Quick answer
If you’ve been sold a fake skincare product, here is exactly what to do — document it, report it, and get your money back.
Want the authentic one? Every product on TheSkinProof is invoice-verified.
Check a product free →Realising you’ve been sold a fake is frustrating — but acting fast protects your money, your skin, and the next buyer. Here’s a clear, step-by-step plan.
Step 1 — Stop using it
If a product is irritating, burning or you suspect it’s counterfeit, stop applying it immediately. If your skin reacted, switch to a gentle, barrier-supporting routine (see sensitive-skin recovery) and see a doctor if the reaction is severe.
Step 2 — Document everything
- Photograph the packaging, batch code, seals and the product itself.
- Save the order confirmation, payment proof, chat/messages and seller details.
- Note the price and where you bought it.
- Verify the batch code (how to check) and note the result.
Step 3 — Report it to the seller / platform
- Marketplace (e.g. Daraz): open a return/dispute with your evidence.
- Facebook/Instagram seller: request a refund in writing; if refused, report the page/post to the platform for selling counterfeits.
- Keep all communication in text so you have a record. (Background: Daraz & Facebook: real or fake.)
Step 4 — Escalate if needed
- National Consumer Rights Protection (DNCRP) handles consumer complaints in Bangladesh — file a complaint with your documentation.
- For safety-related products (e.g. mercury-contaminated creams), report on safety grounds too.
How TheSkinProof removes the risk entirely
The best “report a fake” process is never getting one. At TheSkinProof, every product is invoice-verified and batch-checked before shipping. And if anything is ever proven counterfeit, you don’t chase a refund — you get 2× your money back under our guarantee. Browse verified products.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I bought a fake skincare product?
Stop using it, document everything (photos of packaging/batch code/seals, order and payment proof, seller details), report it to the seller or platform for a refund, and escalate to the DNCRP consumer-rights body with your evidence if needed.
Where do I report counterfeit products in Bangladesh?
Report to the seller/marketplace first (return or dispute with evidence), report the page for selling counterfeits on Facebook/Instagram, and file a complaint with the National Consumer Rights Protection Directorate (DNCRP). For mercury/steroid creams, also report on safety grounds.
How does TheSkinProof handle counterfeits?
Every product is invoice-verified and batch-checked before shipping, so a fake almost never reaches you. If one is ever proven counterfeit, you receive 2× your money back under the guarantee — no chasing refunds.
What evidence besides the batch code helps prove a product is fake?
An unusual change in texture, smell or color, blurry print on the packaging, and photos showing a seal that was already broken all help build your case. Keep screenshots of your order confirmation and any chat with the seller too.
How do I reduce the risk of buying fake skincare in the future?
Buy from sellers who can show an import invoice and batch number for each product, since that lowers the chance of counterfeit stock slipping through. It also helps to check the batch code yourself against the brand's official verification tool before you place an order.