MAC Batch Code Checker
Estée Lauder Group
MAC Batch Code Format
MAC batch codes are commonly 3 characters or more. The first character is usually a batch or factory marker, the second character indicates month, and the third character indicates the year cycle.
Format: batch/factory + month + year (e.g., c79, c11)
Examples: c79, c11, s44, aa1
Shelf Life: 36 months (3 years) from manufacturing date
About MAC Batch Codes
MAC products move quickly through shade launches, limited collections, pro palettes, and retailer exclusives. A batch code is useful when checking a lipstick bought as a backup, a discontinued shade, or a foundation that may have been stored for a while.
Makeup texture matters: even when the date estimate looks fine, discard products that smell waxy, have dried out, separated, or changed color around the cap or applicator.
Where to Find Your MAC Batch Code
MAC codes are often on small round labels or compact backs, so they can be easy to miss if the shade sticker is crowded.
- Lipstick: bottom label, tube base, or the carton end flap
- Foundation and concealer: bottle base, tube crimp, pump label, or box bottom
- Powders and palettes: compact underside, refill pan packaging, or sleeve label
- Brushes and accessories may not decode the same way as cosmetic formulas
Enter the batch code only; shade names such as Ruby Woo or NC/NW numbers are not production codes.
Popular MAC Products
MAC freshness checks are common for classic shades, complexion products, and limited-edition collections.
- Lips: Ruby Woo, Velvet Teddy, Mehr, Powder Kiss, Lipglass
- Complexion: Studio Fix Fluid, Studio Radiance, Pro Longwear, Prep + Prime
- Color: eyeshadow palettes, blushes, Mineralize Skinfinish, seasonal collaborations
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