How To Spot Fake Makeup and Avoid Buying It

There have been many warnings about using fake makeup as it can be highly dangerous if applied to your skin. Counterfeit products look very similar to the original product and come at a fraction of the price. People who have used fake makeup have noticed rashes, swelling and redness with some people being left with scars or burns to their skin. To avoid being scammed or left hurt, here is your guide to keeping your makeup bag completely fraud-free.

1. Check The Label

Fake makeup will often have misspelt words, uneven fonts or incorrect shade names so make sure to compare them to the packaging on the company's website.

2. Buy Products From Authorized Stores Only

Stores like Sephora, Ulta Beauty and Mecca Maxima are authorised to sell certain makeup brands meaning that they will carry the real deal. Mini stores in the middle of shopping centres or sketchy websites are most likely selling fake products.

3. Check The Price

If it's too good to be true it probably is. Always compare the price of the product to the one listed on the company's website. One of the main reasons that people fall into the trap of buying counterfeit products is because they are so much cheaper than the original product. High-end products have a similar price point at most retailers so if you spot a Dior Foundation for under $20 it's definitely not legit.

4. Compare The Shade Of The Product

Fake lipsticks, eyeshadow palettes or blushes come in shades that are very different from the authentic shade. Checking pictures of the shades online and comparing them will ensure you aren't buying a fake.

5. Swatch The Makeup Before Buying

Don't be afraid to use the testers in-store to swatch the product. Check the consistency of the powder, how pigmented the shade is and the creaminess of a lipstick. Remember to smell the product to see if it is artificial or full of chemicals.

6. Look At The Packaging

The packaging on most fake makeup products will look very similar to the real thing. Inspect the colours, shapes, fonts and overall quality of the package. If the product comes with a sponge or brush compare the quality of those too.

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Have you ever had a bad experience with fake makeup? Share your story in the comments below.

- xoxo Miss Makeup