ComScore

Beware, Makeup Lovers: A Ton of Counterfeit Beauty Products Were Found to Contain Lead and Bacteria

We love a good deal, especially when it involves a coveted name brand (oh, helloooooDrunk Elephant sale). But beware, budget beauty lovers, because we have some pretty gross news that will make you rethink saving a pretty penny on look-alikes of cult-favorite makeup products.

After seizing more than $700,000 in counterfeit cosmetics from street vendors in downtown L.A., authorities have announced that the knockoffs tested positive for bacteria, lead and even traces of animal feces. (Um, thank God we just finished our lunch...)

According to ABC News, officials say the investigation began when “customers complained of rashes and other skin irritations from using the knockoff mascaras, lipsticks and eye shadows.” Urban Decay, MAC and Kylie Cosmetics were among the brands being counterfeited. 

Naked Palette from the guy on the corner for ten bucks? Um, we’ll pass, thanks.


RF1

Director, Branded Content + Cohost, Royally Obsessed Podcast

As Director of Branded Content at Gallery Media Group, Roberta helps oversee the ideation and execution of sponsored content and experiential campaigns across PureWow and ONE37pm, including PureWow’s 24 in ’24. She began her career in editorial nine years ago, and has written and edited countless articles on news, trends, fashion, beauty and the royal family. She’s also cohost of the Royally Obsessed podcast, named one of the best royals podcasts by The New York Times and Town & Country. She cowrote the book Royal Trivia: Your Guide to the Modern British Royal Family.