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WEN lawsuit & answer 110314

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    MICHAEL FLANNERY (SBN 196266)[email protected] GILBERT & LADUCA, LLP11620 Wilshire BlvdSuite 900

    Los Angeles, CA 90025Telephone: (202) 789-3960Fax: (202) 789-1813

    Attorneys for Plaintiffs

    [Additional Counsel on Signature Page]

    UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

    CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA

    AMY FRIEDMAN, JUDI MILLER,and KRYSTAL HENRY-MCARTHUR, on behalf ofthemselves and all others similarlysituated,

    Plaintiffs,

    v.

    GUTHY-RENKER LLC,

    Defendant. 

    Case No.: 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR

    CLASS ACTION COMPLAINTFOR:

    1. 

    BREACH OF WARRANTY 2. VIOLATION OF CALIFORNIA

    UNFAIR COMPETITION LAW,Business & Professions Code§17200 et seq. 

    3. 

    VIOLATION OF CALIFORNIAFALSE ADVERTISING LAW,Business & Professions Code§17500 et seq. 

    4. 

    COMMON COUNTS/ASSUMPSI5. NEGLIGENCE — FAILURE TO

    WARN;6.

     

    NEGLIGENCE — FAILURE TOTEST; and

    7. 

    STRICT PRODUCTS LIABILITY

    DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 34 Filed 11/03/14 Page 1 of 32 Page ID #:153

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    LEWIS WAGNER, LLPDina M. Cox (admitted pro hac vice)[email protected] Indiana Avenue, Suite 200Indianapolis, IN 46202Telephone: 317-237-0500Fax: 317-630-2799

    LATHAM & WATKINS LLPDavid J. Schindler (Bar No. 130490)[email protected] M. Jackson (Bar No# 257554)

     [email protected] South Grand AvenueLos Angeles, CA 90071Telephone: 213-891-1234Fax: 213-891-8763

     Attorneys for DefendantGuthy-Renker LLC

    UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

    CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA

    AMY FRIEDMAN and JUDIMILLER, on behalf of themselvesand all others similarly situated,

    Plaintiffs,

    v.

    GUTHY-RENKER LLC,

    Defendant.

    Case No. 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR

    DEFENDANT GUTHY-RENKER

    LLC’S ANSWER TO PLAINTIFF’S

    FIRST AMENDED CLASS ACTION

    COMPLAINT 

    Judge: Hon. Otis D. Wright, IIAction filed: July 31, 2014Trial Date: Not Set

    DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 1 of 29 Page ID #:325

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    Defendant Guthy-Renker LLC (“Guthy-Renker”), by counsel, hereby

    responds to the First Amended Class Action Complaint and Demand for Jury Trial

    filed by Plaintiffs Amy Friedman and Judi Miller (“Plaintiffs”) as follows. The

    numbered paragraphs correspond to the numbering of the allegations in Plaintiffs’

    complaint.

    ANSWER

    NATURE OF THE ACTION 

    1.  Guthy-Renker admits that Plaintiffs purport to bring this matter as a

     putative class action seeking the relief enumerated, but Guthy-Renker denies that

    this matter is appropriate for class action treatment. Guthy-Renker lacks

    knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of all remaining

    allegations contained in Paragraph 1 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint and

    therefore must deny them.

    2.  Guthy-Renker admits that the quoted language has appeared on its

    website. Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 2

    of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    3.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 3 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    4.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 4 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    5.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 5

    of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    6.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 6

    of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 2 of 29 Page ID #:326

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    7.  To the extent that Plaintiffs’ allegations in Paragraph 7 of the First

    Amended Complaint reference insurance or settlement negotiations, Guthy-Renker

    objects to those allegations because they are irrelevant and inadmissible. Guthy-

    Renker admits that Plaintiff Friedman engaged in communications with Guthy-

    Renker’s customer service representatives, and that Guthy-Renker asked questions

    of Friedman to gain more information about her experience with the product

    Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 7 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    8.  Guthy-Renker admits that it has not recalled the WEN® Cleansing

    Conditioner. Guthy-Renker denies that the product causes hair loss or that

    customers have otherwise been damaged. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining

    allegations contained in Paragraph 8 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    9.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 9

    of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint and therefore denies them.

    10.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    10 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    11.  Guthy-Renker admits that Plaintiffs purport to bring this matter as a

     putative class action, but Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for

    class action treatment.

    JURISDICTION AND VENUE 

    12.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment.

    13.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment, and Guthy-Renker denies that it engaged in unlawful practices. Guthy-

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 3 of 29 Page ID #:327

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    3

    Renker admits that venue is proper. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations

    contained in Paragraph 13 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    14.  Guthy-Renker admits that certain of its terms and conditions associated

    with online purchases in the U.S. have dictated that the laws of the state of

    California govern the purchase. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations

    contained in Paragraph 14 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    PARTIES

    15.  Guthy-Renker lacks knowledge or information sufficient to form a

     belief as to the truth of the allegations contained in Paragraph 15 of Plaintiffs

    Complaint and therefore must deny them.

    16. 

    Guthy-Renker lacks knowledge or information sufficient to form a

     belief as to the truth of the allegations contained in Paragraph 16 of Plaintiffs

    Complaint and therefore must deny them.

    17.  Pursuant to the Court’s February 27, 2015 Order Granting in Part and

    Denying in Part Defendant’s Motion to Dismiss (Dkt. 41), Krystal Henry-

    McArthur’s claims were dismissed. No response to Paragraph 17 from Guthy-

    Renker is necessary.

    18.  Guthy-Renker admits that its principal place of business is located at

    3340 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica, California and that it has transacted business

    in this judicial district. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in

    Paragraph 18 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    19.  Guthy-Renker admits that certain of its terms and conditions associated

    with online purchases in the U.S. have dictated that the laws of the state of

    California govern the purchase. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations

    contained in Paragraph 19 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 4 of 29 Page ID #:328

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    4

    COMMON FACTS 

    20.  Guthy-Renker admits the allegations contained in Paragraph 20 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    21.  Guthy-Renker admits that the quoted language appears on its website

    and that it has been in operation since 1988. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining

    allegations contained in Paragraph 21 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    22.  Guthy-Renker admits that its website contains or has contained the

    statements quoted in Paragraph 22. Guthy-Renker denies that its statements are

    false or misleading. Because Plaintiffs have failed to identify the “marketing

    material” to which they refer, Guthy-Renker lacks knowledge or information

    sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the remaining allegations contained in

    Paragraph 22 of Plaintiffs’ Complaint and therefore must deny them.

    23.  The written instructions for use received by Plaintiffs speak for

    themselves.

    24.  To the extent the allegations of Paragraph 24 refer to written

    instructions for use received by Plaintiffs, they speak for themselves. Guthy-

    Renker denies that its instructions for use are false or misleading, or that the

     product is dangerous or causes hair loss.

    25.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    25 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    26.  To the extent that Plaintiffs’ allegations in Paragraph 26 of the First

    Amended Complaint pose a rhetorical question, Guthy-Renker objects to those

    allegations because they are improper pleading allegations and irrelevant. Guthy-

    Renker admits that its website references or has referenced the study results as

    quoted. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 26

    of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 5 of 29 Page ID #:329

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    26.1  Guthy-Renker admits that the WEN® Cleansing Conditioner is

    manufactured and sold in multiple formulations. Guthy-Renker admits that the

    “study” quoted in Paragraph 26 (the second Paragraph 26 referenced in Plaintiffs’

    First Amended Complaint) applies to the four WEN® Cleansing Conditioner

    formulations referenced by Plaintiffs. Guthy-Renker admits that the products

    contain some similar ingredients. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations

    contained in Paragraph 26 (the second Paragraph 26 referenced in Plaintiffs’ First

    Amended Complaint).

    27.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    27 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    28.  Guthy-Renker admits that its product is free of defects in design or

    manufacture and that it is safe and fit for its ordinary and intended use. Guthy-

    Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 28 of Plaintiffs’

    First Amended Complaint.

    29.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 29 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    30.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    30 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    PLAINTIFF FRIEDMAN’S EXPERIENCE 

    31.  Guthy-Renker admits that Plaintiff Amy Friedman purchased a WEN®

    Hair Care Basic Kit containing WEN® Sweet Almond Mint Cleansing Conditioner

    in January 2014 for $29.95. Guthy-Renker denies that the product is dangerous or

    causes hair loss, and therefore no warning is or was required. Guthy-Renker lacks

    1  Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint appears to have been numbered incorrectly, as the preceding paragraph is numbered the same as this paragraph.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 6 of 29 Page ID #:330

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    knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth all remaining

    allegations contained in Paragraph 31 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint and

    therefore must deny them.

    32.  Guthy-Renker denies that the product is dangerous or causes hair loss

    Guthy-Renker lacks knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the

    truth of all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 32 of Plaintiffs’ First

    Amended Complaint and therefore must deny them.

    PLAINTIFF MILLER’S EXPERIENCE 

    33.  Guthy-Renker admits that Plaintiff Judi Miller purchased WEN® Hair

    Care Basic Kits containing WEN® Sweet Almond Mint Cleansing Conditioner in

    June 2011 over the telephone. Guthy-Renker admits that Plaintiff Miller received

    additional shipments of the product up until approximately 2014. Guthy-Renker

    lacks knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of all

    remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 33 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended

    Complaint and therefore must deny them.

    34.  Guthy-Renker denies that the product is dangerous or causes hair loss.

    Guthy-Renker lacks knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the

    truth of all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 34 of Plaintiffs’ First

    Amended Complaint and therefore must deny them.

    35.  Guthy-Renker denies that the product is dangerous or causes hair loss.

    Guthy-Renker is informed and believes that Plaintiff Miller contacted the FDA

    Guthy-Renker lacks knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the

    truth of all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 35 of Plaintiffs’ First

    Amended Complaint and therefore must deny them.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 7 of 29 Page ID #:331

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    PLAINTIFF HENRY-MCARTHUR’S EXPERIENCE

    36.  Pursuant to the Court’s February 27, 2015 Order Granting in Part and

    Denying in Part Defendant’s Motion to Dismiss (Dkt. 41), Krystal Henry-

    McArthur’s claims were dismissed. No response from Guthy-Renker is necessary.

    37.  Pursuant to the Court’s February 27, 2015 Order Granting in Part and

    Denying in Part Defendant’s Motion to Dismiss (Dkt. 41), Krystal Henry-

    McArthur’s claims were dismissed. No response from Guthy-Renker is necessary.

    38.  Pursuant to the Court’s February 27, 2015 Order Granting in Part and

    Denying in Part Defendant’s Motion to Dismiss (Dkt. 41), Krystal Henry-

    McArthur’s claims were dismissed. No response from Guthy-Renker is necessary.

    ADDITIONAL COMMON FACTS 

    39.  To the extent Plaintiffs’ allegations in Paragraph 39 of the First

    Amended Complaint reference unverifiable and purported internet statements by

    alleged consumers, Guthy-Renker objects to those allegations as being irrelevant

    and containing inadmissible hearsay statements. Guthy-Renker denies that the

     product is dangerous or causes hair loss. Guthy-Renker lacks knowledge or

    information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of all remaining allegations

    contained in Paragraph 39 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint and therefore

    must deny them.

    40.  Guthy-Renker lacks knowledge or information sufficient to form a

     belief as to the truth of the allegations regarding blog complaints and YouTube

    videos. Guthy-Renker denies that the product is dangerous or causes hair loss.

    Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 40 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    CLASS ALLEGATIONS 

    41.  Guthy-Renker repeats and incorporates its responses to Paragraphs 1-

    40 above as if set forth fully herein.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 8 of 29 Page ID #:332

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    42.  Guthy-Renker admits that Plaintiffs purport to bring this action on

     behalf of a class, but denies that this case is appropriate for class action treatment.

    43.  Guthy-Renker admits that Guthy-Renker, its affiliates, employees

    officers and directors, persons or entities that purchased WEN® Cleansing

    Conditioner for purposes of resale, and the Judge(s) assigned to this case would be

    excluded from any definition of a class. Guthy-Renker denies that this case is

    appropriate for class action treatment.

    44.  Although Guthy-Renker admits that Plaintiffs have purportedly

    reserved the right to amend or modify their proposed class definitions, Guthy-

    Renker denies that this case is appropriate for class action treatment.

    45. 

    Guthy-Renker denies that this case is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    45 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    46.  Guthy-Renker denies that this case is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    46 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    47. 

    Pursuant to the Court’s February 27, 2015 Order Granting in Part and

    Denying in Part Defendant’s Motion to Dismiss (Dkt. 41), Plaintiffs’ alleged claims

    in assumpsit were dismissed. Guthy-Renker denies that this case is appropriate for

    class action treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in

    Paragraph 47 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    48.  Guthy-Renker denies that this case is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    48 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    49.  Guthy-Renker denies that this case is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    49 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 9 of 29 Page ID #:333

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    50.  Guthy-Renker denies that this case is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    50 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    51.  Guthy-Renker denies that this case is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    51 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    VIOLATIONS ALLEGED 

    COUNT I

    BREACH OF WARRANTY 

    52.  Guthy-Renker repeats and incorporates its responses to Paragraphs 1-

    51 above as if set forth fully herein.

    53.  Guthy-Renker admits that it sold WEN® Cleansing Conditioner in its

    regular course of business, and that it sold at least one of several formulations of the

     product to the named Plaintiffs. Guthy-Renker denies that this case is appropriate

    for class action treatment. Guthy-Renker lacks knowledge or information sufficient

    to form a belief as to the truth of all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    53 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint and therefore must deny them.

    54.  Guthy-Renker admits that WEN® Cleansing Conditioner costs more

    than five dollars. All remaining allegations of Paragraph 54 are legal conclusions

    to which no response is required.

    55.  The allegations of Paragraph 55 are legal conclusions to which no

    response is required.

    56.  As to the named Plaintiffs, Guthy-Renker admits that is was the

    manufacturer and seller of the product at issue. However, Guthy-Renker denies

    offering any warranties. All remaining allegations of Paragraph 56 are legal

    conclusions to which no response is required.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 10 of 29 Page ID #:334

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    57.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    57 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    58.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 58 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    59.  Guthy-Renker admits that the WEN® Cleansing Conditioner it sold to

    the named Plaintiffs was merchantable, free from material defects, and fit for its

    intended use. Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    59 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    60. 

    Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 60 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    61.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    61 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    62.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    62 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    63.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies that the product is dangerous or causes hair loss or

    other problems. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in

    Paragraph 63 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    64.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 64 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    65.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    65 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 11 of 29 Page ID #:335

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    66.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    66 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    COUNT II 

    VIOLATION OF THE CALIFORNIA UNFAIR COMPETITION LAW, 

    BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE § 17200, et seq. 

    67.  Guthy-Renker repeats and incorporates its responses to Paragraphs 1-

    66 above as if set forth fully herein.

    68.  Guthy-Renker states that the California Business & Professions Code

    cited by Plaintiffs in Paragraph 68 speaks for itself as codified in § 17200, et seq.

    To the extent any of the allegations contained in Paragraph 68 are directed at

    Guthy-Renker, Guthy-Renker denies such allegations in their entirety.

    69.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies that the product is dangerous or causes hair loss

    Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 69 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    70. 

    Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 70 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    71.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies that the product is dangerous or causes hair loss

    Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 71 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    72.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    72 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 12 of 29 Page ID #:336

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    73.  Guthy-Renker denies that it has engaged in any unlawful, unfair, or

    fraudulent practices, and Guthy-Renker denies that Plaintiffs are entitled to any

    relief.

    COUNT III 

    VIOLATION OF THE CALIFORNIA FALSE ADVERTISING LAW, 

    BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE § 17500, et seq. 

    74.  Guthy-Renker repeats and incorporates its responses to Paragraphs 1-

    73 above as if set forth fully herein.

    75.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 75 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    76. 

    Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 76 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    77.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 77 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    78.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 78 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    79. 

    Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies that it has made any false or misleading

    statements, and Guthy-Renker denies that Plaintiffs are entitled to any relief.

    Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 79 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    80. Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies that it has engaged in false advertising, and Guthy-

    Renker denies that Plaintiffs are entitled to any relief. Guthy-Renker denies all

    remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 80 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended

    Complaint.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 13 of 29 Page ID #:337

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    COUNT IV

    COMMON COUNTS/ASSUMPSIT

    81. Pursuant to the Court’s February 27, 2015 Order Granting in Part and

    Denying in Part Defendant’s Motion to Dismiss (Dkt. 41), Plaintiffs’ alleged claims

    in assumpsit were dismissed. No response from Guthy-Renker is necessary.

    82. Pursuant to the Court’s February 27, 2015 Order Granting in Part and

    Denying in Part Defendant’s Motion to Dismiss (Dkt. 41), Plaintiffs’ alleged claims

    in assumpsit were dismissed. No response from Guthy-Renker is necessary.

    83. Pursuant to the Court’s February 27, 2015 Order Granting in Part and

    Denying in Part Defendant’s Motion to Dismiss (Dkt. 41), Plaintiffs’ alleged claims

    in assumpsit were dismissed. No response from Guthy-Renker is necessary.

    84. Pursuant to the Court’s February 27, 2015 Order Granting in Part and

    Denying in Part Defendant’s Motion to Dismiss (Dkt. 41), Plaintiffs’ alleged claims

    in assumpsit were dismissed. No response from Guthy-Renker is necessary.

    85. Pursuant to the Court’s February 27, 2015 Order Granting in Part and

    Denying in Part Defendant’s Motion to Dismiss (Dkt. 41), Plaintiffs’ alleged claims

    in assumpsit were dismissed. No response from Guthy-Renker is necessary.

    86. Pursuant to the Court’s February 27, 2015 Order Granting in Part and

    Denying in Part Defendant’s Motion to Dismiss (Dkt. 41), Plaintiffs’ alleged claims

    in assumpsit were dismissed. No response from Guthy-Renker is necessary.

    COUNT V

    NEGLIGENCE - FAILURE TO WARN 

    87.  Guthy-Renker repeats and incorporates its responses to Paragraphs 1-

    86 above as if set forth fully herein.

    88.  Guthy-Renker denies that this case is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker admits that it was responsible for testing, manufacturing

    inspecting, distributing, marketing, supplying, and selling the product at issue to the

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 14 of 29 Page ID #:338

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    named Plaintiffs. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in

    Paragraph 88 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    89.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 89 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    90.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 90 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    91.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies that the product is dangerous or causes hair loss

    Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 91 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    92. 

    Guthy-Renker denies that the product is dangerous or causes hair loss.

    Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 92 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    93.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies that the product is dangerous or causes hair loss

    Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 93 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    94.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies that the product is dangerous or causes hair loss or

    that Plaintiffs suffered damages. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations

    contained in Paragraph 94 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    COUNT VI

    NEGLIGENCE - FAILURE TO TEST 

    95.  Guthy-Renker repeats and incorporates its responses to Paragraphs 1-

    94 above as if set forth fully herein.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 15 of 29 Page ID #:339

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    96.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    96 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    97.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 97 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    98.  Guthy-Renker admits that it has a duty of reasonable care to its

    customers as defined by the applicable law. All remaining allegations of Paragraph

    98 are legal conclusions to which no response is required.

    99.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 99 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    100. 

    Guthy-Renker denies that this case is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies that the product is dangerous or causes hair loss

    Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph 100 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    101.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    101 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    102.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations contained in Paragraph

    102 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    COUNT VII

    STRICT PRODUCTS LIABILITY 

    103.  Guthy-Renker repeats and incorporates its responses to Paragraphs 1-

    102 above as if set forth fully herein.

    104.  Guthy-Renker admits that, with respect to the named Plaintiffs, it was

    the manufacturer and supplier of the product at issue. Guthy-Renker lacks

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 16 of 29 Page ID #:340

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    knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the

    allegations contained in Paragraph 104 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    105.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 105 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    106.  Guthy-Renker denies the allegations contained in Paragraph 106 of

    Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    107.  Guthy-Renker denies that this matter is appropriate for class action

    treatment. Guthy-Renker denies that the product causes hair loss or that customers

    have otherwise been damaged. Guthy-Renker denies all remaining allegations

    contained in Paragraph 107 of Plaintiffs’ First Amended Complaint.

    108. 

    Guthy-Renker lacks knowledge or information sufficient to form a

     belief as to the truth of the allegations contained in Paragraph 108 of Plaintiffs

    First Amended Complaint.

    SEPARATE AND ADDITIONAL DEFENSES

    In addition to the foregoing denials, Guthy-Renker reserves the right to rely

    upon any of the following or any additional defenses to each claim asserted by

    Plaintiffs to the extent that such defenses are supported by information developed

    through discovery or by evidence at trial. Guthy-Renker further denies tha

    Plaintiffs’ alleged injuries resulted from or were in any way connected with any act

    omission, fault, conduct, or liability on the part of Guthy-Renker whether negligent

    careless, unlawful, or of any nature alleged or otherwise, and denies that Guthy-

    Renker was in any way negligent, careless, reckless, wanton, or unlawful.

    By pleading these defenses, Guthy-Renker does not assume the burden of

     proving any fact, issue, or element of a cause of action where such burden properly

     belongs to Plaintiffs. Moreover, nothing stated herein is intended or shall be

    construed as a concession that any particular issue or subject matter is relevant to

    Plaintiffs’ allegations.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 17 of 29 Page ID #:341

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    FIRST AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(failure to state a claim)

    1.  Plaintiffs’ claims are barred, in whole or in part, because the

    Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be granted.

    SECOND AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(other defenses/presumptions)

    2.  Guthy-Renker is entitled to, and claims the benefit of, all defense and

     presumptions set forth in or arising from any rule of law or statute in California

    and/or any other law or statute that may be applicable.

    THIRD AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE

    (lack of standing)

    3.  Plaintiffs have no standing to assert any of the claims set forth in the

    Complaint or to seek restitution, either on their own behalf or as representatives of

    any purported class, by reason of California’s Proposition 64, Article III of the

    United States Constitution, and other applicable law.

    FOURTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(legal compliance)

    4.  Plaintiffs’ claims are barred, in whole or in part, because Guthy-

    Renker has been in compliance with all statutes, regulations, and other laws in

    effect at the time of the conduct allegedly giving rise to Plaintiffs’ claims.

    FIFTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(adequate remedies at law)

    5.  Plaintiffs and the classes they purport to represent are not entitled to

    equitable relief because they have adequate remedies at law, and no threat of harm

    exists to support a grant of a temporary restraining order or injunctive relief.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 18 of 29 Page ID #:342

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    SIXTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(estoppel)

    6.  Plaintiffs’ claims are barred, in whole or in part, by the doctrine of

    estoppel.

    SEVENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(waiver)

    7.  Plaintiffs’ claims are barred, in whole in part, by the doctrine of

    waiver.

    EIGHTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(laches)

    8. 

    Plaintiffs’ claims are barred, in whole or in part, by the doctrine of

    laches.

    NINTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(plaintiffs’ negligence and failure to mitigate)

    9.  Plaintiffs’ alleged loss, damage, injury, harm, or deprivation alleged, if

    any, was caused in whole or in part by Plaintiffs’ failure to exercise reasonable care

    and diligence to mitigate these alleged damages.

    TENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(comparative fault and lack of causation)

    10.  Guthy-Renker avers that any award of damages in favor of Plaintiffs

    must be decreased by the extent to which Plaintiffs’ own acts or omissions and by

    the acts and omissions of their own principals and/or agents, or the subsequent,

    superseding, or intervening acts or omissions of third parties, were a cause of said

    damages. To the extent the foregoing is true, the damage alleged, if any, must be

    diminished in whole or in part according to proof thereof at the time of trial.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 19 of 29 Page ID #:343

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    ELEVENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(state of the art)

    11.  Plaintiffs’ claims are barred in that WEN® products were designed,

    manufactured and labeled in a manner consistent with the state of the art at the

     pertinent time.

    TWELFTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(Guthy-Renker’s good faith)

    12.  Each cause of action is barred, in whole or in part, because Guthy-

    Renker’s alleged actions, if any, respecting the matters alleged in the First

    Amended Complaint, were at all times undertaken in good faith and in the absence

    of malicious intent to injure Plaintiffs. Guthy-Renker’s alleged actions, if any, were

    completed with legitimate business justification, provided adequate warnings of all

    known or reasonably known risk associated with the use of its products, and

    constituted a lawful, proper, and justified means of furthering the business of

    Guthy-Renker. Accordingly, Plaintiffs are barred from relief under any allegations

    contained in the First Amended Complaint.

    THIRTEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(lack of notice, reliance, satisfaction of conditions)

    13.  Plaintiffs failed to give timely or any other proper notice of any

    alleged breach of warranty to Guthy-Renker; Plaintiffs did not reasonably rely upon

    any alleged warranty; Plaintiffs failed to satisfy all conditions precedent or

    subsequent to the enforcement of such alleged warranty; and the alleged warranty

    was appropriately disclaimed, excluded, fulfilled, or modified.

    FOURTEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(claims unconstitutional)

    14.  Plaintiffs’ claims are barred in whole or in part by the applicable

     provisions of the United States Constitution, the California Constitution, should it

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 20 of 29 Page ID #:344

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    apply, and/or applicable Constitution of any other State or Commonwealth of the

    United States whose laws might be deemed controlling in this case. These

     provisions include, but are not limited to, the First Amendment to United States

    Constitution, Article I, the Due Process Clause of the United States Constitution,

    the Excessive Fines Clause of the United States Constitution, the Commerce Clause

    of the United States Constitution, and Section 2 of the Constitution of the State of

    California because Guthy-Renker’s commercial speech regarding WEN was neither

    false nor misleading.

    FIFTEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(other causes)

    15. 

    Any verdict or judgment rendered against Guthy-Renker must be

    reduced by those amounts that have been, or will, with reasonable certainty, replace

    or indemnify Plaintiffs, in whole or in part, for any past or future claimed economic

    loss, from any collateral source such as insurance, social security, worker's

    compensation, or employee benefit programs.

    SIXTEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(idiosyncratic reaction)

    16.  If Plaintiffs sustained injuries or losses as alleged in the First Amended

    Complaint, such injuries or losses may have been caused by an individual,

    idiosyncratic reaction.

    SEVENTEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(settlement credits)

    17.  In the unlikely event that Guthy-Renker is found liable to Plaintiffs

    Guthy-Renker is entitled to a credit or offset for any and all sums that Plaintiffs

    have received or may hereafter receive by way of any and all settlements arising

    from Plaintiffs' claims and causes of action. Guthy-Renker alternatively asserts its

    right to a proportionate reduction of any damages based on comparative fault or the

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 21 of 29 Page ID #:345

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     percentage of negligence attributable to Plaintiffs or to any settling tortfeasor under

    California law and/or the laws of any other State or Commonwealth of the United

    States whose laws might be deemed controlling in this case.

    EIGHTEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(pre-existing and unrelated conditions)

    18.  If Plaintiffs sustained injuries or losses as alleged in the First Amended

    Complaint, such injuries or losses resulted from Plaintiffs’ pre-existing and/or

    unrelated medical, genetic, and/or environmental conditions, diseases, or illnesses,

    subsequent medical conditions or natural courses of conditions for which Guthy-

    Renker is not responsible.

    NINETEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(lack of causation)

    19.  Any conduct on the part of Guthy-Renker allegedly causing Plaintiffs

    alleged injuries was not a substantial cause or factor of actual injury or damage, if

    any.

    TWENTIETH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(no breach of warranty)

    20.  Guthy-Renker did not breach any implied warranties or any warranties

    created by law.

    TWENTY-FIRST AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(no damages)

    21.  To the extent that Plaintiffs purport to seek relief on behalf of any

     person who has not suffered any damages, the Complaint violates Guthy-Renker’s

    right to due process under the United States and California Constitutions.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 22 of 29 Page ID #:346

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    TWENTY-SECOND AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(fees not recoverable)

    22.  To the extent Plaintiffs seek recovery of attorney’s fees, such fees are

    not recoverable.

    TWENTY-THIRD AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(no punitive damages)

    23.  Plaintiffs are not entitled to punitive damages because they cannot

    meet the standard required for an award of such damages.

    TWENTY-FOURTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(not appropriate for class action treatment)

    24. 

    The claims in the Complaint are barred, in whole or in part, because

    this case is not appropriate for class or representative treatment for a variety of

    reasons, including but not limited to the following: the purported class is not

    ascertainable or certifiable as such; Plaintiffs’ claims are not typical of those of the

     purported class; the named Plaintiffs are not adequate representatives of the alleged

    class that Plaintiffs seek to represent; Plaintiffs’ claims do not present common

    issues and individual issues will predominate; class treatment will not be

    manageable or superior; and the purported class has not suffered class-wide injury.

    TWENTY-FIFTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(accord, satisfaction and prior release)

    25.  Some of Plaintiffs’ claims are barred by accord and satisfaction, or

     prior release.

    TWENTY-SIXTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(no causal connection)

    26.  There is no causal connection between any conduct of Guthy-Renker

    and any alleged loss or damage which Plaintiffs contends they have sustained.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 23 of 29 Page ID #:347

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    TWENTY- SEVENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(statute of limitations or repose)

    27.  Plaintiffs’ claims are barred, in whole or in part, by the applicable

    statute of limitations and/or statutes of repose, including but not limited to

    California Code of Civil Procedure §§ 335.1, 338, and 343, California Civil Code §

    1783, and California Bus. & Prof. Code § 17208.

    TWENTY-EIGHTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(assumed risk) 

    28.  Plaintiffs have full knowledge of all the risks, dangers, and hazards, if

    any there were, and nevertheless voluntarily and with full appreciation of the

    amount of danger involved, assumed the risk of loss to themselves.

    TWENTY-NINTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(safe harbor)

    29.  The cause of action for violation of California Business and

    Professions Code Section 17200 et seq. is barred by the safe harbor provided by

    Guthy-Renker’s compliance with federal and/or state laws and regulations. See

    Cel-Tech Comm., Inc. v. Los Angeles Cellular Tel. Co., 20 Cal. 4th 163, 182

    (1999).

    THIRTIETH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(nonjoinder of indispensable parties)

    30.  The First Amended Complaint should be dismissed for nonjoinder of

    indispensable parties.

    THIRTY-FIRST AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(other causes)

    31.  If Plaintiffs suffered or sustained any loss, injury or damage, that loss,

    injury or damage was proximately caused and contributed to by persons and entities

    other than Guthy-Renker over whom Guthy-Renker exercised no control and had

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 24 of 29 Page ID #:348

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    no opportunity to anticipate or right to control, and with whom Guthy-Renker had

    no legal relationship by which liability could be attributed to it, including Plaintiffs

    themselves. Therefore the liability of all responsible parties, named or unnamed

    should be apportioned according to their proportionate degree of responsibility,

    then the liability of Guthy-Renker, if any, should be reduced accordingly.

    THIRTY-SECOND AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(normal course of business)

    32.  Guthy-Renker is not liable for the acts alleged in the First Amended

    Complaint as their actions were carried out in the normal course of marketing and

    manufacturing consumer products, and were necessarily incident to the rendition of

    goods and services.

    THIRTY-THIRD AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(no damages)

    33.  Guthy-Renker asserts that Plaintiffs have not been damaged in any

    amount by the conduct, acts or omissions of Guthy-Renker. Furthermore, there are

    no amounts to be restored to Plaintiffs in that Guthy-Renker has not taken or

    retained any property or monies that they were not entitled to, nor have Plaintiffs

    given up any property or monies to Guthy-Renker that they were entitled to keep.

    THIRTY-FOURTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(unjust enrichment)

    34.  Guthy-Renker asserts that Plaintiff would be unjustly enriched if

    allowed to recover any sums claimed to be due under the First Amended

    Complaint.

    THIRTY-FIFTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(punitive damages barred)

    35.  Any punitive damages claimed by Plaintiffs are in violation of and are

     barred by the Constitution of the United States, including, but not limited to, the

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 25 of 29 Page ID #:349

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    Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses contained in the Fifth and Fourteenth

    Amendments to the United States Constitution; the Excessive Fines Clause of the

    Eighth Amendment to the United States; the Double Jeopardy Clause in the Fifth

    Amendment to the United States Constitution; the Tenth Amendment to the United

    States Constitution; and common law, public policy, and applicable statutes and

    court rules.

    THIRTY-SIXTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(no oppressive, fraudulent or malicious acts)

    36.  To the extent California law is held to apply, Guthy-Renker alleges

    that to the extent that Plaintiffs seek punitive or exemplary damages for an alleged

    act or omission of Guthy-Renker, no act or omission was oppressive, fraudulent, or

    malicious, under California Civil Code § 3294. Therefore, any award of punitive or

    exemplary damages is barred. Any claim for punitive or exemplary damages is also

     barred under California Civil Code § 3294(b).

    THIRTY-SEVENTHN AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(speculative damages)

    37. 

    The First Amended Complaint, and each purported claim contained

    therein, is barred, in whole or in part, because the alleged sums to be restored to

    allegedly injured parties, if any, are speculative, uncertain, and incapable of

    calculation; thus, it is impossible to ascertain and allocate such alleged sums. 

    THIRTY-EIGHTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(election of remedies)

    38.  The doctrine of election of remedies bars Plaintiffs’ ability to recover

    under all the causes of action alleged in the First Amended Complaint.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 26 of 29 Page ID #:350

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    THIRTY-NINTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(mootness)

    39.  The claims of the First Amended Complaint are barred to the extent

    they have become moot.

    FORTIETH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(failure to plead fraud with particularity)

    40.  Plaintiffs have failed to plead their fraud claim with the particularity

    required by Fed. R. Civ. P. 9(b).

    FORTY-FIRST AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(modification or alteration of product)

    41. 

    The proximate cause of Plaintiffs’ alleged injuries was a modification

    or alteration of the products at issue, which was not reasonably expected by Guthy-

    Renker. Any injuries or expenses incurred by Plaintiffs were not caused by Guthy-

    Renker, but may have been proximately caused, in whole or part, by the unforeseen

    alteration, unintended use, misuse, or abuse of the products referenced in Plaintiffs

    First Amended Complaint.

    FORTY-SECOND AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(improper joinder)

    42.  The Complaint improperly joins Plaintiffs in the causes of action

    asserted against Guthy-Renker because Plaintiffs’ right to relief, if any, does not

    arise out of the same transaction, occurrence, or series of transactions or

    occurrences, and Plaintiffs’ do not involve common questions of fact or law.

    FORTY-THIRD AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(not misleading)

    43.  The business practices and or marketing statements of which Plaintiffs

    complain through their California Business & Professions Code §§ 17200 and

    17500 claims in the First Amended Complaint are not likely to mislead anyone.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 27 of 29 Page ID #:351

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    FORTY-FORTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE(other affirmative defenses)

    44.  Guthy-Renker presently has sufficient knowledge or information upon

    which to form a belief as to whether Guthy-Renker may have other, as yet unstated

    affirmative defenses available. Therefore, Guthy-Renker reserves the right to assert

    additional affirmative defenses in the event that discovery or any other investigation

    indicates they would be appropriate.

    PRAYER FOR RELIEF

    Guthy-Renker denies that Plaintiffs or others are entitled to the relief sought

    in the Prayer for Relief, or to any relief at all. Guthy-Renker further denies that this

    case is appropriate for certification as a class action.

    WHEREFORE, Guthy-Renker prays for judgment as follows:

    1.  That Plaintiffs take nothing by the First Amended Complaint;

    2.  That the Court enter judgment dismissing the First Amended

    Complaint against Guthy-Renker, with prejudice;

    3.  That the Court award Guthy-Renker its reasonable expenses and costs

    incurred in the defense of the First Amended Complaint; and

    4.  That the Court grant Guthy-Renker such relief as the Court may deem

     proper.

    //

    //

    //

    //

    //

    //

    //

    //

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 28 of 29 Page ID #:352

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    JURY DEMAND

    Pursuant to Rule 38 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and Rule 38-1 of

    the Local Rules for the Central District of California, Guthy-Renker hereby

    demands a trial by jury.DATED: March 27, 2015 Respectfully submitted,

    By: /s/ Jonathan M. Jackson

    LEWIS WAGNER, LLPDina M. Cox

    LATHAM & WATKINS LLPDavid J. SchindlerJonathan M. Jackson

    Attorneys for Defendant Guthy-Renker LLC

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 49 Filed 03/27/15 Page 29 of 29 Page ID #:353

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    NATURE OF THE ACTION

    Plaintiffs Amy Friedman, Judi Miller, and Krystal Henry-McArthur

    (collectively “Plaintiffs”), on behalf of themselves and all others similarly situated

     by their undersigned attorneys, allege as follows:

    1.  This is a class action brought by Plaintiffs, on behalf of themselves

    and other similarly situated persons, against Guthy-Renker LLC (“Guthy-Renker ”

    or “Defendant”). Plaintiffs seek damages and equitable remedies for themselves

    and the Class (defined in ¶ 41, below), which includes consumers who have

     purchased WEN Cleansing Conditioner haircare products, in the following

    variations: Sweet Almond Mint, Lavender, Pomegranate and Summer HoneyPeach (“WEN Cleansing Conditioner” or the “Products”).

    2.  As described below, an inherent design and/or manufacturing defect

    in Defendant’s  WEN Cleansing Conditioner causes significant hair loss

    Defendant provides no warning about this consequence and, in fact, makes

    numerous assertions about the gentle nature of the product. For example, on its

    website, Defendant makes statements such as, “WEN® is gentle enough to use

    every day” and “WEN® isn't like an ordinary shampoo so you want to use more of

    it, not less. You can never use too much! The more you use, the better the results. ”

    These statements and others, which related uniformly to all the Products, were and

    are false and have harmed Plaintiffs and the Class. In fact, WEN products use

    numerous harsh chemicals and known human allergens, such as

    Hydroxycitronellal. As a result of the defective nature of the Products, they were

    and are unfit for their intended use and purpose.

    3.  Once the hair loss caused by WEN Cleansing Conditioner begins, it

    can often continue for weeks before abating, even if the consumer immediately

    discontinues use of the product. The hair loss is not de minimus — consumers who

    suffer hair loss often lose one quarter to one third of their hair, or more.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 34 Filed 11/03/14 Page 2 of 32 Page ID #:154

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    Plaintiffs have suffered injury in fact and loss of money or property as the result of

    their use of WEN Cleansing Conditioner.

    4.  This action arises from Defendant’s failure, despite its longstanding

    knowledge of a material design defect, to disclose and/or warn Plaintiffs and other

    consumers that WEN Cleansing Conditioner can and does cause substantial hair

    loss. Indeed, not only did Defendant fail to warn consumers, it actively concealed

    customers’ comments concerning hair loss, by blocking and/or erasing such

    comments from the WEN Facebook page.

    5.  Further, based on inherent defects in the formula and/or manufacture

    of the WEN Cleansing Conditioner, Defendant knew or should have known that itswarranties were being breached by the hair loss caused by the Products. Defendant

    knew or should have known that Plaintiffs and Class members would suffer

    damages as the result of the hair loss caused by WEN Cleansing Conditioner

    Defendant concealed these facts from Class members, including Plaintiffs

    Defendant’s  failure to disclose this defect about which it knew or should have

    known constitutes both an actionable misrepresentation and an unfair, unlawful

    fraudulent, and deceptive business practice.

    6.  Plaintiffs and other Class members have been damaged by

    Defendant’s  concealment and non-disclosure of the defective nature of the

    Products, because they were misled into purchasing WEN Cleansing Conditioner

    of a quality and value different than they were promised. Guthy-Renker has

    known about this issue for at least four years as the result of public complaints.

    Guthy-Renker also knew or should have known about the hair loss issues caused

     by WEN Cleansing Conditioner as the result of pre-release formulation and testing

     Notwithstanding these complaints, Defendant has failed and/or refused to provide

    an adequate remedy.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 34 Filed 11/03/14 Page 3 of 32 Page ID #:155

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    7.  Perhaps most striking about this situation is Defendant’s  clear and

    unambiguous knowledge of the hair loss caused by WEN Cleansing Conditioner.

    For example, after complaining about hair loss caused by WEN Cleansing

    Conditioner to the United States Food and Drug Administration, Plaintiff Friedman

    received electronic communications from Defendant’s consumer affairs

    department. One of these emails included more than two-dozen comprehensive

    questions concerning Plaintiff Friedman’s use of WEN Cleansing Conditioner

    Discovery in this litigation will undoubtedly demonstrate that Defendant

    formulated these questions long ago and has repeatedly used them with

    complaining consumers. Plaintiff Friedman subsequently receivedcommunications from Defendant’s apparent insurer, Chubb. Rather than address

    this systemic problem, Defendant is apparently attempting to payoff consumers on

    the cheap, sweep this problem under the rug and continue its lucrative business

    selling its defective WEN Cleansing Conditioner.

    8.  Despite notice and knowledge of the problems caused by WEN

    Cleansing Conditioner from the numerous consumer complaints it has received

    information from third parties (including the United States Food and Drug

    Administration), Guthy-Renker has not recalled the WEN Cleansing Conditioner,

    or offered its customers proper compensation for their damages.

    9.  Had Plaintiffs and other Class members known about the problems

    caused by WEN Cleansing Conditioner at the time of purchase, they would not

    have purchased the product.

    10. 

    As a result of Defendant’s  practices, Plaintiffs and the other Class

    members have suffered injury in fact, including economic damages.

    11.  Plaintiffs therefore bring this action on behalf of themselves and a

     proposed Class of similarly situated purchasers of Guthy-Renker ’s WEN Cleansing

    Conditioner.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 34 Filed 11/03/14 Page 4 of 32 Page ID #:156

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    JURISDICTION AND VENUE

    12.  This Court has subject matter jurisdiction of this action pursuant to 28

    U.S.C. §1332 of the Class Action Fairness Act of 2005 because: (i) there are 100

    or more class members, (ii) there is an aggregate amount in controversy exceeding

    $5,000,000, exclusive of interest and costs, and (iii) there is minimal diversity

     because at least one plaintiff and defendant are citizens of different states. This

    Court has supplemental jurisdiction over any state law claims pursuant to 28U.S.C. § 1367.

    13.  Venue is proper in this District pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §1391 inasmuch

    as the unlawful practices are alleged to have been directed from this District.

    Specifically, Defendant Guthy-Renker has its principal place of business in this

    District, and Defendant regularly conducts and directs its business in and from this

    District.

    14.  According to Defendant Guthy-Renker, the laws of the state of

    California are to govern all purchases of the products at issue.

    PARTIES 

    15.  During all times relevant to this suit, Plaintiff, Amy Friedman

    (“Friedman” or “Plaintiff  Friedman”), has been a resident of the State of Florida,

    and currently resides in St. Petersburg, Florida.

    16. 

    During all times relevant to this suit, Plaintiff, Judi Miller (“Miller” or

    “Plaintiff Miller”), has been a resident of the State of Maryland, and currently

    resides in Glenwood, Maryland.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 34 Filed 11/03/14 Page 5 of 32 Page ID #:157

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    17.  During all times relevant to this suit, Plaintiff, Krystal Henry-

    McArthur (“Henry-McArthur” or “Plaintiff Henry-McArthur”), has been a resident

    of the State of Florida, and currently resides in Tampa, Florida.

    18. 

    Defendant Guthy-Renker is an American corporation whose principal

     place of business is located at 3340 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica, California

    At all times relevant to this complaint Defendant has transacted business in this

     judicial district and has directed its international operations from this district

    throughout the United States and the world.

    19.  According to Defendant Guthy-Renker, any and all claims regarding

    its WEN Cleansing Conditioner are governed by the laws of the state of California.COMMON FACTS

    20.  At all relevant times herein, Defendant has developed, manufactured

    marketed, sold and distributed WEN Cleansing Conditioner throughout the United

    States.

    21.  On its website (www.guthy-renker.com)  Defendant bills itself as

    “direct marketing pioneers” and “one of the largest and most respected direct

    marketing companies in the world, with distribution in 68 countries.” Defendant’s

    website also indicates it has been in operation since 1988. Defendant sells its

     products predominantly through celebrity-driven infomercials. The strong

    majority of Defendant’s sales occur by phone. Guthy-Renker is best known for its

     promotion and sale of Proactive Solution, but it sells six other beauty-related

     products — including WEN haircare products.

    22. 

    In its marketing materials and on the website for WEN haircare

     products (www.wen.com), Defendant makes a variety of false and/or misleading

    statements about WEN Cleansing Conditioner, including, but not limited to, the

    following:

    It seems like I'm using a lot of product. Can I use too much?

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 34 Filed 11/03/14 Page 6 of 32 Page ID #:158

    http://www.guthy-renker.com/http://www.guthy-renker.com/http://www.guthy-renker.com/http://www.wen.com/http://www.wen.com/http://www.wen.com/http://www.wen.com/http://www.guthy-renker.com/

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    WEN® isn't like an ordinary shampoo so you want to use more of it, notless. You can never use too much! The more you use, the better theresults.

    (emphasis added).

    Should I use the Cleansing Conditioner every day?That's up to you. Some people like to wash their hair daily. Others will go aday or two between washings. Although WEN® is gentle enough to useevery day, if you don't, you can combine 4-6 pumps of CleansingConditioner with a quarter-size amount of Styling Creme in a spray bottlewith water. Shake vigorously to mix completely. Spritz it on 12-18 inchesabove hair to provide a light mist. Shake out and restyle or fluff up yourhair!

    (emphasis added).

    Rinse hair thoroughly. Apply WEN® into your palms and rub together. Use10-16 pumps for short hair, 16-24 for medium length hair and 24-32 pumps

    for long hair. If your hair is longer/thicker you may need to increase theamount of pumps.

    (emphasis added).

    Apply to scalp and hair, adding a splash of water to evenly distribute.WEN® has no harsh detergents or sodium lauryl sulfate, so it won't lather.Massage thoroughly into hair and leave on for the remainder of yourshower.

    (emphasis added).

    “WEN®   Cleansing Conditioner  is a revolutionary new concept in haircare. A 5-in-1 formula, this one product takes the place of your shampoo,conditioner, deep conditioner, detangler and leave-in conditioner. It cleanseshair thoroughly without lathering or harsh ingredients. It's designed notto strip your hair and scalp of natural oils, leaving your hair with morestrength, moisture, manageability and better color retention.

    (emphasis added).

    23.  The instructions for using WEN Cleansing Conditioner does not vary between scents, and states:

    CLEANSING YOUR HAIR IN 3 EASY STEPS:Step 1:Rinse hair thoroughly. Apply WEN® into your palms and rub together.Use 10-16 pumps for short hair, 16-24 for medium length hair and 24-32

     pumps for long hair. If your hair is longer/thicker you may need toincrease the amount of pumps.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 34 Filed 11/03/14 Page 7 of 32 Page ID #:159

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    Step 2:Apply to scalp and hair, adding a splash of water to evenly distribute.WEN® has no harsh detergents or sodium lauryl sulfate, so it won'tlather. Massage thoroughly into hair and leave on for the remainder ofyour shower.

    Step 3:Rinse thoroughly and completely, massaging scalp and running fingersthrough to the ends.

    ADDITIONAL USAGE TIPS:Apply 1/2 to 1 pump depending on hair length and texture as a leave-inconditioner to soaking wet hair. For best results, we highly suggest youcleanse, rinse and repeat, using half the recommended pumps for the first

    cleanse, and the remaining half for the second cleanse. Unlike manyordinary shampoos, you may find you don't need to cleanse as often.

    24.  The emphasized statements are false and/or misleading, and through

    the instructions on the product, Defendant expressly instructs consumers to use

    tremendous amounts of the product, reinforcing these statements with assertions

    that the product is gentle and you cannot possibly use too much. Defendant

    encourages consumers to leave the product in their hair for long periods, but failsto provide direct instructions concerning the duration of application. Indeed

    Defendant also encourages consumers to leave small amounts of the product in

    their hair as a “leave-in conditioner ” and not wash it out at all. In reality, use of

    Defendant’s product can and does cause  significant hair loss when used in

    accordance with Defendant’s limited instructions.

    25.  Due to Defendant’s false and misleading statements, Class members

     purchased WEN Cleansing Conditioner with no reason to suspect or know the

    dangers occasioned by use of the Products, and used tremendous amounts of the

     product on their hair as instructed. Not until hair loss began could a Class member

    have any reason to suspect that WEN Cleansing Conditioner is defective, and even

    then might not immediately make the connection.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 34 Filed 11/03/14 Page 8 of 32 Page ID #:160

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    26.  Rather than acknowledging the dangers of using WEN Cleansing

    Conditioner, Defendant further reinforces its false statements with summary of a

     patently misleading “study”. Defendant’s “Features” study states:

    In a 3-week study of users of WEN® Cleansing Conditioner, up to:

    100% said hair was more moisturized!

    97% noticed that WEN® added more shine!

    95% reported that hair became more manageable

    However, Defendant goes on to state (in much smaller print) that these results are

    “not typical.”  If the results are not typical, what purpose does this information

    serve, other than to mislead potential consumers into purchasing Defendant’sdefective product?

    26. Defendant sells its WEN Cleansing Conditioner in four different

    scents: Sweet Almond Mint, Pomegranate, Lavender and Summer Honey Peach

    The “study” quoted above applies to all four scents. In addition, the “Key

    Ingredients" listed for all four scents does not differ:

    KEY INGREDIENTS

    Glycerin: A humectant that provides moisturizing benefits to the hair.

    Chamomile Extract: Used for its soothing and calming properties.

    Wild Cherry Bark: Formulated to help condition the hair.

    Rosemary Extract: Designed to soothe hair.

    Panthenol: Designed to help strengthen hair and restore resilience.

    As a result, there is no discernable difference between the four scents other than

    the smell.

    27.  As the direct and proximate result of Defendant’s false and misleading

    statements, Plaintiffs and Class members have suffered injury in fact and a loss of

    money or property through the out-of-pocket costs expended to purchase the WEN

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 34 Filed 11/03/14 Page 9 of 32 Page ID #:161

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    Cleansing Conditioner, as well as the costs of mitigating the hair loss occasioned

     by Defendant’s products. 

    28.  By marketing, selling and distributing WEN Cleansing Conditioner

    from California to purchasers throughout the United States, Defendant made

    actionable statements that WEN Cleansing Conditioner was free of defects in

    design and/or manufacture, and that it was safe and fit for its ordinary intended use

    and purpose.

    29.  By marketing, advertising, selling and distributing WEN Cleansing

    Conditioner from California to purchasers throughout the United States, Defendant

    made actionable statements that the ordinary use of the WEN CleansingConditioner would not involve undisclosed safety risks. Further, Defendant

    concealed what it knew or should have known about the safety risks resulting from

    the material defects in design and/or manufacture.

    30.  Defendant engaged in the above-described actionable statements,

    omissions and concealments with knowledge that the representations were false

    and/or misleading, and with the intent that consumers rely upon such concealment,

    suppression and omissions. Alternatively, Defendant was reckless in not knowing

    that these representations were false and misleading at the time they were made.

    Defendant had exclusive access to data and research conducted prior and during

    the design and manufacture phase of the development of WEN Cleansing

    Conditioner that Plaintiffs and Class members could not and did not review.

    PLAINTIFF FRIEDMAN’S EXPERIENCE 

    31. 

    After viewing advertisements for WEN Cleansing Conditioner

    espousing its safe, innovative and gentle qualities, on or about January 29, 2014,

    Plaintiff, Amy Friedman, purchased the Sweet Almond Mint basic kit directly from

    Defendant for a price of $29.95. Plaintiff Friedman had previously used organic

    shampoos and conditioners, which never caused abnormal hair loss. At no time

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 34 Filed 11/03/14 Page 10 of 32 Page ID #:162

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    did Defendant provide Plaintiff Friedman any warnings concerning the potential

    dangers of using WEN Cleansing Conditioner.

    32.  Within two weeks of beginning use of her WEN Cleansing

    Conditioner, Plaintiff Friedman began losing substantial and abnormal amounts of

    hair. Plaintiff Friedman discontinued use, but the hair loss continued for

    approximately three more weeks. Ultimately, Plaintiff Friedman lost one quarter

    to one third of the hair on her head. As a result, Plaintiff Friedman, a nurse

     practitioner by profession, was forced to expend substantial sums on vitamins and

    supplements to attempt to regrow her very long hair. Additionally, Plaintiff

    Friedman was forced to undertake expensive cosmetic solutions, such as hairextensions, to mask the hair loss.

    PLAINTIFF MILLER’S EXPERIENCE 

    33.  Plaintiff Miller first purchased WEN Cleansing Conditioners (Sweet

    Almond Mint and Pomegranate) in June 2011. She purchased the WEN Cleansing

    Conditioners by telephone after viewing Defendant’s advertisements regarding the

    safe, innovative and gentle qualities of its WEN Cleansing Conditioners. After

    initial purchases, Plaintiff Miller received automatic shipments of WEN Cleansing

    Conditioners every few months, until January 21, 2014, when she called and

    cancelled direct shipments. Plaintiff Miller used the WEN products consistent

    with the instructions, in some instances using the product as a so-called “spa

    treatment” and leaving it in her hair for extended periods of time.

    34.  Beginning in January 2013, Plaintiff Miller noticed that she was

    losing abnormal amounts of hair. Not suspecting the WEN Cleansing Conditioner

    was the culprit, Plaintiff Miller only stopped using the products in June 2014, when

    she finally realized that she was losing substantial amounts of hair only in the areas

    in which she applied WEN Cleansing Conditioner, among other places, on the

    crown of her head.

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 34 Filed 11/03/14 Page 11 of 32 Page ID #:163

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    35.  As a result of the hair loss caused by the WEN Cleansing

    Conditioners, Plaintiff Miller was forced to expend substantial sums on vitamins,

    supplements, and doctor visits to treat and attempt to regrow her hair and treat

    other serious health issues caused by use of the products. Like Plaintiff Friedman

    Plaintiff Miller also contacted the FDA concerning her negative experience with

    WEN haircare products.

    PLAINTIFF HENRY-MCARTHUR’S EXPERIENCE 

    36.  Plaintiff Henry-McArthur is in the military (active duty), and

     purchased WEN Cleansing Conditioner in June 2014 after seeing infomercials for

    the products.37.  A few weeks after she started using WEN Cleansing Conditioner

    Plaintiff Henry-McArthur began noticing substantial hair loss and ceased using the

     product immediately.

    38.  Plaintiff Henry-McArthur’s hair loss is further accentuated as a result

    of the limited hairstyles available due to her military service.

    ADDITIONAL COMMON FACTS

    39.  Plaintiffs’  experiences are by no means isolated or outlying

    occurrences. Indeed, the internet is replete with examples of blogs and other

    websites where consumers have complained of the exact same issues with WEN

    Cleansing Conditioner. A very small sample1  of the numerous online

    complaints — dating back several years — appears below:

      http://community.qvc.com/forums/wen/topic/305237/hair-loss-after-

    using-wen-products.aspxHair Loss After Using Wen Products Started 07/08/2012 at 10:26 AM in WEN | Last reply 11/15/2013 at 4:03AM byracerrn

    1 Typographical and grammatical errors in the excerpted complaints have not beencorrected and remain as originally written. 

    Case 2:14-cv-06009-ODW-AGR Document 34 Filed 11/03/14 Page 12 of 32 Page ID #:164

    http://community.qvc.com/forums/wen/topic/305237/hair-loss-after-using-wen-products.aspxhttp://community.qvc.com/forums/wen/topic/305237/hair-loss-after-using-wen-products.aspxhttp://community.qvc.com/forums/wen/index.aspxhttp://community.qvc.com/forums/wen/topic/305237/viewlast/hair-loss-after-using-wen-products.aspx#lastreplyhttp://community.qvc.com/communitymember/userid/602686/racerrn.aspxhttp://community.qvc.com/communitymember/userid/602686/racerrn.aspxhttp://community.qvc.com/forums/wen/topic/305237/viewlast/hair-loss-after-using-wen-products.aspx#lastreplyhttp://community.qvc.com/forums/wen/index.aspxhttp://community.qvc.com/forums/wen/topic/305237/hair-loss-after-using-wen-products.aspx

  • 8/9/2019 WEN lawsuit & answer 110314

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    I'm posting this note after losing massive amounts of hair in patches mostlyat the crown of my head, with smaller bald patches all over my scalp. Earlythis year (2012) I purchased the Wen i


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