The name of the fake product may sound generic like “MAC Red” or “MAC Fuschia. ” Authentic MAC lipsticks have names like “Petal Power” or “Lovelorn. ”
The imitation lipstick may have a supplementary sticker near the barcode that reads the name of the product, a serial number, or false factory information.
The bottom sticker of a dupe will also appear more shiny, silvery, and reflective while the authentic one is a grayish-white matte color. [4] X Research source The genuine sticker lists the finish at the top, the name of the lipstick in the center, and the serial number toward the bottom (e. g. , “Satin”, “Myth”, “A78”). [5] X Research source Actual MAC lipsticks are manufactured in Toronto, Canada. If the bottom sticker doesn’t have that information around the edges of the sticker, it’s a knockoff.
If you only have 1 tube, look up photos of authentic or imitation tubes online for comparison. The actual MAC logo looks like it’s almost carved into the cap of the tube. A fake may look more like it’s printed or stuck onto it and the logo may fade over time. The dots on either side of the “A” should also be perfectly round. Sham versions may have oblong or smudged dots. [7] X Research source The logo of a fake MAC lipstick may also be positioned a few millimeters higher than the logo on an authentic MAC lipstick. [8] X Research source
Original MAC lipsticks are coated with a silky sheen to give them a soft, delicate feel. Similarly, hold the tube under direct lighting. A real MAC lipstick tube will be shiny. If it’s matte or dull, it’s a fake.
The MAC logo printed on the silver part of a mock-up will also be much taller and spread out.
Because of the alloy used to make MAC lipsticks, it should feel heavier than a counterfeit tube.
If you look at an actual MAC lipstick tube closely, you may notice the silver ring slightly protrudes from the tube.
The inner plastic lining of the knockoff lipstick may also be stark white and opaque as opposed to the more translucent gray-white plastic on the inside of the original MAC lipstick.
The small plastic ring on the counterfeit may also be a little thicker than the one on the real MAC lipstick.
Some knockoffs may even smell like nothing at all.
The counterfeit MAC may also show signs of clumping or the color may look uneven.
Keep in mind that the finish also matters. Genuine matte lipsticks should feel true to their description (that is, a “powder finish” variety should feel velvety and light while a “mattene” finish should feel silky and suede-like).
Authentic MAC lipstick minis typically cost $12 and up. A counterfeit vendor may try to sell them for $6 to $8.
Beauty-supply stores like ULTA or Sephora or department stores like Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Macy’s, and Neiman Marcus all carry authentic MAC lipsticks. Report any counterfeit lipsticks to MAC by calling 1-800-387-6707 (option 8) or by emailing consumercare-us@gcc. maccosmetics. com.
