Wen Hair Care, a line of sulfate-free hair care products created by celebrity stylist Chaz Dean, has become the subject of a class action lawsuit initiated by more than 200 women across the United States. The women are claiming that the popular product was responsible for severe hair loss, with many ending up with very visible bald spots, reported the Daily Beast.
The women are accusing Wen by Chaz Dean, as well as its infomercial owner, Guthy-Renker, for knowingly selling products with ingredients that cause acute hair loss. The hair loss was reportedly widespread, with a number of the 200 plaintiffs in 40 states stating they are representing children.
Wen products are very successful, counting celebrities such as Brooke Shields and Alyssa Milano as official endorsers. The products have also gained the top spot in online stores such as Amazon, becoming a cash cow for Guthy-Renker, who reportedly raked in $100 million worth of revenue in two years, according to the Daily Mail.
Though complaints about the severe hair loss side effect of the product have been posted online, Guthy-Renker has allegedly blocked negative comments and reviews from online forums. Despite the case being filed and the thousands of other potential plaintiffs, however, the infomercial company stated that it still stands completely behind its product.
"Importantly, there is no scientific evidence whatsoever to support any claim that our hair care products caused anyone to lose their hair. There are many reasons why individuals may lose their hair, all unrelated to Wen hair care products. We intend to vigorously contest the allegations made against our products," said Guthy-Renker in a statement, according to Jezebel.
The two parties are currently under negotiations in an attempt to settle the matter outside of court. Regardless of the result, however, for thousands of women across the U.S., their crowning glory will never be the same.
