Counterfeit cosmetics – including fake Kylie lip kits – seized in LAPD raid test positive for feces

Fake cosmetics being peddled in Los Angeles’ Fashion District have tested positive for high levels of bacteria and feces. 

On Thursday, the LAPD conducted a raid on 21 location in the Santee Alley shopping area and seized $700,000 worth of counterfeit cosmetics. 

The LAPD tweeted pictures from the raid, showing some of the counterfeit cosmetics that were seized, including imitations of the Kylie, Anastasia and MAC make-up brands.

The LAPD seized $700,000 worth of counterfeit cosmetics in a raid on the Fashion District on Thursday. Above, some of the fake make-up seized

Among the batch were imitations of the Kylie, Anastasia and MAC brands

Among the batch were imitations of the Kylie, Anastasia and MAC brands

The LAPD conducted the raid after people complained about getting rashes and bumps. The cosmetics tested positive for high levels of bacteria and feces

The LAPD conducted the raid after people complained about getting rashes and bumps. The cosmetics tested positive for high levels of bacteria and feces

‘Busted!’ Captain Marc Reina tweeted. ‘Major Task Force hits 21 locations in the @LAFashionDist and nets $700,000 in Counterfeit cosmetics found to contain bacteria and human waste. The best price is not always the best deal! #ProtectingOurCommunity’

The department conducted a similar raid back in February, when customers started complaining about getting rashes and bumps. 

After that raid, the cosmetics seized tested positive for high levels of bacteria, including traces of animal feces and urine. 

Counterfeit cosmetics usually get contaminated during production in unsanitary conditions.

The department received more complaints so they conducted another aid this week. 

Again, the cosmetics tested positive for high levels of bacteria and feces. 

Six people were arrested in the raid, who will be charged with trademark violations. Fifteen were served cease and desist orders not to continue selling fake makeup. 

LAPD Captain Ishitani told KTLA that the raid was meant to ‘educate the public of the health and safety concerns of purchasing counterfeit cosmetics.’  

Customs and Border Protection estimated last year that counterfeit cosmetics are costing the industry about $75million a year, according to CBS News.

Not only are these fake cosmetics sold on the street, but there’s also a risk of buying them online through legitimate third-party websites, like Amazon.

Another risk of using fake cosmetics is the threat of chemical or lead poisoning. 

 



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