My lab develops low-cost and easy-to-use tools for identifying fake medicines , but we’re always on the lookout for other types of fakes that we can go after. For example, the cosmetics industry has a massive problem with counterfeit products. Studies estimate that two-thirds of branded makeup and skincare products on sites like eBay, TikTok Shop, and Vinted are fake. Counterfeit cosmetics don’t just waste consumers’ money; they may also expose wearers to harmful contaminants like heavy metals and bacteria.

As part of an ongoing study, I’ve been purchasing both authentic and counterfeit versions of various cosmetics. I’m always struck by how much work fraudsters put into making the fakes look authentic. At a glance, the counterfeit versions of a product are virtually indistinguishable from the genuine ones. However, with a little research and some close inspection, you can start to find little inconsistencies that give away the fakes.…