There's an update in the ongoing WEN hair care products saga.
The FDA is investigating 127 reports from customers who complained of "adverse" effects after using WEN by Chaz Dean Cleansing Conditioner products — mainly related to hair loss. According to the FDA's statement, it's the largest number of reports ever associated with a hair-cleansing product. The agency is also investigating more than 21,000 complaints related to Chaz Dean, Inc. and parent company, Gunther Renker, LLC.
From the FDA's press release:
The FDA is investigating reports of hair loss, hair breakage, balding, itching, and rash associated with the use of WEN by Chaz DeanCleansing Conditioner products. While the FDA continues its investigation, consumers should be aware of reactions reported in association with the use of WEN by Chaz Dean Cleansing Conditioner products. Consumers who experience a reaction after using WEN by Chaz Dean Cleansing Conditioner products should stop using the product and consult with their dermatologist or other health care provider. The agency also urges consumers to report to FDA any reactions they may have experienced when using these products.
As previously reported, more than 200 women have joined a class action lawsuit against the company, claiming the products cause hair loss.
This all started in 2014 when Florida resident and nurse practitioner Amy Friedman purchased the WEN Cleansing Conditioner in "Sweet Almond Mint." Friedman claims she lost one third of her hair after using the product. Shortly after, she filed a class action lawsuit against the company.
Of course, every person's sensitivities vary, but you should always "be wary of products promising a miracle," warns Dr. Birnur K. Aral, Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab. "When in doubt, shop products marketed by reputable companies. For instance, we recommend products from Pantene and L'Oreal that have the GH Seal," she explains.
Join Good Housekeeping's fight to make cosmetics safer through FDA evaluation by signing this petition to get the proposed Personal Care Products Safety Act in front of the Senate.
