AUTHENTIC OR FAKE?

A GUIDE TO BUYING RELIABLE MEDICARE SAFELY ONLINE

In the fast-growing world of aesthetics, the rise of counterfeit and fake products is an unfortunate yet inevitable outcome. With billions of dollars in revenue at stake, the global circulation of fake products is prevalent, causing problems for manufacturers, distributors, and customers alike. So, in a market flooded with so many options, how can you tell if a product is authentic or fake?

Many people know how to spot a fake designer item, like a knock-off Rolex watch or a Louis Vuitton handbag. They understand the tell-tale signs that distinguish the real from the counterfeit, with sayings like “if it feels light, it isn’t right” becoming common knowledge. But when you shop online, where you can't physically inspect or touch a product, spotting fake dermal fillers becomes far more challenging. What should you be looking for, and how do you protect yourself?

A BOOMING MARKET AND THE RISE OF FAKES

The global aesthetic market is expanding at an unprecedented rate, valued in the billions. Leading brands like Juvéderm from Allergan and Restylane from Galderma dominate the space, each enjoying massive profits as top manufacturers. However, the industry's explosive growth attracts counterfeiters eager to exploit the high demand for their own gain.

With such large sums of money circulating, it’s inevitable that fake and counterfeit fillers flood the market. These products are often sold at prices that seem too good to be true, raising the level of distrust between buyers and sellers. As a consumer, it’s essential to be cautious and well-informed to avoid falling victim to these deceptive products when shopping for dermal fillers online.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FAKE AND COUNTERFEIT PRODUCTS?

Understanding the difference between fake and counterfeit products is crucial when shopping for dermal fillers. A counterfeit product is designed to deceive the buyer by imitating the branding, packaging, and appearance of the real product. These knock-offs are extremely difficult to spot because they look nearly identical to the original, and it often takes an expert to detect the subtle differences.

On the other hand, a fake product may have different branding and a different name from the original, but it falsely claims to deliver the same benefits. For instance, a filler named “Festylane” is clearly a knock-off of the popular Restylane brand. While it’s easier to identify these products as fakes, the real concern lies in counterfeit fillers, which closely resemble the authentic ones.

The danger of counterfeit fillers is significant. These products can contain cheaper, unregulated, or even harmful ingredients. Using counterfeit products puts patients at risk of severe side effects, including allergic reactions, soft tissue damage, and even infections. It’s essential to purchase dermal fillers from trusted, verified sources to ensure both safety and quality.

BUYER BEWARE: HOW TO IDENTIFY AUTHENTIC DERMAL FILLERS ONLINE

Shopping for dermal fillers online can be convenient, but it also comes with risks. To help you avoid counterfeit products, here are some crucial steps to ensure you’re buying authentic fillers:

Is anyone there?
The first sign of a legitimate online business is the ability to communicate with real employees. Before making a purchase, check whether the company provides a phone number, email address, or live chat option. Call or message them to ensure there’s someone on the other end. If you get in touch with a real person, that’s a good indicator that the business is trustworthy.
Product identification
Medical devices, such as dermal fillers, should come with identifying information like batch codes, lot numbers, and expiration dates. These details help track the product and ensure its safety. Always ask the seller for this information before completing your purchase. If they can’t provide it, that’s a red flag.
Company location and background
Check where the company is based and where the products are shipped from. If the business is located within the EU, for example, you can verify its legitimacy through a VAT or tax identification number. This simple step can help you confirm whether the company is legitimate and compliant with industry regulations.
Beware of suspiciously low prices
If a dermal filler is being sold at a price significantly lower than the market average, it’s likely a fake. While prices can vary slightly between distributors, authentic products generally fall within a standard price range. If you see a steep discount, be cautious—it could be a counterfeit product trying to lure you in.
Inspect special trademarks
Many leading dermal filler brands incorporate security measures such as holographic stickers or special seals to authenticate their products. When purchasing fillers, look for these features. Counterfeit products might also have small but crucial errors, such as misspelled words or incorrect fonts on the packaging. Allergan, for instance, reported a case where counterfeit Juvéderm Ultra 4 had a misspelling on the box: “Science of Rejuvenation” was incorrectly printed as “Science of Erjuvenation.” In the same case, the font of the word ALLERGAN was also incorrect.
Check social media activity
A reputable company is likely to have an active presence on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn. Check whether the business regularly posts updates, engages with followers, and shares authentic images of products, employees, and facilities. Consistent activity and customer interaction are good signs that the company is legitimate.
Customer reviews and recommendations
While it’s great for a company to boast about its products, it’s even better when other people vouch for them. Look for customer testimonials, reviews, or ratings on trusted platforms like Google My Business or Trustpilot. Positive feedback from past customers is a good indication of a trustworthy business. Conversely, negative reviews or warnings from other buyers can help you avoid scams. Keep in mind that unhappy customers often share their experiences online, so bad news travels fast.

HAPPY & SAFE SHOPPING

As the aesthetic industry continues to grow, the presence of counterfeit products will likely persist. That’s why staying informed and vigilant when purchasing dermal fillers online is more important than ever. By following these guidelines, you can reduce the risk of buying fake or counterfeit products and ensure that you’re investing in safe, high-quality dermal fillers.

Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts, do your research, and always prioritize your safety when making online purchases.

Good luck :)

By Direct Derma Supplies | October 24, 2024