e.l.f. Cosmetics Facing New Lawsuit Over Alleged Non-Functional Slack-Fill - Global Cosmetics News

Mar 20, 2025

Posted by Global Cosmetics News | Mar 18, 2025 | North America, Packaging, Regulatory |

THE WHAT? Beauty brand e.l.f. Cosmetics has been hit with a class action lawsuit claiming it packages certain products—namely its lip gloss and exfoliant formulas—in oversized containers that are up to 50% empty. The suit, filed in California federal court, alleges this non-functional slack-fill misleads consumers into believing they are getting more product than they actually are.

THE DETAILS

• The lawsuit was brought by plaintiff Geneva Gonzales, who argues that e.l.f. Cosmetics unlawfully underfills its Holy Hydration! Gentle Peeling Exfoliant and Glossy Lip Stain products, resulting in large amounts of empty space.

• Gonzales claims the company “dupes unsuspecting consumers” by failing to provide clear indications of how much product is actually included.

• The lawsuit seeks class action status, a jury trial, and demands monetary compensation and injunctive relief on behalf of all California consumers allegedly affected within the past four years.

• This isn’t the first time e.l.f. Cosmetics has come under legal fire; in 20220, the brand faced a similar suit alleging its foundation products, labeled as oil-free, actually contained oil.

THE WHY? Consumer groups have become increasingly vigilant about packaging practices that may deceive shoppers—especially in the crowded personal care and cosmetics aisles, where packaging aesthetics often drive purchasing decisions. By highlighting these allegations, the new lawsuit underscores the ongoing tension between brand marketing strategies and consumer protection laws.

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