Best Practices for Buying Cosmetics Online in the EU

Online shopping for cosmetics has exploded — but so have the risks. Products sold online bypass many of the safety checks that physical retail provides. Counterfeit perfumes with methanol. Skin-lightening creams with mercury. Hair products with formaldehyde above legal limits.

Here's how to protect yourself.

Red Flags When Shopping Online

1. Price too good to be true

A luxury perfume at 70% off from an unknown seller? Almost certainly counterfeit. Counterfeit cosmetics are the #1 source of banned substance alerts in the EU.

2. No ingredient list in the listing

EU law requires ingredient disclosure. If a listing has no INCI list, the seller may be hiding something — or doesn't understand compliance obligations.

3. No Responsible Person information

Every cosmetic product in the EU must have a Responsible Person with an EU address. If the listing shows only a non-EU manufacturer address, the product may not be legally placed on the EU market.

4. Shipping directly from outside the EU

Products shipped from China, Turkey, or other non-EU countries often haven't undergone EU safety assessment. They may contain banned substances or exceed concentration limits.

5. Reviews mentioning skin reactions

Pay attention to reviews. Multiple reports of burning, rash, or irritation are serious warning signs.

How to Verify Before You Buy

1. Copy the barcode from the listing (if visible) and scan it on BeautyGuard
2. Copy the ingredient list and paste it into our analyzer
3. Check the brand in our alerts database — has this brand been flagged before?
4. Look for CPNP notification — ask the seller if the product is notified in the EU Cosmetic Products Notification Portal

Safest Places to Buy

• Official brand websites — direct from manufacturer
• Authorized retailers — major pharmacy chains, department stores
• Marketplace verified sellers — Amazon "Sold by" verified brands, Allegro Official Shop

What To Do If You Suspect a Problem

1. Stop using the product immediately
2. Scan it on BeautyGuard to check for alerts
3. Report it to your national consumer protection agency
4. Request a refund — EU consumer law protects you for 14 days

"The cheapest product online might be the most expensive one for your health."

Verify any product before buying →