Representational imageKottayam: In a shocking revelation by the Drugs Control Department, most of the beauty products sold in the state are either fake or cause harmful effects on the skin. Around 40 cases were registered in just three months since the inception of ‘Operation Henna’ a statewide inspection to prevent the widespread use of duplicate products in the beauty and wellness industry. According to the report about Rs.3-4 crore worth beauty products are sold in Kerala on a daily basis and half of it are fake which may result in serious skin diseases.
Smudging kohl
The department had recently seized fake kohl which blatantly imitates the trademark colors and packaging of the kajal pencil by multinational beauty giant Lakme. In the statewide raid, the department also seized hair dye with harmful chemicals, duplicate soap, fake henna imported from Singapore and Thailand, and even creams and other products in the name of a multinational brand which the company does not even sell. It was also found out that certain Chinese beauty tablets and face packs are also fake.
Trap for travelers
It’s the tourists who often get cheated in the name of Ayurvedic massage and other wellness treatments. They are robbed of their money by selling fake and duplicate Ayurvedic products. The department has already confiscated many such duplicate products from Adimaly, Kattapana and Munnar. Fake medicines for losing and gaining weight and fairness creams are sold in huge numbers in these areas. It is mostly foreigners and north Indian tourists who visit Kerala to experience the Ayurvedic tradition of the state and get deceived in this manner. The drivers who take tourists to the fake Ayurvedic centers are often paid a heavy commission up of to Rs.2,000.
Excitement for tricksters
Fake pills and medicines which promise extra vigor and vitality are very common in the markets. The Drugs Controller had received many complaints about fake ointments and lotions used on private parts which claim to improve sexual experience. Many such products were also seized from a centre in Munnar.
Complaint cell
Complaints about fake beauty products can be reported to the Drugs Controller. The phone number is: 0471-2471896 and the website is: www.dc.kerala.gov.in
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