The UK Government’s Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has warned supply chains and patients about counterfeit cosmetic products following testing that that identified mercury, lead and hydroquinone in counterfeit cosmetics.
According to the IPO, the Trading Standards tested a cross-section of 50 seized counterfeit products, 20 of which failed safety assessments. Potentially harmful or prohibited substances were found across a range of skincare, make-up and fragrance products.
In one counterfeit skin-lightening cream, mercury was detected at a concentration of 1.32% (13,200 parts per million). High levels of lead were also identified in counterfeit lipsticks, eyeshadows and contour products, including one contour kit containing 40 mg/kg. In addition, one counterfeit skin-lightening cream contained 8.1% hydroquinone, a substance prohibited in cosmetic skin-lightening products in the UK.
The guidance outlines several practical measures businesses can take to protect themselves and their patients. These include sourcing products from trusted suppliers, such as brands, authorised distributors and recognised trade wholesalers, while remaining cautious of unfamiliar sellers offering unusually low prices. Businesses should also verify supplier details, addresses and contact information, ensuring the origin of products can be clearly established, according to the IPO.
The IPO adds that products should be inspected before use or sale, with particular attention paid to packaging, labelling, batch information and overall quality. Spelling errors, missing information or unusual changes in a product’s appearance, smell or texture may indicate a counterfeit. Maintaining accurate records of invoices, suppliers and product details is also essential to support traceability and help address any concerns.
The announcement forms part of the IPO’s Face the Fakes campaign, which works with specialist organisations, scientific experts and social media creators to raise awareness of the risks associated with counterfeit products.
Helen Barnham, head of enforcement engagement at the IPO, said, “Counterfeit beauty products pose serious risks to patients. They are produced in appalling, unhygienic conditions with none of the safety assurances that legitimate businesses work hard to provide. Retailers and professionals play an important role in helping patients buy and use products with confidence. By checking suppliers, understanding the warning signs and taking action when something doesn’t seem right, businesses can help keep counterfeit products out of their supply chains. Through Face the Fakes and our new business guidance, we’re working with the beauty industry to raise awareness of the risks and give businesses and consumers practical ways to protect themselves.”