Counterfeit beauty products in UK found to contain toxic chemicals

Testing of seized counterfeit goods by Trading Standards has revealed the presence of dangerous substances in cosmetics, skincare, and perfumes. Investigations found one skincare product containing 13,200 parts per million of mercury, alongside significant levels of lead in lipsticks and eyeshadows. Additionally, some fake fragrances were found to contain nicotine and approximately 80% methanol.

Recent enforcement actions include the seizure of 1,666 counterfeit hair products from a Manchester warehouse by the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit and Greater Manchester Police. This followed a raid in Bolton where Trading Standards officers seized £2 million worth of counterfeit items, including vapes, clothing, and cosmetics, from a production facility.

Data from the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) Counterfeit Goods Tracker indicates a rise in consumer awareness regarding illicit goods, with an estimated 20% of 18 to 24-year-olds knowingly purchasing counterfeit beauty products in 2025, compared to 6% in 2023. The IPO is currently running the ‘Face the Fakes’ campaign to highlight the health risks associated with these products.