Korean Cosmetics Expiration

Have you ever wondered about your Korean cosmetics expiration date? I don’t usually buy things impulsively, but when there is a sale I would stop by the store and get something. Of course, I try to use everything that I buy but this is not the case most of the time. Like last year, I bought some cosmetics for the winter weather. I have only used up half the bottle of the “super moisturizing” emulsion. I might not use it again until the next winter.
Check your bottle of Korean skin lotion or any other cosmetic. They usually have a date printed on them. However, this date does not represent the expiration. Instead, it is the manufacturing date or 제조일. The expiration date in Korean is 유통기간, which is not usually used for cosmetics.
Here are two products I bought in the United States last year:

In the photo below are two Korean cosmetic products:

The dates above are pretty straightforward: 20120215 and 20120125. The first four number represents the year – 2012 in both pictures. The next two numbers is the month 02 is February while 01 is January. The last two numbers is the date. So in the first picture, the manufacturing date is February 15, 2012 and in the second picture, January 25, 2012.
You can find the dates at the back label or on the flat end of a tube, like in facial cleansers, BB creams or masks. (An international brand below has both the manufacturing and expiration dates)

Now how long can you keep your cosmetics on the shelf and until when can you safely use them?

For skincare products:
Skin/Toner 3 years from MD; 12 months after OD
Essence 2 years from MD; 12 months after OD
Lotion same as above
Cream 2 years from MD; 8 months after OD
Cleanser 3 years from MD; 12 months after OD

For make-ups:
Base 3 years from MD; 12 months after OD (products with SPF 3-6 months)
Sunscreen 2 years from MD; 3-6 months after OD
Foundation 3 years from MD; 12 months after OD
Pact/Powder 2 years from MD; 12 months after OD (puff replacement)
Lip 1 year from MD; 6 months after OD
Mask sheet 3 years from MD; keep in the fridge
Eye makeup 1 year from MD; 6 months after OD
Others:
Body lotion 2 years from MD; 24 months after opening
Perfume 3 years from MD; 12-24 months after opening
Always check your Korean cosmetics expiration date. However, remember that if your cosmetic has a weird smell or its color has changed, don’t hesitate to throw it away. It’s better to be safe than sorry.