Overview

PCPC member companies are committed to product safety, quality and innovation. The U.S. cosmetics industry invests $2.7 billion each year in scientific research and development to support the safety and efficacy of hundreds of new products and their ingredients. Cosmetics are one of the most dangerous counterfeit item categories and in the top 8 product categories most often subjected to counterfeiting and piracy in terms of global customs seizures.

PCPC continues to work with members of Congress and other stakeholders to raise awareness and develop solutions to fight the online sale of counterfeit cosmetics and establish stronger consumer protections.

Consumer Safety Risks

According to reports from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the FBI and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), counterfeit cosmetics often contain harmful and dangerous ingredients, posing severe health risks to consumers.

Phony cosmetics can contain known carcinogens, including arsenic, beryllium and cadmium, along with high levels of aluminum, mercury and dangerous levels of bacteria.

They are produced illegally, without adherence to federal or state safety and quality requirements, and have been linked to allergic reactions, skin irritation, chemical burns, eye infections and even more severe health repercussions. Products may also be manufactured in unsanitary conditions.

Revenue Loss

Counterfeit and lookalike products lead to significant revenue loss for brands, undercutting sales by offering cheaper alternatives, which may appear almost identical to the genuine product. The cosmetics industry loses around $5.4 billion each year to fraudulent sellers.

Brand Reputation

Fake and mimicking products often lack the quality and safety of the original items, which can lead to consumer dissatisfaction, damaging the reputation of the genuine brand.

Identify and Report Counterfeit Cosmetics

• Buy from a reputable seller: Check brand websites, sellers’ locations and “sold by” information.
• Read the reviews: Look for comments or concerns of fake products or overly generic language.
• Compare pricing: If the price seems too good to be true, it usually is.​