How to Spot Fakes
So, what can you do to avoid these potentially dangerous, or even lethal, fakes?
Here are 7 warning signs to look out for:
Bargain prices are by far the most important red flag. Products discounted by a quarter or third — or even more — of their regular price are highly suspect.
You should also be dubious about expensive, top-name products that appear to come from China.
The product packaging is not an exact match for what you’re used to seeing. Maybe the color is slightly different, the wrapping is scrappy or the lettering is different.
The packaging suggests that it’s a new variation or “limited edition” of an existing product. Check the authenticity of this on the manufacturer’s website.
The texture or consistency of the makeup seems wrong or different than usual. Just because you bought the item and are out of pocket, don’t be tempted to use it. The product may not be safe.
The same goes for fragrances — does it smell slightly different than how it should? Genuine manufacturers control fragrance production so closely that it should always smell the same.
The product is being sold at flea markets or other unauthorized retailers. Again, most genuine manufacturers carefully control who is allowed to sell their products.