Canadian police warn of hazardous fake cosmetics

Counterfeit versions of M. A. C. cosmetics that could pose a risk to the public have been seized at a flea market in Abbotsford, British Columbia by police.

Around $10,000-worth of fake mascara, eye shadow palettes, eye-liners and other items were seized in the incident, and a 26-year-old man from Vancouver was taken in for questioning. Officers became suspicious after noticing the products were being offered at a steep discount to normal retail pricing.

M.A.C. later confirmed that laboratory analysis showed that the product was counterfeit, and said it encourages all customers to buy its products from authorised retail locations.

Counterfeit make-up and perfume has been known to contain dangerous substances causing acute reactions such as rashes, allergic reactions and eye infections. Moreover, some products have been found with toxic and carcinogenic substances such as mercury, lead and nickel.