Dermacol Foundation Original vs. Fake

One of the questions we get most often is how to tell an original Dermacol product from a fake — usually the famous Dermacol Make-up Cover. Some imitations look surprisingly convincing at first glance, and the difference often only becomes obvious once you open the tube and apply the product. Here are a few tips to help you spot a counterfeit before it ever touches your skin.

Why fakes are a real problem

Make-up Cover is one of the most counterfeited foundations in the world, and buying a fake is more than just disappointing. Imitations are not dermatologically tested and may contain questionable ingredients that can leave your skin dry, red, or irritated. Some people react right away, others only after longer use — and once your skin is upset, it can take a while to calm it down again.

Even in the best case, the pigments in a fake simply don't perform. The coverage that made the original famous just isn't there.

Original vs. fake at a glance

In the picture below you can compare a genuine tube with a counterfeit one.

Check the box

Dermacol has produced two versions of the box: the classic black one with gold lettering, and a white-and-pink limited edition released for the company's 50th anniversary. On a genuine box you will always find:

• "MADE IN CZECH REPUBLIC" or "MADE IN EU" printed on the packaging

• The manufacturer listed as Dermacol, a.s., Výtvarná 4, Prague 6, Czech Republic

• A package leaflet inside, printed on high-quality paper similar to the leaflets that come with medicines — if the leaflet looks like plain printer paper, be careful

The biggest giveaway: the tube and the texture

An original Make-up Cover tube is firm and doesn't wrinkle on its own. Its finish is glossy with a clear shimmering gold tone, and it clearly shows the manufacturer information, the shade number, and the expiration date. An unopened original tube weighs 36 grams.

A fake tube is soft and bends easily, the gold looks dull rather than shimmering, and you'll often find typos in the printed text. Once opened, the difference is unmistakable: the color doesn't match the shade number, the texture is runny, and the coverage is poor.

If the price looks too good to be true, it is

Price is one of the easiest red flags. Genuine Make-up Cover simply cannot sell for a dollar or two — the production cost alone is higher than that. Only resellers who buy directly in the Czech Republic can offer the lowest legitimate prices, so be cautious with marketplace listings that undercut everyone else, especially from unknown overseas vendors.

Our recommendation

Buy your cosmetics from authorized dealers. With Dermacol products in particular, Czech distributors are the safest choice — they source directly from the manufacturer and can genuinely offer fair prices. Feel free to share this post with your friends so fewer people end up with a fake.

Mini FAQ

What is the fastest way to spot a fake Make-up Cover?
Check the tube: an original is firm with a shimmering gold finish and weighs 36 g unopened. A soft, dull, bendable tube is a fake.

Are counterfeit foundations dangerous?
They can be. Fakes are not dermatologically tested and may cause dryness, redness, or rashes — sometimes only after longer use.

Where can I safely buy the original?
From authorized dealers and Czech distributors who source directly from Dermacol.

Where to buy

You can order the genuine Dermacol Make-up Cover directly from us at fabledlook.com — we ship internationally, and if you're not sure about your shade, just message us and we'll be happy to help.