Over the past few years, Olaplex has emerged as a leading name in the haircare industry, gaining widespread popularity for its innovative products. However, the brand is currently embroiled in the Olaplex lawsuit that has raised questions about the safety of its products.
In this article, let’s explore the details of the ongoing Olaplex lawsuit, its background, and the current status.
Background on Olaplex lawsuit
Since its start in 2014, Olaplex has revolutionized the haircare market with its patented bond-building technology. The brand’s products, designed to repair broken hair bonds, have led to the creation of a whole new category in haircare – “bond repair” – and have found numerous imitators over the years.
The current controversy around Olaplex stems from a class-action lawsuit filed in February 2023 by nearly 30 consumers.
The plaintiffs accuse Olaplex of negligence and false advertising, alleging that the brand’s products contain irritants and allergens that have caused them hair loss and dry, brittle hair.
The lawsuit specifically calls out two ingredients in Olaplex products – lilial and panthenol – as potential irritants.
Lilial, a fragrance ingredient, was used in small amounts in Olaplex’s No. 3 Hair Perfector until the brand phased it out in 2022. Panthenol, a form of vitamin B5, is a common ingredient in many hair care products.
While lilial has been classified as “reprotoxic” by the EU’s European Commission, there is no direct evidence linking its use to infertility in humans. Panthenol, on the other hand, is derived from vitamin B5, a natural constituent of hair, and has not been linked to any adverse effects.
Olaplex’s Response
Olaplex has categorically denied all the allegations, saying that its products do not cause hair loss or hair breakage.
The brand has backed its claims by publicly releasing the results of Human Repeat Insult Patch Tests (HRIPT), independent third-party laboratory tests that are considered industry-standard for establishing the safety of skincare and haircare products.
The Impact of the Olaplex Lawsuit
The litigation has taken a toll on the brand’s reputation and stock prices. Since the lawsuit became public, Olaplex’s stock has seen a significant decline.
However, the brand has been proactive in countering the negative publicity. Olaplex CEO JuE Wong has been vocal in defending the company’s products, reassuring customers about their safety, and promising to vigorously fight the baseless accusations.
The Olaplex lawsuit is not an isolated incident in the beauty industry. In recent years, several hair care brands, including DevaCurl, It’s a 10, and Unilever, have faced similar lawsuits over alleged hair loss and scalp irritation caused by their products.
Expert Opinions
Cosmetic chemists and experts in consumer protection laws have weighed in on the controversy. While some laud Olaplex for its transparency and commitment to product safety, others caution against drawing conclusions based on the allegations in the lawsuit.
They argue that ingredients alone cannot determine a product’s safety, and the final formulation plays a crucial role.
Olaplex Lawsuit Compensation
As there have been no finalized Olaplex lawsuits, it remains uncertain what amount of compensation may result from these legal actions.
In the initial case in early 2023, plaintiffs sought a total compensation of $75,000. While this may not be considered substantial, it currently serves as the only reference point available.
Usually, compensation scales with the severity of the injuries suffered. The plaintiffs in the initial case reported issues such as hair loss and skin irritation. In the event that claims regarding fertility emerge, it is anticipated that they may carry higher value compared to cosmetic claims.
A potential indicator for settlement amounts could be seen from the recent resolution of the Church & Dwight case related to Batiste dry shampoo, which involved benzene, a chemical alleged to be present in some Olaplex products. This case concluded with a $2.5 million settlement.
Should more serious health-related concerns be raised, settlement amounts are likely to increase. Claims involving reproductive cancer or infertility in other cases have previously settled within the range of thousands to millions of dollars. But, these cases are often challenging to substantiate and typically conclude after long legal battles.
How to Initiate an Olaplex Lawsuit?
If you believe you have sustained injuries due to Olaplex products, your first course of action is to consult with an attorney.
Lawyers specializing in personal injury and mass tort cases possess the expertise required for such matters. Given the complexity of class action and MDL cases, it is advisable to seek legal representation from professionals experienced in handling similar cases.
Most personal injury lawyers offer a free initial consultation, allowing you to assess the viability of your case without incurring upfront costs.
The subsequent step involves gathering supporting documentation for your claim, which can take various forms. Your attorney will provide guidance, but common evidence includes:
1. Proof of purchase: Receipts, emails, or online orders demonstrating the purchase of Olaplex products, especially if a specific product is implicated in the injury.
2. Photographs: Visual evidence depicting damage to your hair and scalp can be beneficial. Reviewing your camera reel and social media posts may reveal relevant images.
3. Emails or text messages: Communication records via email or text can serve as valuable evidence in court.
It is important to avoid discussing the case with anyone without consulting your attorney first. Even if you have not retained legal representation, refrain from conversations about the case.
The Road Ahead
Despite the legal battle, Olaplex continues to stand by the safety and efficiency of its products.
However, the ongoing lawsuit serves as a stark reminder of the complex challenges facing the beauty industry. Brands must navigate not just the technical aspects of product formulation but also the legal and reputational risks.
As the Olaplex case unfolds, it will undoubtedly offer valuable lessons for other players in the industry.
