Fake/counterfeit fragrance risks
I’ve had interactions across fragrance communities that have really left me concerned, and it’s always regarding fake or counterfeit perfumes/colognes. Let’s just start by clearing up that counterfeiting a perfume is not the same* *as a dupe. The former is illegal and unregulated, the latter is not.
I’ve had people downvote and scream until they’re blue in the face that as long as counterfeited the fragrance smells the same, there can’t be harming in using it, but there is! Here are some notable points from this .gov article so you don’t have to take my word for it:
“Counterfeit fragrances have been found to contain something called DEHP, classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a probable human carcinogen. These phony perfumes and colognes, which sometimes contain urine as well, have been known to cause serious skin rashes.”
And
“If you think you or someone you know may have purchased counterfeit cosmetics or fragrances—or if you suspect someone of selling counterfeit items—submit a tip to the National IPR Center.”
Please only buy from legitimate, trusted, safe sellers…Ones who won’t sell you aromatic piss and carcinogens to make a quick buck. And let’s please consistently warn fellow fragrance lovers of the risks associated with buying from scammers and resellers from places like Facebook Marketplace.