Hair care should make you look better, not worse. Yet several major shampoo brands are now facing serious legal challenges from consumers who claim these products caused hair loss, scalp irritation, and other injuries. These lawsuits highlight growing concerns about potentially harmful ingredients in everyday hair care products.
The Hidden Dangers in Your Shower
When you lather up with shampoo, you expect clean, healthy hair, not thinning strands or an irritated scalp. Unfortunately, thousands of consumers report experiencing exactly these problems after using certain popular brands. Many lawsuits center around specific preservatives and chemicals that may cause adverse reactions.
The primary culprit in many of these cases is DMDM hydantoin, a formaldehyde-releasing preservative. Formaldehyde is classified as a known human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. When DMDM hydantoin comes into contact with water, it releases small amounts of formaldehyde, which can cause scalp irritation, allergic reactions, and potentially contribute to hair loss in sensitive individuals.
1. OGX (Johnson & Johnson)
Johnson & Johnson’s OGX line of shampoos has faced multiple lawsuits since 2021. Plaintiffs allege that OGX products contain DMDM hydantoin despite the company’s claims of using safe, natural ingredients like argan oil and biotin.
According to a lawsuit filed by Larissa Whipple, she experienced “severe hair loss” after using OGX Biotin + Collagen Shampoo. The lawsuit states that Johnson & Johnson was aware of the risks associated with DMDM hydantoin as early as 2012 and had pledged to remove formaldehyde-releasing preservatives from its products by 2015; however, it continued to use the ingredient in OGX products after acquiring the brand in 2016.
In September 2021, Johnson & Johnson announced it would reformulate OGX products to remove DMDM hydantoin, but did not issue a recall for existing products on shelves.
2. TRESemmé (Unilever)
Unilever faces similar allegations regarding its TRESemmé Keratin Smooth line. A lawsuit filed by Holly Schafer claims she experienced “hair loss, thinning hair, and scalp irritation” while using TRESemmé products containing DMDM hydantoin.
The lawsuit alleges that Unilever falsely advertised the products as “deeply nourishing” and “gently cleansing,” while failing to warn consumers about the potential risks associated with formaldehyde exposure. According to court documents, Unilever has been aware of these risks for over a decade but continued to use the ingredient.
3. Monday Haircare
Monday Shampoo, a brand known for its sleek pink packaging and affordable pricing, is facing growing consumer complaints about hair loss and scalp irritation. As of early 2025, no formal lawsuits have been filed; however, the mounting complaints have sparked considerable attention.
The company maintains that reported issues represent only about 0.02% of the 1.8 million bottles sold. However, consumers continue to share their negative experiences on social media platforms, with many claiming significant hair damage within days or weeks of using the products.
4. Olaplex
Luxury haircare brand Olaplex is facing a lawsuit from over 100 customers, who allege that its products have caused hair loss, scalp injuries, and bald spots. Filed in February 2023, the lawsuit claims Olaplex products contain harsh chemicals, including lilial (a known sensitizer linked to infertility) and panthenol, which can cause allergic contact dermatitis.
Despite Olaplex’s marketing claims that its products are “scientifically proven,” free from harsh chemicals, and “safe for all hair,” plaintiffs argue the products are “unreasonably dangerous” and fail to meet minimum cosmetic industry standards.
Yeni Melchiore, a 31-year-old plaintiff from Santa Monica, told Spectrum News that she experienced significant hair loss after using Olaplex products: “At first, it was just like a little bit right here and that’s why I thought my hair was receding and then one day, it was just like, gone.”
5. Native Shampoo
Native, known for promoting “clean and natural” hair care, faces legal controversy over claims that its products contain harmful substances linked to hair loss. The Native Shampoo lawsuit alleges false advertising and consumer deception regarding the brand’s “natural” and “chemical-free” marketing claims.
According to LawPractical.com, “The Native Shampoo lawsuit has the potential to set significant legal precedents in the realm of consumer protection and product labeling.”
6. Wen by Chaz Dean
One of the earliest high-profile hair care lawsuits involved Wen by Chaz Dean. Since 2014, the brand has faced multiple class-action lawsuits alleging that its cleansing conditioners caused significant hair loss and scalp irritation. In 2016, the company settled for $26 million, though it denied any wrongdoing.
7. Suave (Unilever)
Unilever’s Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion line was recalled in 2012 due to complaints of hair loss and scalp irritation, resulting in a $10.2 million settlement in 2014. This case set a precedent for later lawsuits against other brands containing similar ingredients.
Protecting Your Hair and Health
As these lawsuits progress, consumers should be vigilant about the products they use. Check ingredient lists for potentially harmful preservatives, such as DMDM hydantoin, and be cautious of products that claim to be “natural” without substantiation.
If you experience unusual hair loss or scalp irritation after using a hair care product, discontinue use immediately and consult a dermatologist for further evaluation. Document your symptoms with photos and keep the product packaging for reference.
Have you experienced adverse effects from any of these shampoo brands? Share your experience in the comments below.
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