If you are a makeup artist or a fan of makeup, you may have come across counterfeit lipsticks.It is worth knowing how to spot the difference so you know what you are spending your money for.There are slight differences in the quality of the lipstick and the packaging, but counterfeit manufacturers closely copy the real product.
Step 1: There is a sticker on the bottom of the box.
There is a sticker on the bottom of the box that says the hue.The sticker on authentic MAC lipsticks is round, while an imposter may have the name printed directly on the box.The fake product's name may sound like a generic one.
Step 2: If the barcode is on a sticker, look for it on the box.
The barcode is on the carton's side.It's an authentic lipstick if it is on a sticker.It's a fake if the barcode is printed on the box.There is a sticker near the barcode that reads the name of the product, a serial number, or false factory information.
Step 3: The base sticker on the tube should start with A, B, or C.
You can find the serial number at the base of the tube.The serial numbers start with A, B, or C and are followed by two numbers."A 44" or "B32"A counterfeit may start with another letter that is not A, B, or C.The authentic sticker is grayish-white, while the bottom sticker of the dupe is shiny, silvery, and reflective.The finish at the top, the name of the lipstick in the center, and the serial number toward the bottom are all listed on the genuine sticker.The lipsticks are manufactured in Canada.It's a fake if the bottom sticker doesn't have the information around the edges.
Step 4: The cap of the lipstick has a logo on it.
The real tube's fonts is closer together than it is in height.A fake tube will have the same style but it will be slightly taller and more spread out than the real thing.For comparison, look up photos of authentic or imitation tubes online.The logo is almost carved into the cap of the tube.The logo may fade over time if it is stuck onto a fake.The dots on either side of the "A" should be straight.Shams may have oblong or smudged dots.The logo of a fake lipstick may be positioned a bit higher than the real one.
Step 5: To see if it's real or fake, feel the tube.
To find out if the tube feels silky, hold it in one hand and run your thumb up and down.It is a fake if it is not smooth or plastic-feeling.The lipsticks are covered in a silky sheen to give them a soft, delicate feel.
Step 6: If you suspect one of the tubes to be a phoney, switch the caps.
Try to switch the caps if you suspect one of the lipsticks is counterfeit.The fake cap will fit over the real one, but it will be too small.You may be able to see that the authentic tube of lipstick has a thinner metallic section.The silver part of a mock-up will have the MAC logo printed on it.
Step 7: If you hold the tube under direct lighting, you can see if it is real or fake.
Put the tube of lipstick under the light of a lamp or flashlight to see if it's reflective.It's authentic if the tube is shiny.Under direct lighting, the counterfeit lipstick will be less shiny.If you have 2 tubes, you can see the difference.If you only have one tube, look up a photo of the original lipsticks.
Step 8: To see if the aluminum tube is shiny, remove the cap.
The real part of the lipstick is shiny and silvery while the aluminum part is dull.The makeup is often made from an alloy like aluminum and steel.The alloy used to make the lipsticks is heavier than a fake tube.
Step 9: If you can feel the ring, run your fingers down the tube.
The silver ring separates the cap from the applicator and you can move your finger from top to bottom.You know it's a genuine lipstick if you feel a small redness on your face.It's a fake if it is smooth.The silver ring protrudes from the lipstick tube if you look closely.
Step 10: There is a plastic lining inside the aluminum tube.
If you want to see the inside of the tube, turn the bottom of it.There is a small hook towards the top of the genuine MAC lipstick's inner plastic part, which is less busy.The inside of the tube will have hooks and cutouts.The inner plastic lining of the knockoff lipstick may be stark white and opaque as opposed to the translucent gray-white plastic inside the original MAC lipstick.
Step 11: The plastic ring at the base of the lipstick needs to be inspected.
The base of the tube should be turned to expose the lipstick.There is a plastic ring around the base.It is a fake if it is white or opaque in color.The small plastic ring on the counterfeit may be thicker than the real one.
Step 12: If you smell the lipstick, you'll see that it has a signature scent.
Give the lipstick a big whiff by holding it up to your nose.You will notice a soft scent if it is genuine.The smell of fake lipsticks might be similar to fruit or candy.Some of the imitations may smell like nothing at all.
Step 13: To check for creaminess, apply the lipstick to your inner arm.
Pay attention to how the lipstick moves on your skin.You can check the consistency by touching it with your finger.An imitation of a legitimate MAC lipstick will feel heavier and less creamy than a real one.There are signs of clumping in the counterfeit MAC.
Step 14: Determine if it feels greasy on your lips.
Rub the lipstick on your lips together to get a sense of its texture.The real MAC lipsticks feel like soft butter without the added grease and glossy look of the pseudo mac lipsticks.The finish is also important.There are two types of lipsticks, a powder finish and a matte finish, both of which should feel silky and suede-like.
Step 15: You should be cautious of low priced lipsticks or deals.
If you find a deal on a MAC lipstick that seems too good to be true, the vendor is probably selling counterfeits.It is likely a fake if you see a tube of lipstick for $10.For a package of 3 or 4 lip products, the cost is at least $20 a tube.The cost of authentic lipstick minis is usually $12.A fake vendor might try to sell them for $6 to $8.
Step 16: You can order lipstick from their website.
If you want to buy lipstick from individual sellers, flea markets, street vendors, internet auctions or independent boutiques, you should avoid them.If you want to order it from their website, go to a brick-and-mortar store.There are many beauty supply stores and department stores that carry authentic MAC lipsticks.
Step 17: If you see a counterfeit lipstick, please report it to MAC.
Let MAC know about the counterfeit lipstick so they can possibly take action against the seller.You can email consumercare-us@gcc.maccosmetics.com if you want to report a counterfeit.You need to give them the following information: the counterfeiter's location name and address, and the type of counterfeit product you bought.