Maybelline batch code & expiration date

Where to find your Maybelline batch code

On real Maybelline packaging (made by L'Oréal SA) — green is the code, red is not (the barcode, article number or open-jar symbol):

✓ The batch code is 38U60OG

✗ Not the code: 75001, 2210360

✓ The batch code is SGT20WA

✗ Not the code: 75000, 93584, 3605972342621 (barcode)

✓ The batch code is 38S60OS

✗ Not the code: 75008, 75000, 93584, W6 8AZ

The Maybelline batch code — also called the lot code, lot number or serial number — is a short 4–8 character stamp of letters and numbers, usually embossed rather than printed in ink, and it is never the barcode. On a bottle or jar look at the base; on a tube look near the crimp/seal at the end; on a boxed perfume or fragrance check a flap or side of the box; on makeup check the underside of the compact or inside the pan.

• Bottle / jar — stamped on the base.
• Tube — near the crimp or seal at the closed end.
• Boxed fragrance — a flap or side of the outer box (and often on the bottle base too).
• Compact / palette — the underside, or inside the pan.

About Maybelline batch codes

Maybelline codes encode a mapped year code, a month letter and the day. The brand is owned by L'Oreal Groupe.

Maybelline's official guidance is an unopened shelf life of about 36 months from the manufacture date. Once opened, follow the PAO (open-jar) symbol on the pack.

We've read 503 Maybelline batch codes so far, the newest was made October 2026, and the typical Maybelline product people check here is about 34 months old.

Can the batch code tell me if my Maybelline is authentic? Not on its own. A code that decodes to a sensible date is a good sign, but counterfeiters copy real codes from genuine packs, so a valid code cannot prove a Maybelline product is authentic. Buy from Maybelline or an authorised retailer, and compare the packaging, print quality and seal with one you know is genuine.

Also known as: Maybelline New York.

Does Maybelline expire?

Yes — like all cosmetics and fragrances, Maybelline products have a limited shelf life. Unopened they typically last about 36 months from the manufacture date, and the batch code above tells you how old yours already is. After opening, the PAO (open-jar) symbol — e.g. "12M" — is a better guide than any printed expiration date.

How long Maybelline products last

Unopened: Maybelline's published guidance. Opened: general guidance by product type. A date or open-jar symbol on your pack always wins.

Other brands starting with M