The Best Way to Avoid Head Lice is to Avoid Head to Head Contact… The Best Way to Avoid an FTC Fine is…. Claim Substantiation…Claim Substantiation….

On September 16th the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) charged Lornamead, Inc. with deceiving consumers with exaggerated claims that its “Lice Shield” shampoo, stick, and spray products would prevent or reduce the risk of getting head lice. On the same date, agreed-upon settlement was posted in which Lornamead will pay $500,000.00 fine and be prohibited from making further deceptive lice-prevention claims. It marketed its product line of Lice Shield claiming that its products containing citronella and other essential oils which would “dramatically reduce” the risk of head lice infestations. These claims were made in print ads, website and banner ads, as well as on the product packaging. The company further claimed THAT Lice Shield products WERE “scientifically shown to repel head lice.” In truth, they did not possess or rely upon a reasonable basis that substantiated these representations. There were no scientific tests which proved that, when used as directed, Lice Shield product significantly reduced the likelihood or change of head lice infestation.