Bought Because It Was Cheap… Harmful Substances Detected in Counterfeit Cosmetics
Risks of Counterfeit Cosmetics from Famous Overseas Brands
Recently, counterfeit cosmetics from famous overseas brands have been circulating at low prices through SNS and other channels, calling for extra caution among consumers. The Korea Consumer Agency recently examined 34 seized counterfeit cosmetic products and found harmful ingredients far exceeding safety standards in 11 products.
In particular, perfume products frequently used low-cost methanol instead of ethanol to reduce production costs. Among the products tested, six items in which methanol was detected recorded levels up to 484 times higher than the permitted standard.
Genuine perfumes use ethanol as a solvent to dissolve fragrance ingredients, but counterfeit products often use harmful methanol to cut costs.
Harmful Ingredients That Can Be Fatal to the Human Body
When absorbed into the body, methanol can cause vision damage, and long-term exposure may lead to central nervous system disorders.
In hand creams and body mists, CMIT and MIT, ingredients that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, were also detected in violation of prohibited use standards. In lipstick products, lead exceeding the standard limit was confirmed, revealing that the manufacturing environment for counterfeit cosmetics is highly opaque.
Lead is even more dangerous because it can accumulate in the body and cause growth delays and cardiovascular diseases.
Proper Purchasing and Response Guidelines
Because counterfeit cosmetics are manufactured without any safety verification or hygiene control, products that are excessively cheaper than market prices should be viewed with suspicion. It is important to develop the habit of using official websites or certified stores whenever possible.
If you have already purchased a suspicious product, secure evidence such as the product appearance and receipt, then request a refund from the seller immediately. If the issue is not resolved, you can apply for damage relief through the Intellectual Property Infringement One-Stop Reporting and Consultation Center or the 1372 Consumer Counseling Center.
Low-priced cosmetics from unclear sources can cause unexpected skin conditions and physical harm. Smart consumption that is not swayed by a small price difference is the first step in protecting your health.
Choosing cosmetics verified to contain safe ingredients is the most basic yet essential step in protecting skin health. Yuricos promises a transparent and systematic distribution process so that customers can experience only excellent-quality products they can trust.
