant microbes contaminating cosmetics included Staphylococcus aureus (28.5%) and Candida albicans (11%).
Some of these microbes produce harmful metabolites, such as enterotoxin B and protease. S. aureus‘s enterotoxin B can cause skin inflammation, irritation, and redness while damaging the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to bacteria. Meanwhile, C. albicans‘ protease damages skin protein structures, weakens protective layers, and causes wounds or irritation. Protease also enhances C. albicans‘ ability to invade the skin, potentially leading to fungal infections.
To minimize risks, avoid sharing cosmetic products with others, store cosmetics in cool, dry places to discourage fungal and bacterial growth, and use antimicrobial agents or preservatives that comply with microbiological standards to reduce contamination risks and exposure to harmful metabolites.
As a business owner, don't wait until consumers experience problems due to contamination! Immediately conduct microbiological and stability testing on your cosmetic products to ensure their safety and effectiveness are maintained.
Don't wait until it's too late! Immediately conduct testing to ensure your cosmetics are free from contamination.
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Author: Safira
Reference:
Ghias, M. & Fozouni, L. 2024. Assessment of Microbial Contamination and Metabolite Exposure in Cosmetic Products Used in Women's Beauty Salons. Iran J Public Health, Vol. 53, No.5: 1175-1183.
Tan, Macklin. 2024. Period After Opening (PAO) dan Bedanya dengan Expired Date. Tersedia: https://dsi-printer.co.id/id/artikel-dan-berita/period-after-opening-pao/, diakses pada 18 Desember 2024.
