By: Nick Wilson – Fin24

The US skincare and fragrance brand Sol de Janeiro has been a sustained viral sensation on social media, particularly TikTok, for some time.

The brand – which is inspired by Brazilian beach culture and majority-owned by the French group L'Occitane - is known for wildy popular products like its "Brazilian Bum Bum" creams and oils, and a line of fragrance mists. 

So, there was a great deal of excitement when Dis-Chem started selling its products in South Africa recently. According to at least one social media post, they sold out so quickly that customers were put on a waiting list.

But they will most likely wait in vain as these products are not likely to return soon. Dis-Chem has removed all Sol de Janerio products from its shelves and is currently probing allegations that its supplier was providing it with counterfeit goods.

This followed many videos on social media where South Africans questioned whether they bought the real deal. 

In one post on X (previously Twitter), a users claims a specific Sol de Janeiro body mist spray had a "completely different scent to the ones purchased overseas".

There were also complaints that the fragrances were not long-lasting.

News24 journalist Marvin Charles, who himself purchased the Sol de Janeiro unisex fragrance from Dis-Chem, said he too became suspicious that the product was a counterfeit because the smell evaporated rapidly after application.

"I would spray it on usually in the morning, but within 20 minutes of me getting to work, you would not be able to smell that I had applied any fragrance."

Responding to detailed questions from News24 about the matter, Dis-Chem said on Wednesday it was "aware of allegations pertaining to the legitimacy of Sol de Janeiro products".

"As a precautionary measure, and pending further investigation, a decision was made to postpone the restocking of Sol de Janeiro products from its shelves."

It said it prides itself on being a "responsible retailer, underpinned by an ethical supply chain" and is "committed to bringing the best quality and range of beauty and cosmetic brands to its valued customers".

Dis-Chem did not disclose further information on the matter or respond to questions by News24 about the supplier.

In one X post, a customer asked if they could return the products because they "believe they are counterfeit".

Responding on X to the post, Dis-Chem said at the time it "would like to clarify" that it didn't "keep any counterfeit products", adding the customer was welcome to visit a branch with proof of purchase for assistance with a return.

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