Olaplex Has Been Sued for Allegedly Causing Hair Loss

Whether you’ve seen the line in your hair salon or heard about it from your favorite celebs, Olaplex is a household name when it comes to haircare. Founded in 2014 and aimed at safely repairing broken bonds and revitalizing hair, Olaplex has gained massive success since its inception, gaining endorsements from A-listers like Kim Kardashian and Drew Barrymore. But, last week, the company found itself in hot water after 28 women filed a lawsuit claiming the products were detrimental to their hair.

Filed last week in a California district court, the plaintiffs in the suit against Olaplex claim that the brand’s products have caused them to lose their hair—”in some cases more than half”—as well as resulting in bald spots and leaving the hair generally “dry, brittle, frizzy, and dull.” The suit also revealed that some of the plaintiffs recalled experiencing “extreme itchiness, rashes, yeast infections, bacterial infections, burning, open sores” as a result of using Olaplex products, claiming that the products contain lilial and panthenol which are known to lead to hair loss, blistered skin and scalp irritation.

The lawyers on the case say that they have carefully considered any and all other factors that could be contributing to the women’s hair issues, but have stated confidently that “the products alone are to blame.” The 28 plaintiffs are seeking $75,000 in collective damages.

As for Olaplex’s response, the company released a statement on their Instagram saying that they are “prepared to vigorously defend our company, our brand, and our products against these baseless accusation” and also reaffirmed that “independent third-party laboratory test results show that Olaplex products are safe and effective.”