Where it's printed
A Chanel code is exactly four digits, which is the shape to look for. Where the mark sits varies by product; the batch code guide covers where to look.
How the code is built
Only the first two digits carry the date. Read them as a number, then divide by 12. The whole part gives the year, and the remainder gives the month, with 0 for January. The last two digits aren't used.
Worked example
6901. Take 69. It is 5 times 12, plus 9. The 5 means 2021 and the 9 means October (counting January as 0), so this was made in October 2021. The app uses 36 months for Chanel, which puts the best before date at October 2024. In November 2026 that is already past.
Variants and edge cases
The app handles the variants and edge cases for you. Some codes the rule can't date; the app says so instead of guessing.
This rule was worked out from a small number of sample codes, so it is the one to double check against the pack.
Shelf life and the PAO symbol
The app uses 36 months for Chanel. That figure comes from a duty-free retailer's notice about a single fragrance, quoting guidance from Chanel's head office, so it fits fragrance better than skincare. Use it as a guide.
For anything you've opened, the PAO symbol is the number to follow, the open jar with a figure like 12M.
Cosmetic Checker is independent and isn’t affiliated with Chanel.