How to Tell If The Ordinary is Real

1. Packaging Examination:

One of the first things to check when assessing the authenticity of The Ordinary products is the packaging. Authentic products from The Ordinary come in clean, minimalistic packaging that is sturdy and of high quality. Counterfeit products often have packaging that looks almost identical at first glance, but closer inspection will reveal differences:

• Label Accuracy: The labels on authentic products are precise, with clear, legible text. Counterfeits might have misspelled words, blurry text, or incorrect font sizes.
• Bottle Design: Authentic The Ordinary bottles are made of thick, high-quality glass with a matte finish. The droppers are well-designed, fitting perfectly without leakage. Counterfeit bottles might feel lighter, have uneven finishes, or come with droppers that do not fit as well.
• Box Details: The box of an authentic product is made from sturdy cardboard, and the print quality is sharp. The text should be in the correct font and spacing, with clear, well-defined edges.

2. Product Consistency and Scent:

The Ordinary products are known for their specific textures and scents, which are consistent across batches. Counterfeit products often fail to replicate these qualities:

• Texture: Authentic products have a smooth, even consistency. If you notice a product is unusually runny, sticky, or grainy, it could be a sign of a counterfeit.
• Scent: The Ordinary products generally have little to no fragrance, as the brand avoids unnecessary additives. A strong or unusual scent could indicate a counterfeit.

3. Price and Purchase Location:

The price of The Ordinary products is another significant indicator. Although the brand is known for being affordable, extremely low prices are a red flag:

• Authorized Retailers: Always purchase from authorized retailers, whether online or in physical stores. Websites like Sephora, Cult Beauty, and the brand’s official website are reliable sources. Be wary of third-party sellers on marketplaces like Amazon or eBay, as they are often the source of counterfeits.
• Too Good to Be True Prices: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Genuine products may be discounted, but steep discounts or bundle deals that seem overly generous are often a sign of counterfeit goods.

4. Batch Codes and Expiration Dates:

Batch codes are unique identifiers that The Ordinary uses to track their products. These codes can usually be found on the bottom of the bottle or the outer packaging:

• Verification: You can verify the batch code using online tools or by contacting The Ordinary customer service directly. This can confirm if the product was manufactured by the brand.
• Expiration Dates: The Ordinary products have expiration dates clearly marked. Be cautious if this information is missing or seems tampered with, as it could be a sign of a counterfeit.

5. Customer Reviews and Community Feedback:

Before purchasing, it’s beneficial to read customer reviews and seek feedback from the skincare community:

• Online Forums and Communities: Websites like Reddit, where skincare enthusiasts frequently share their experiences, can provide insights into whether a product might be counterfeit.
• Social Media: Check hashtags and social media accounts related to The Ordinary. Users often post warnings or comparisons between real and fake products.

6. Official Customer Support:

If you’re still in doubt, contacting The Ordinary's customer support directly is always an option. They can help verify the authenticity of a product or clarify any concerns you might have.

• Direct Inquiry: You can reach out via email or social media with details of your purchase, including where and when it was bought, along with batch numbers or photos. The company is known for its responsiveness and willingness to help customers avoid counterfeits.

7. The Influence of Counterfeit Products on Skin Health:

Using counterfeit skincare products can have severe consequences on your skin. These products often contain harmful ingredients that can lead to irritation, allergic reactions, or even long-term damage:

• Ingredient Risks: Counterfeits might include ingredients not listed on the label, which could be harmful. These ingredients may cause adverse reactions, especially for sensitive skin.
• Long-term Damage: Continuous use of counterfeit products can lead to more severe skin conditions, as these products do not undergo the rigorous testing that authentic products do.

8. The Importance of Brand Loyalty and Trust:

The Ordinary has built a reputation for transparency and efficacy. Sticking with authentic products ensures you benefit from the research and development the brand invests in:

• Product Integrity: The Ordinary prides itself on the integrity of its formulations. Counterfeit products compromise this trust, delivering subpar results or even harming the user.
• Consumer Trust: By purchasing through authorized channels and verifying authenticity, you support the brand and contribute to the fight against counterfeit products.

Conclusion:

Identifying authentic The Ordinary products requires a keen eye for detail, an understanding of where to purchase, and knowledge of the brand’s standard packaging and product characteristics. With counterfeit products flooding the market, it’s more important than ever to remain vigilant and informed. Remember, the health of your skin is at stake, and using genuine products is a crucial step in maintaining it.