London police warn of fake make-up dangers

The City of London police have issued a warning about the health risks posed by counterfeit make-up.

Police said on Monday that imitations of brand-name make-up are often produced in unsanitary conditions. They said rat droppings and poison have been found in fake cosmetics and laboratory tests have uncovered poisonous chemicals — including cyanide and human urine — in counterfeit perfume.

They said using such bogus products can cause skin irritation, swelling, rashes and burns and can lead to long-term health problems. They also noted that some counterfeit sun creams offer no protection from the sun.