Fake Beauty Products Online: 40% of Indian Shoppers Affected
By Business Desk
Shocking survey reveals 40% of Indian consumers bought fake beauty products online. Learn about health risks and financial losses in the booming beauty market.
Imagine buying your favorite lipstick or serum online, only to find out it’s a fake. A recent survey by LocalCircles reveals that a startling 40% of Indian shoppers have unknowingly purchased counterfeit cosmetic products in the past three years, a trend that could be hitting your cart too.
This widespread issue is emerging in India’s booming beauty and personal care market, which is projected to reach nearly $34 billion this year. The nationwide survey engaged over 23,000 consumers across 318 districts, painting a clear picture of where these dubious products are coming from.
Where Are the Fakes Coming From?
Online platforms, including various apps and websites, are the leading source for these fake beauty items.
A breakdown of where consumers encountered counterfeit products shows a clear pattern:
Online platforms (apps and websites) accounted for 23% of fake purchases.
Traditional beauty, cosmetics, or general stores contributed 18%.
Local market stalls were responsible for 14% of reported fakes.
Department stores saw 9% of consumers buying counterfeits.
Company stores and direct sellers each represented 5%.
Interestingly, no counterfeit products were reported from purchases made at malls.
Health Risks and Regulatory Action
Beyond the financial hit, these fake products pose significant health dangers. The survey also found that 26% of respondents experienced an allergic reaction to at least one cosmetic product they used.
Authorities are taking notice, with several enforcement actions already underway to tackle this growing problem:
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration conducted raids in June, seizing illegal cosmetics and manufacturing equipment valued at Rs 1.52 crore.
In Nagpur, 18 women developed severe kidney disorders due to a Pakistan-made skin-lightening cream containing mercury levels 752 times the legal limit.
An investigation by India Today exposed a Rs 500-crore operation in the National Capital Region that re-labeled expired cosmetics for resale.
Kerala’s Drugs Control Department initiated 15 new cases in August under ‘Operation Soundarya’.
What’s Next for Consumers?
LocalCircles plans to share its survey findings with key government bodies, including the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Department of Consumer Affairs. They are pushing for crucial changes to protect shoppers.
The recommendations include mandating unique, scannable authentication codes on all cosmetic products sold across India. Additionally, they advocate for e-commerce listings to clearly disclose seller, license, and batch details, helping you make more informed and safer choices for your beauty routine.