“Buying Trending Serums Online? Red Flags to Watch For”

“Buying Trending Serums Online? Red Flags to Watch For”

Because Healthy Skin Needs More Than Just Trendy Bottles

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These days, everyone’s trying the “viral” serum they saw on Instagram, YouTube, or from a friend’s “before-after” photo.

Vitamin C, niacinamide, salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, snail mucin… every week, there’s a new hero!

But before you click ‘Add to Cart’, stop and ask:

Is this serum actually good for your skin — or just another online mistake waiting to happen?

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🧴 Why Are Serums So Popular?

Serums are light, absorb quickly, and are packed with active ingredients.

They can give great results — but only when used correctly.

Problem is, online trends often don’t show the full picture.

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🚩 Red Flags to Watch for While Buying Serums Online

1. Too-Good-To-Be-True Claims

“100% clear skin in 3 days!”

“Remove all pigmentation in one use!”

“Miracle glow overnight!”

❗Red flag: If it sounds like magic, it’s usually marketing.

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2. No Ingredients Listed Properly

You check the product page — but there’s no full ingredient list.

Or, they just mention “Vitamin C + Love + Care” 👀

❗Red flag: You don’t know what else is inside. Fragrances? Alcohol? Harsh preservatives?

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3. Fake or Copycat Brands

You see a serum bottle that looks like a famous brand… but it’s just ₹199.

❗Red flag: Many fake or duplicate products are sold online under names that sound similar to trusted brands — but are totally different inside.

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4. No Reviews, or Only Paid Reviews

You see only 5-star ratings and “Amazing product!” comments, all from users with no profile pics or weird names.

❗Red flag: Reviews can be fake. Look for detailed, balanced reviews. Or better, ask a dermatologist.

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5. No Patch Test Instructions

Every active ingredient serum should guide you to do a patch test first.

❗Red flag: Brands that don’t even mention skin reactions or how to test it — may not care about your safety.

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6. Mixing Actives Without Warning

A serum that combines 4-5 strong actives (like Vitamin C + Retinol + AHA + BHA)… with no explanation?

❗Red flag: This cocktail may burn your skin. Serums need to be combined carefully.

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7. No Return Policy or Expiry Date

You can’t return it. The expiry date is missing. Or it’s “MFG 2022”.

❗Red flag: You might be putting expired, spoiled, or stored-wrong product on your face.

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👩‍⚕️ Dermatologist’s Tip:

Buying trending products is not wrong — but buy smart.

Not every serum is made for your:

• Skin type (dry/oily/sensitive)

• Skin tone

• Age

• Existing skin conditions (like acne or melasma)

• Current skincare routine

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✅ What to Look for Instead

• Transparent ingredient list

• Proper packaging (especially for Vitamin C and retinol – should be in dark bottles)

• Clear instructions (how to apply, how often)

• Reviews from real users

• Dermatologist-approved brands

• Patch test advice

• MRP, MFG, and expiry clearly printed

• Return/Refund policy if you’re buying from unknown websites

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🛑 Just Because It’s Trending, Doesn’t Mean It’s Safe

Your skin is not a trend.

It needs products based on science, not social media filters.

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💬 Want to try a serum but not sure what to pick?

Book a skin consult at Dr. Rizwan’s Skin, Cosmetic & Laser Clinic, Shahjahanpur.

Let’s find the serum that suits your skin — not your Instagram feed.

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#SerumScamsOnline

#SmartSkinCareShopping

#DrRizwanDermTips

#TrendingButSafe