Mercury, lead and methanol found in counterfeit beauty products seized across UK

Summary

Mercury, lead and methanol have been found in counterfeit beauty products seized across the UK, according to Trading Standards. The watchdog warns that copies of popular cosmetics and skincare products are more likely to contain toxic substances. Scammers are selling fake versions of popular and expensive brands, and cosmetics, skincare and perfumes are now among the most commonly investigated fakes.

Timeline

1. The Guardian

   30 Oct 2026, 13:05 UTCSource ↗

   The Guardian reports that Trading Standards has said mercury, lead and methanol were found in counterfeit beauty products seized across the UK, and warns that copies of popular cosmetics and skincare products are more likely to contain toxic substances.