How to read symbols on cosmetics correctly

Consumption and expiration date
There are two types of information on cosmetic products:
1. Best before date / Best before date – usually marked with a symbol with a precise date (e.g. “EXP 12/2026”). This information means that the product is safe to use until the given date, as long as it is unopened and stored correctly. Until this date, the manufacturer/distributor/importer can place and sell the product on the market. After this date, the product should no longer be sold. 
2. PAO (Period After Opening) – the well-known symbol of an open jar with a number and the letter M (e.g. 6M, 12M, 24M). It means that after opening the product is suitable for consumption within, for example, 6, 12 or 24 months. This information is especially important for creams, make-up or products that come into contact with the skin. Even on the exact best-before date, you can open the product and consume it by the date indicated by the symbol on the packaging.

👉 Tip: If you open a new cream, mark the date of opening on the bottom with a marker - you will be sure until when it is safe to use.

The symbol "open hand with a book" 📖✋
This symbol warns that there is an instruction manual or package insert attached to the product. There is not enough space on the packaging for all the details, so the manufacturer provides additional information in a leaflet, catalog or on the website. There you will find:
• exact composition,
• method of use,
• safety warnings,
• recommended storage if necessary or other warnings.
Therefore, if you see the symbol of a hand with a book, it is worth checking the package insert or visiting the manufacturer's website.

Other common symbols on cosmetics
• Recycling triangle (Mobius loop) ♻️ – the packaging is recyclable.
• “E” symbol (Estimated sign) ℮ – the product meets European standards for the amount of content.
• Rabbit / “Cruelty free” 🐇 – the product has not been tested on animals (voluntary marking, because animal testing is not allowed in the EU – therefore, there is no need to include or mention this symbol at all, since testing is prohibited).
• Hourglass or exact date ⏳ – this is a specific expiration date, especially for products with a shorter shelf life.
• Green leaf or ECO symbols 🌿 – indicates that the product is ecological or of natural origin (mostly cosmetics of purely natural origin, i.e. BIO certified).

Why is it important?
By reading the symbols correctly:
• you will avoid inconsistencies when using cosmetics,
• you will preserve the effectiveness and quality of the product,
• you will use cosmetics safely and responsibly,
• you will support the ecological processing of packaging.

✨ Conclusion:
Next time you buy or open a new cosmetic product, don't forget to look not only at the composition, but also at the symbols on the packaging. They will tell you how long the product is safe to use, how to store it and what to do with the packaging after use.