It has long been believed that women’s self confidence can be damaged by seeing fashion and beauty ads. This was based on a scientific study by Dutch Professor of Psychology, DiederikStapel from the Tilburg University based in the Netherlands.

It has however been revealed that the professor has been falsifying research results in some of his studies. Whether or not the study on women and beauty products was also tainted is not known, but these revelations cast doubt on his research. Investigations are being done to determine the extent of the problem.

So far 30 reports have been found to contain false information. Stapel has been labeled the Lying Dutchman by the Washington Post, a title that has been picked up by numerous other online sources. Stapel was quoted on the University’s website as saying, “I have failed as a scientist and researcher… I feel ashamed for it and have great regret.”