Karnataka Drug Control Raids 10 Bengaluru Outlets in Drive Against Fake Cosmetics

The Karnataka Drugs Control Department has launched a citywide enforcement drive against fake and substandard cosmetics across Bengaluru, with officers raiding 10 retail outlets on August 10 and seizing lipsticks, serums, and face creams for laboratory analysis.

The crackdown followed an official announcement of the drive on August 9. Health Minister UT Khader warned that individuals and businesses risking public health through counterfeit beauty and personal care items would face strict action.

The enforcement action coincides with findings from a survey by Local Circles, which indicated that 30 per cent of 4,300 respondents had purchased counterfeit or fake cosmetic products. Additionally, approximately 22 per cent of consumers reported suffering allergic reactions to cosmetics bought within the last three years.

According to the survey, 23 per cent of consumers purchased cosmetic products from local stalls, 21 per cent bought them from online platforms, and 19 per cent shopped at general and cosmetic stores, with the remainder purchasing from miscellaneous outlets.

Medical experts have also raised alarms regarding skin health in the city. The Karnataka branch of the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists identified over 400 unqualified skincare centres operating across the state, including nearly 200 centres in Bengaluru alone. Dermatologists have noted an increase in patients presenting with facial skin damage caused by steroid-laden formulations.

Although the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation directed strict compliance with the Cosmetics Rules, 2020, the market continues to lack a mandatory vigilance and reporting system for consumer grievances. While the Indian cosmetic industry is projected to reach 34 million dollars in 2026, verification mechanisms at points of sale remain limited.

Experts advise shoppers to examine product packaging and labels closely before buying. Key indicators of genuine products include verified manufacturer names, physical addresses, batch numbers, and clearly printed manufacturing and expiry dates.