Olaplex hair products caused hair loss and scalp injuries, the lawsuit alleges

A group of about 30 consumers are suing popular hair care brand Olaplex, alleging that its products have damaged their hair and scalp, leaving them with bald spots and other injuries.

Olaplex Holdings markets its celebrity endorsed products as a cure for dry or damaged hair, claiming that its formulas safely “restore damaged and damaged hair” and protect against breakage.

Plaintiffs allege that the Olaplex products do the opposite, leaving their hair “dry, brittle, frizzy and full,” according to the lawsuit, filed Thursday in California District Court. One plaintiff said her hair was split and broken so it appeared as if it had been trimmed with a “weed cutter.”

Plaintiffs also allege that Olaplex dismissed their concerns, claiming that hair loss was either normal or due to other causes.

In total, the plaintiffs are seeking more than $75,000 in damages.

Olaplex denies the allegations and defends the safety of their products.

“There are a variety of reasons for hair breakage or hair loss, as medical and scientific experts have publicly stated, including lifestyle, various medical conditions and medications, the aftermath of COVID, skin conditions and more,” the company said in a statement to CBS MoneyWatch.

“Complaints like those mentioned in this article are unfortunately a fact of life in our industry and have been raised against other brands in this category for years,” added Olaplex.

The Food and Drug Administration has received about 25 consumer complaints about Olaplex’s products, citing a public records request, according to Bloomberg.

Shares in publicly traded Olaplex plummeted after news of the lawsuit broke.

A woman who allegedly used Olaplex hair care products shows off the hair loss she allegedly suffered. Legal Center by Amy Davis

According to the lawsuit, Olaplex products contain ingredients called “Lilial” and “Panthenol,” which can lead to conditions that cause hair loss and scalp injuries, including “inflamed, blistered, scaly, or scaly skin.” Lilial is banned in hair and beauty products in Europe.

Despite receiving thousands of complaints, Olaplex has not recalled any of its products, according to the lawsuit. The products are widely available at major retailers like Sephora, Ulta, and Amazon.

Hair loss can be psychologically devastating and lead to depression and eating disorders, particularly in women, the lawsuit states.

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