A beauty brand refuses to play by the rules, then wonders why regulators are watching
A company's refusal to engage with self-regulation leads to a rare referral to official authorities.
The story
HigherDose's advertising claims for red light devices were referred to regulators after the company refused to participate in NAD inquiries about their efficacy.
Source: wwd.com
Our reading
The company’s refusal to engage with NAD inquiries is a bold move, but it also means they’re not getting any official validation for their claims. It’s like ordering a steak and then refusing to let the chef taste it before serving.
Now the FDA and FTC get to play catch-up, which is a bit like showing up to a party and then telling the host they’re not invited. The company’s stance is clear: they trust their own marketing more than the industry’s rules.
HigherDose’s decision is a small rebellion, but it also leaves them exposed. If the regulators do act, the company will have to defend its claims without the benefit of a self-regulatory process—like arguing in court without a lawyer.
