The Ordinary batch code & expiration date

Where to find your The Ordinary batch code

On real The Ordinary packaging (made by Deciem Inc.) — green is the code, red is not (the barcode, article number or open-jar symbol):

✓ The batch code is TFN2

✗ Not the code: 769915193657 (barcode), 12-276, A-02-01

✓ The batch code is 1DG1

✗ Not the code: 769915194791 (barcode), 19-114-A, A-04-02

The The Ordinary 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 The Ordinary batch codes

The Ordinary codes encode a year digit plus a month letter.

Real documented examples: code → manufacture date.

The Ordinary'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 760 The Ordinary batch codes so far, the newest was made September 2026, and the typical The Ordinary product people check here is about 26 months old.

Can the batch code tell me if my The Ordinary 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 The Ordinary product is authentic. Buy from The Ordinary or an authorised retailer, and compare the packaging, print quality and seal with one you know is genuine.

Does The Ordinary expire?

Yes — like all cosmetics and fragrances, The Ordinary 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 The Ordinary products last

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

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