Mercury, lead and methanol found in fake UK beauty products

Trading Standards has found mercury, lead and methanol in counterfeit beauty products seized across the UK. Tests on a cross-section of 50 seized counterfeit cosmetic products identified potentially harmful substances, including 13,200 parts per million of mercury in one skincare item and high levels of lead in lipsticks, eyeshadows and contour products. One counterfeit fragrance contained about 80% methanol, a toxic alcohol that can cause serious poisoning.

The findings come as counterfeit cosmetics, skincare and perfumes become some of the most commonly investigated fake goods. The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) said about 20% of 18- to 24-year-olds who bought beauty products last year knowingly purchased counterfeits, up from 6% in 2023. Trading Standards surveys found nearly three in four people who bought counterfeit cosmetics and toiletries did so online.

Enforcement operations have uncovered significant quantities of fake goods. In July, the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit and Greater Manchester police seized 1,666 counterfeit hair products, including extensions, shampoo and conditioners. Trading Standards officers in Bolton also uncovered £2 million worth of counterfeit goods, including perfume, cosmetics, clothing and vapes, at a production facility in a commercial property.

Health experts warned of serious risks. Repeated skin exposure to mercury can damage the kidneys and nervous system, while lead can harm the brain, nervous system and kidneys, with particular dangers for children and during pregnancy. Rani Ghosh, an independent toxicologist, said effects from substances such as mercury and lead may not be immediately obvious.

Helen Barnham, head of enforcement engagement at the IPO, said counterfeiters bypass safety standards and can make products in unhygienic conditions. The IPO is launching a campaign called Face the Fakes with content creators and the beauty industry to highlight the harms. Millie Kendall, chief executive of the British Beauty Council, said the industry supports the campaign to help consumers buy beauty with confidence.

Source: The Guardian Business.