Unmasking Unfair Advertising: Glutathione Products Under Fire in Online Malls

Controversy over Unfair Advertising of Glutathione Products in Online Malls

A recent investigation conducted by the Korea Consumer Agency has shed light on the unfair advertising practices surrounding Glutathione products sold in online malls. The survey, which focused on 100 online advertisements, revealed that over 60% of the ads were found to be false or exaggerated.

Raising Consumer Confusion

Consumers looking for effective skincare products are facing increasing confusion due to the abundance of misleading advertisements and online reviews. Many Glutathione products in the market are found to have lower actual content than advertised or use exaggerated claims, leaving consumers uncertain about which products to choose.

Growing Interest in Ingestible Skincare

Amidst this confusion, there has been a surge in interest in ingestible skincare, particularly products containing collagen and Glutathione. Some consumers find it easier to manage their skincare routine by opting for ingestible products rather than topical applications.

“I consume these products together with my mother. We believe that consuming them is a simpler way to manage our skincare routine, especially since topical application can be challenging,” explains Kim Soo-yeon, a resident of Incheon.

Concerns over Labeling Accuracy

Further investigation into 20 Glutathione products revealed that only half of them accurately labeled the Glutathione content. This inconsistency raises concerns about the transparency and reliability of product information.

“In the case of Glutathione and similar products, the actual effects and efficacy may differ from the direct use of Glutathione. Instead, high yeast extract content is used,” explains Shim Sung-bo, the team leader of the Pharmaceutical Safety Team at the Korea Consumer Agency.

Unrelated to Recent Controversy

The Korea Consumer Agency clarifies that this investigation is unrelated to the recent controversy surrounding a specific online shopping mall. The focus of the survey was solely on the online advertising practices of Glutathione products.

Consumer Awareness and Precautions

Consumers are advised to be cautious of misleading advertisements and to rely on reputable sources and expert advice when considering Glutathione products. Prioritizing products with positive reputations and consulting with professionals can help ensure a reliable and effective skincare routine.

Regulating the Market for Consumer Protection

As the demand for ingestible skincare continues to rise, regulatory agencies are urged to enforce accurate labeling, transparency, and scientific evidence to protect consumers and promote a trustworthy market. This will help consumers make informed choices and maintain confidence in the products they purchase.

Source: JTBC