15 Hidden Clues That Reveal a Product’s Authenticity

In today’s world, counterfeit products are becoming increasingly prevalent, and it’s not always easy to spot them. However, there are several ways to ensure that you’re purchasing authentic products. Here are 15 key indicators to help you identify fake products.

1. The Chanel Classic flap bag

• Real ones have a subtle quilted pattern, not some puffy mess.
• Check if the flap lines up perfectly with the bottom layer.

2. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% peeling solution

• Authentic has a tart scent; fakes might smell sweet and soapy.

3. Nike t-shirts

• Nike logo proportions matter; fakes often mess this up.
• Check for misspelled labels inside, and real ones usually have more than one label.

4. The Air Jordan 11 Retro Cherry

• Look at the stitching and cut; fakes are sloppier.

5. Levi’s

• Real ones have an arched design on the back pockets, and the stitching is orange.
• Watch out for a red tag with just an “R” on fakes.

6. Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil

• Check the color; it should match the brand’s standard yellow.

7. Hermès handbags

• Look for elegant, unchopped letters on the inside print.
• Genuine stitching is flawless, unlike thicker, less refined stitching on fakes.

8. Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

• The real deal has no distinct scent and a slimy texture.

9. Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion

• Check labels for errors or misalignments; genuine ones are precisely aligned.

10. Guess watches

• Watch out for uneven colors, cracks, and lousy smells; genuine straps are high quality.

11. Dior x Air Jordan 1

• Check for inconsistencies in the logo and thicker text on fakes.
• Genuine stitching on the midsole is thicker.

12. AirPods

• Look for spelling errors on packaging; “AirPods” might be miscapitalized on fakes.

13. Pokémon Pearl Version

• Fake copies might be darker, and the Pokémon logo could be thin.

14. iPhone

When purchasing an iPhone, check the screen quality. An authentic iPhone will have a vibrant and high-quality display, whereas a fake one may have a washed-out appearance with dull colors.

• Authentic iPhones have vibrant displays; fakes might look washed out.

15. Toms espadrilles

• If insoles can be removed, they’re likely fake.
• Check the logo balance and stitching; fakes are usually off. The glue on the sides is a red flag.

Learn more ways to spot fake products from a mile away with our next guide.