Amber Hunt

ahunt@enquirer.com

Consumer advocacy group finds high level of lead in counterfeit compact foundation.

Ever spot your favorite makeup brand on sale for half the price? A consumer advocacy group is warning that those too-good-to-be-true prices might not only signify a counterfeit product: They could even be dangerous.

The Counterfeit Report, a California-based outfit that tracks fake and counterfeit products and medications, on Friday announced that it had partnered with a public health and safety organization to test the contents of some fake products disguised as high-end makeup.

NSF International, based in Ann Arbor, Mich., tested two counterfeit products types -- mascara and compact foundation -- from two different sources. The tests uncovered a high level of lead in the counterfeit compact powder, according to The Counterfeit Report. The level was 1,000 times higher than lead levels found in the authentic product.

"While the packaging and appearance of counterfeit products is often deceptively similar, consumers risk exposure to unknown dangerous chemicals in counterfeit products," the agency said in a news release.

While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn't have the legal authority to approve cosmetics before they hit the market, the agency does require that manufacturers ensure the products are safe. That oversight does little for the booming counterfeit business, however. Last year, the Department of Homeland Security seized counterfeit goods valued at more than $1.7 billion at U.S. borders, according to the International AntiCounterfeiting Coalition, based in Washington, D.C.

Cincinnati isn't immune: In February, customs inspectors here seized $1.5 million in counterfeit NFL merchandise during Operation Team Player, a nationwide law-enforcement effort that ultimately netted more than $37 million in fake goods.

Government agencies have specifically warned about counterfeit makeup and fragrances for years. The FBI in January warned that consumers are "risking your health by buying and using products that may contain substandard or even dangerous substances."

Among the warning signs that what you're buying is fake, according to the FBI:

• The packaging differs slightly from the authentic brand.

• The price is either slightly or drastically lower.

• The product's consistency or texture doesn't quite feel or look like the authentic brand.

• It's being sold at a non-authorized retailer, such as a flea market, mall kiosk or over the Internet.