The Ordinary Hair Serum: How to Spot the Difference Between Original and Fake

The answer lies in the details. But before we dive into that, here's a real story that highlights just how pervasive the problem of counterfeit products has become.

In late 2023, a viral post on social media showed a user comparing two bottles of The Ordinary's Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density. To the untrained eye, they looked almost identical. But after using the fake product for two weeks, her hair began to dry out and fall more frequently. A subsequent investigation revealed that the counterfeit product contained harmful chemicals not present in the original formula.

This incident isn't isolated. More and more customers are reporting similar experiences, leading to an urgent need for awareness about how to distinguish between original and fake versions of The Ordinary's hair serum. So, how can you protect yourself? Here’s a breakdown of what to look out for:

1. Packaging Quality and Print Details

The packaging is often the first place where counterfeiters slip up. The Ordinary is known for its minimalist and sleek design, with clean, clear fonts and high-quality material. Counterfeit packaging, on the other hand, often features slight smudges, off-center text, or faded colors.

A critical place to check is the batch number and expiration date, usually printed on the bottle and box. In the original, these numbers are crisp and aligned, whereas fake versions often have poorly printed or misaligned batch information.

Look at the fonts used: The original product uses a consistent font style across its packaging, whereas fakes may have slight variations. You might notice that the letters are bolder, thinner, or even slanted on counterfeit boxes. These small inconsistencies are a red flag.

2. Bottle Design and Dropper

The dropper on The Ordinary's original hair serum is a key distinguishing feature. It is tightly fitted with a smooth design and doesn’t leak, while counterfeit versions often have a loose fit, resulting in leaking or uneven dispensing of the serum. Furthermore, the glass bottle on the original is sleek, smooth, and weighty, indicating the use of high-quality materials, whereas fakes might feel lighter or have imperfections in the glass.

Another tell-tale sign is the rubber bulb on the dropper. In the original, it's firm and well-fitted, while fake products may have rubber that feels cheap or flimsy. If you notice any discoloration or unusual texture, you’re likely dealing with a counterfeit.

3. The Consistency and Color of the Serum

One of the most significant differences between real and fake products lies in the serum itself. The original serum from The Ordinary has a light, watery consistency that’s easy to spread on your scalp. In contrast, fake products often have a thicker or oily consistency and may leave a greasy residue on your hair. The color of the serum is also crucial; the real serum is clear or has a very slight tint, while fakes may appear cloudy or discolored.

4. Scent

The Ordinary’s hair serum is almost odorless or has a very faint, clean scent. However, counterfeit versions often have a stronger, more chemical smell, sometimes due to the use of inferior or dangerous ingredients. If the product has a pungent or unusual smell, it’s likely not authentic.

5. Price

While it may seem obvious, price is one of the biggest giveaways. If you see The Ordinary’s hair serum being sold at a significantly lower price than usual, be wary. Counterfeit products are often priced at a fraction of the original’s cost to lure unsuspecting buyers. Check the official website or trusted retailers for standard pricing and compare it with the seller’s offer.

6. Seller Reputation and Purchase Source

Where you buy the product from matters. Authentic The Ordinary products should only be purchased from reputable retailers or directly from the brand’s website. Online marketplaces like eBay or unauthorized third-party sellers are hotbeds for counterfeit products. Always check the seller’s reviews and ratings before making a purchase.

7. Batch Code Verification

The Ordinary includes batch numbers on their products for traceability. You can verify the authenticity of your serum by contacting the brand’s customer service or using online batch code checkers. If the batch code doesn’t match the company’s records, you’re dealing with a fake.

8. Unusual Side Effects

If you start using the serum and notice adverse effects like scalp irritation, excessive dryness, or even hair loss, these are signs that the product may be counterfeit. The original serum is formulated to promote hair density and is generally well-tolerated by most users. Unusual side effects could indicate the presence of harmful chemicals or poor-quality ingredients in fake products.

Why the Fake Products Are Dangerous

Counterfeit beauty products are more than just a waste of money—they can be dangerous to your health. Fake versions of The Ordinary’s hair serum often contain harmful substances, such as unregulated preservatives, harsh chemicals, or allergens. These ingredients can lead to skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even long-term damage to your scalp and hair.

The Bigger Picture: The Counterfeit Beauty Market

The rise of fake beauty products is a global issue, fueled by the demand for popular and effective products like The Ordinary's hair serum. As brands like The Ordinary gain cult followings, counterfeiters see an opportunity to profit by selling cheap knock-offs to unsuspecting consumers.

In recent years, authorities in various countries have cracked down on the sale of counterfeit beauty products, but the problem persists. Counterfeiters are becoming more sophisticated in replicating packaging and even mimicking formulas. This means that customers must stay vigilant and educate themselves on how to identify fake products.

In conclusion, protecting yourself from purchasing counterfeit The Ordinary hair serum requires attention to detail. By focusing on the packaging, dropper quality, serum consistency, and seller reputation, you can minimize the risk of falling victim to fake products. Always prioritize buying from authorized retailers and report any suspicious sellers to protect others from counterfeit goods.