- Reference authority
- EU cosmetics framework / Cosmetics Europe guidance
- Programme / market
- European Union / United Kingdom / France / Germany
- Mark type
- Regulatory symbol
- Artwork access
- Reference files · usage conditions apply
- Source checked
- 23 September 2026
What this mark means
The open-jar symbol communicates how long an applicable cosmetic can be used after opening.
Before using this resource
- Use the product’s stability and safety assessment to choose the period and check whether PAO applies.
- Open the official resource below and keep the current guidance with your artwork brief.
- Have the finished layout checked against the product records and destination-market requirements.
A detail worth checking
The number comes from the cosmetic’s assessment. 12M is an example, not a default for every formulation. PAO measures time after opening; minimum durability concerns a different date.
Variants you may encounter
3 months after opening. Use only when supported by the cosmetic’s assessment.
6 months after opening. Use only when supported by the cosmetic’s assessment.
9 months after opening. Use only when supported by the cosmetic’s assessment.
12 months after opening. Use only when supported by the cosmetic’s assessment.
18 months after opening. Use only when supported by the cosmetic’s assessment.
24 months after opening. Use only when supported by the cosmetic’s assessment.
36 months after opening. Use only when supported by the cosmetic’s assessment.
Browse everyday packaging symbols
Useful to know
Which resource should I use for Period After Opening (PAO)?
Start with EU cosmetics framework / Cosmetics Europe guidance. The official link below is the route to the programme’s guidance and any artwork it makes available. Check the conditions for this specific symbol before choosing a layout.
Does downloading the artwork give me permission to use it?
This drawing is listed as Public domain by its source. Follow the linked file terms, attribution and any share-alike conditions. The artwork’s copyright status does not establish product eligibility, trademark permission or conformity with the current standard.
Curated by GoVisually from published source references. How we maintain the library.
