It’s no news that Nigeria is a dumping ground for many sub-par products and illegal activities. But with the wave of hair care (especially natural hair) in the last 5 years, the influx of fake products in the market has skyrocketed.
Recently we had a customer purchase the Tresemme moisture rich shampoo from us, the next day she messaged to say ” Wow seems I’ve been buying fake from the market, the difference is clear. This is much thicker, a different scent and the bottle is heavier” She then added yours was N800 higher but I see the Value now. This is just one of the many messages we receive.
The sad part of this menace is that no brand is spared. From Cantu, to Mielle Organics, to Revlon, to creme of nature, to shea moisture, Sunny isle and more recently Creative image (makers of Adore dye) there is a fake version of almost every popular brand if you look carefully .
The importers/makers of these counterfeit products are ruthless. They not only cut corners, they recreate the exact packaging/labels and market them ferociously.
We had the public relation executive of of shea moisture and Revlon speak to us about their trip to trade fair complex in Lagos, Nigeria. She said the level of fake is appalling. They have reported to SON and would soon ambush these marketers by arrest and setting the products on fire to ensure it’s not recirculated into the market .
Here are 4 ways to hedge yourself against this risk. we’ve titled it the 4Ps
Pricing: Sometime it’s too good to be true, check the manufacturers website for the retail price, use your discretion to add any possible expenses (e.g import charges) then add profit. With this estimation see if the price tallies. If way cheaper than that there is a huge red flag. Is it fake, is it stolen goods or the vendor is having a clear out sale.
Packaging or Print quality: If the packaging looks a bit shoddy, the font looks pixelated, or any inconsistencies with the colours or image saturation (Too red or too blue) that’s another red flag. Check that the barcodes are consistent with the release notes on the producers product information page.
Product: The smell, the texture, the weight . Some counterfeits are so explicit that the packaging looks just like the original, however the proof is in the pudding. When you buy products open it on the spot, smell it, check if anything is off. Do a strand test. In the event it’s a fake product speak with the seller. Even if you can’t get a refund you are at least more knowledgeable and know where NOT to shop.
Probe (Research and Ask questions): There’s nothing wrong in asking manufacturers about their licensed distributors, or even asking friends to have a look before you make a purchase. Ask a retailer about their distribution channels, probe their product knowledge, ask if they can guarantee lifespan or authenticity.
We hope these tips are helpful, and allow you to apply more thought in your buying process.
As always at Naija Naturals we stock only quality products straight from the source. No unverified middle men and we offer 100% authenticity guarantee on all products stocked.
Love and light,
Naija naturas
