Why are we seeing more fake skincare products?
At Look Lovely London, patient safety is always our priority – which is why we feel it’s important to talk about something we’re seeing more and more in clinic.
In just the past week, five patients have come to us after purchasing skincare products online that didn’t seem quite right.
They were often drawn in by lower prices. But when the products arrived, something felt off – whether it was the smell, the texture, or simply the overall quality.
Unfortunately, this is becoming increasingly common. Counterfeit skincare is now widely available online, and many of these products are designed to closely mimic genuine, medical-grade brands.
How can you tell if your skincare product isn’t genuine?
It’s not always obvious at first – but there are subtle signs patients often notice:
- The product smells different from what you’ve used before
- The texture feels thinner, thicker, or inconsistent
- Packaging appears slightly different or lower quality
- Delivery takes longer than expected
- No clear batch number or authenticity markers
These differences may seem minor, but they can indicate that the product is not what it claims to be.
Guidance from the British Association of Dermatologists highlights that counterfeit skincare may contain unregulated or unknown ingredients – something we would never recommend putting on your skin.
What are the risks of using counterfeit skincare?
Skincare isn’t just cosmetic – it’s something you apply to your skin every day, often alongside professional treatments.
Using counterfeit products can lead to:
- Irritation or unexpected skin reactions
- Breakouts or worsening pigmentation
- Lack of results due to missing active ingredients
- Potential long-term skin damage
The NHS also advises caution with unregulated cosmetic products, as they may not meet UK safety standards.
Put simply, when a product isn’t authentic, you don’t truly know what you’re using.
Is buying cheaper skincare online really worth it?
We completely understand the appeal of a lower price – but what we’re seeing in clinic tells a different story.
Many patients who buy online:
- Wait weeks for delivery
- Question whether the product is genuine
- End up repurchasing from a trusted clinic
So rather than saving money, they’ve spent more – and delayed their results.
When you purchase directly from a clinic like Look Lovely London, you’re investing in:
- Guaranteed authentic products
- Correct storage and handling
- Expert guidance tailored to your skin
- Ongoing support and advice
How to make sure your skincare is authentic
One of the simplest ways to protect yourself is to only purchase from authorised retailers.
For example, Obagi Medical provides an official retailer verification page.
At Look Lovely London, all products are sourced directly from approved UK distributors — so you can feel confident in what you’re using.
Why professional skincare matters alongside your treatments
If you’re investing in treatments, your skincare plays a key role in maintaining and enhancing your results.
For example, patients having anti-wrinkle injections often see better, longer-lasting outcomes when using high-quality, medical-grade skincare at home.
You can read more about this in our related blog on how to maintain your results after aesthetic treatments.
Our advice: protect your skin, not just your budget
Your skin deserves consistency, quality, and care.
While online prices can be tempting, the risks associated with counterfeit skincare simply aren’t worth it – especially when it comes to your long-term skin health.
Not Sure What’s Right for You?
If you’re unsure which treatments or skincare products best suit your skin, we always recommend starting with a complimentary consultation. Skin is personal – and the best results come from a tailored plan that considers your skin type, concerns and long-term goals.
You can book online or call 020 3900 2756, and our team will be happy to help create a personalised treatment plan just for you.
