Amazon has issued a stark warning to customers in the UK to immediately stop using and destroy a counterfeit version of a best-selling skincare product purchased through its marketplace.
Counterfeit Skincare Poses Safety Risk
The online retail giant identified that an "unauthentic" and "potential safety risk" copy of the popular CeraVe Hydrating Acid Serum was being sold by a third-party seller. The authentic product, owned by L'Oreal, typically retails for around £23, but the fakes were being offered at a cut price on the platform.
One London-based customer, who paid £31.98 for two bottles, expressed her shock. "Fortunately I hadn't opened mine before I got the warning. I hope no one used theirs," she said. "I'm surprised at Amazon. They're so big they should be more careful about the sellers they take on."
Amazon's Response and Customer Refunds
Following an investigation by its own enforcement team, Amazon has taken swift action. The company has refunded all affected buyers, removed the suspect seller from its website, and is considering a prosecution.
In a direct letter to customers, Amazon stated: "At Amazon, customer trust is our top priority... we recently learned the product you received from a third-party seller is likely not an authentic CeraVe product." The letter emphasised the serious nature of the risk, explaining that incorrect labelling on such health products could lead to potential adverse health effects.
The company instructed customers to destroy the item without returning it, confirming that refunds have been automatically issued to original payment methods and should be processed within 3 to 5 business days.
Platform Vows Vigilance on Authenticity
An Amazon spokesperson reinforced the company's stance, stating: "Products on Amazon must be authentic. We've taken action against the seller and removed their ability to sell through us." This incident highlights the ongoing challenges large marketplaces face in policing third-party sellers and ensuring all goods are genuine, particularly in the health and beauty sector where product integrity is paramount for consumer safety.
