Consumers who use Old Spice deodorant products are accusing the beauty and health giant of covering up “thousands” of reports of painful allergic reactions caused by using the products.
Old Spice is marketed to active men to mask their manly scent between showers.
In a class action lawsuit filed against Procter & Gamble, the makers of Old Spice, victims say the deodorant sticks caused “hundreds, if not thousands” of injuries ranging from rashes to 3rd degree chemical burns.
“Indeed, the problem is rampant, and rather than acknowledge the serious issue, Defendant is concealing it in order to continue selling the product and reaping windfall profits,” an attorney for the plaintiffs wrote in court documents.
“Deodorant is not intended to cause burning, rashes, irritation and other discomfort,” the documents noted.
The lawsuit includes a complaint by Rodney Colley, of Alexandria, Va., who says he suffered rashes and chemical burns after using the Old Spice Pure Sport High Endurance stick.
Photos included in the court documents shows the extent of Colley’s armpit injuries.
According to the NY Daily News, court documents name 13 Old Spice deodorant products — including Swagger Classic Fresh and Pure Sport High Endurance brand — as potentially “defective” and dangerous products.
Court docs included comments from angry consumers who posted images online.
“My son has been using Old Spice Swagger Deodorant and has a rash in his armpit that is red and burning,” wrote one social media user.
“Shame on you Procter and Gamble for continuing to produce this product with all these reviews, and without warning!!!”
A Procter & Gamble spokesman told the Cincinnati Enquirer only “a small number of men” have suffered allergic reactions to its products, which the company attributes to “irritation due to alcohol sensitivity.”
The lawsuit is asking for “at least $25,000 in damages for each Old Spice victim.”
