When a popular co-branded lipstick that triggers an enthusiastic response in the market detonates the market, fake products often appear, and how to distinguish authenticity becomes the most important thing for consumers.
The anti-counterfeiting code is the most direct evidence
When you want to buy this 10th anniversary limited edition lipstick, please check the side of the box first. A truly authentic product will have a clearly visible and non-obfuscated special anti-counterfeiting label affixed here. There is a QR code printed on the label that can be scanned. You can use the QR code scanning function of your smartphone to jump directly to the official verification page designated by the brand to conduct inquiries.
This anti-counterfeiting system is connected to the brand database and can provide accurate feedback on product-related information. If the page cannot be opened after scanning the code, or the prompt label is ineffective, or the number of queries is abnormal, it can generally be determined that it is a counterfeit. Don't easily believe what the seller provides as "internal verification screenshots". You must verify it yourself.
Barcode information reveals origin
The important information that represents the identity of the product is the product barcode on the authentic packaging. This lipstick is co-branded with a cosmetics brand. The first three digits of its barcode are "880", which means that the product has completed the registration and filing of the product barcode in South Korea, thus confirming its identity as a Korean import.
For consumers, they can download a professional barcode query application and then use the program to scan the barcode to check whether the product name and specifications are completely consistent. If you encounter counterfeit goods, the barcode numbers are likely to be different, or the scanned information may not match the actual product, such as being displayed as other unrelated products. This is precisely one of the key details in identifying authenticity.
Production batch number and process details
Open the label under the lipstick body, and the production batch number is printed on it. The authentic batch number uses dot inkjet coding technology. The font size is clear and slightly embedded in the label material. It has a slight bumpy feeling when you touch it with your hand. The format and arrangement of the batch number have consistent and specific rules for the brand.
At the same time, the craftsmanship of the lipstick shell was observed. It is a genuine metal tube with a thick texture. The brand logo on the top is finely carved, with smooth edges and no burrs. When opening and closing the paste, you can hear a crisp "click" sound and the feel is smooth. Counterfeit products are usually rough in these details, have unclear logos, or have lightweight textures.
Paste texture and usage experience
As far as the core paste is concerned, genuine lipstick is a completely colorless and transparent paste, and there is no smell of artificial fragrance. It is extremely smooth when applied, and can build a long-lasting moisturizing film on the lips, which can effectively relieve dryness, but will not cause the discomfort of greasiness or stickiness.
This product is positioned as a highly effective pre-makeup lip balm. Many users have reported that using it before applying lipstick can smooth out lip lines, making the subsequent lipstick color more saturated and even, and avoids caking caused by dryness, improving the overall makeup effect.
Comprehensive judgment on packaging and gifts
What highlights the quality of the joint limited edition is the overall packaging design of the authentic product. The printing color of the outer box is accurate, and the black shading and hot stamping logo form a sharp contrast. The paper is hard and textured. The brand attaches great importance to this 10th anniversary cooperation. When purchasing products from the official website in the early days, sometimes it will be given a small commemorative gift customized by the brand.
In addition, in order to save costs, the paper used in the packaging of counterfeit products is relatively soft, and when printing, there may be color differences or blurring. Generally speaking, they will not be equipped with any formal gifts. If the price is extremely lower than the prevailing market pricing and a large number of freebies are promised, then you must be highly vigilant.
The importance of official purchasing channels
Cutting off counterfeit and shoddy goods from the beginning is the most reliable anti-counterfeiting method and approach. It is recommended to give priority to the brand's official online store, the flagship store of a well-known cosmetics brand with which it has a cooperative relationship, or an officially authorized offline counter to implement purchasing actions. The product supply chain of these channels is clearly organized and clear, and complete purchase vouchers and bills can be provided.
Even though some overseas purchasing agents or small online stores may have some advantages in terms of price, the sources of their goods are complex and diverse, which significantly increases the risk of identification. Especially in the early stages of the release of popular limited-edition products, when the market is in short supply, the probability of fakes appearing through unofficial channels will increase significantly.
Have you ever encountered trouble in the past due to purchasing fake cosmetics? You are welcome to share your experience and identification experience in the comment area. If you find this article helpful, don’t forget to like it and share it with more friends.
