The K-Beauty industry has witnessed an exponential rise in popularity over
the years. With innovative products, exquisite packaging, and effective
formulations, Korean skincare and makeup have taken the world by storm.
However, as with any booming industry, there comes the threat of counterfeit
products. And these fakes have found their way onto popular platforms,
including the likes of Amazon, Ebay, TikTok Shops and others.
A Glance at the Counterfeit Problem
Brands like Beauty of Joseon, Isntree and Round Lab have
reported an influx of fake versions of their products being sold online. These
counterfeits are not only a loss for the original brands but also might pose a potential
health hazard to the consumers who accidentally purchase them. With different
ingredients, and sometimes harmful additives, these fake products can cause
more harm than good.
1. Differences
in Packaging and Brand Name:
One of the simplest, yet most overlooked methods to differentiate a
genuine product from a fake is to check its packaging and brand name.
Counterfeiters, in their bid to replicate the original product, might make
minor mistakes that the discerning eye can catch. It could be a slight
misspelling, a difference in font, or even the quality of the
packaging material and color. Always make sure to compare the product in
question with the official images on the brand's website.
If a brand has updated its design or packaging, this information will be
available on its official site and on authorized retailers' websites. In
case of doubt, it's best to avoid purchasing the product or reach out to the
brand directly for verification.
2. Check the Seller:
Knowing who you're buying from can make a huge difference. Even on
platforms like Amazon, not every seller is authorized or genuine. Before making
a purchase, verify the seller's credentials. Do they have a good
rating? Are there positive reviews from other buyers regarding the authenticity
of the products? If the seller is not listed as an authorized distributor on
the brand's official website, it's a red flag.
It might be a better option to purchase directly from the brand's
website or from recognized retailers who are authorized
distributors (the list can be found on brands website).
StyleKorean website is a verified, authorized seller, located in South
Korea. Working directly with K-beauty brands our website is selling 100%
authentic products.
Round Lab
To ensure the authenticity of a Round Lab purchase, closely check the
Korean font, spacing and the brand's logo.
Beauty of Joseon
Closely look into the Beauty of Joseon firsyly at the brand logo to identify the authentic product, font and spacing are also important to check!
Following counterfeit incidents involving Beauty of Joseon popular probiotics sunscreen
and sun stick, BOJ has taken proactive measures. To assure
customers of product authenticity, they've introduced a scannable
label on the packaging. This label can be verified using the Beauty of
Joseon mobile app, providing an additional layer of trust and
transparency.
*Currently you can find this label on Light On Serum: Centella +
Vitamin C. Other products will be also gradually released with the
label.
(Please Note! Some products that are already on the market may
not have the label yet.)
**The
Beauty of Joseon Light on Serum sold on StyleKorean has the stock with
verification label on.
IsnTree
The brand IsnTree has also recently encountered counterfeit product issues. To ensure the authenticity of your purchase, it's crucial to check both the product's brand and design carefully.