Dr Squatch has agreed to a proposed $9 million settlement in a US class-action lawsuit alleging that its personal care products were marketed as “natural” despite containing synthetic ingredients.
The case was filed in the Superior Court of California for Los Angeles County by consumers who claimed the company’s soaps, shampoos, conditioners, deodorants and other products were misleadingly labelled. Dr Squatch denies the allegations and maintains that its products were properly described.
The settlement does not include an admission of liability or wrongdoing. The company agreed to the deal to avoid the cost, uncertainty and disruption of continuing litigation, while the court has yet to grant final approval.
Who can claim money from the Dr Squatch settlement?
Consumers in the United States who bought qualifying Dr Squatch products between 1 November 2018 and 29 August 2026 may be eligible to submit a claim.
The settlement covers products carrying the word “natural” on their packaging or labelling. The official notice lists items including natural bar soap, beard oil, body wash, cologne, conditioner, deodorant, face wash, shampoo, toothpaste and wipes.
Claimants can seek 50 cents for each eligible product. Those without proof of purchase can claim for up to five products, while receipts or order confirmations allow claims for up to 20 additional products. The maximum combined claim is therefore $12.50 per household.
Payments may be reduced on a pro-rata basis, depending on the number of valid claims submitted and the amount remaining in the settlement fund after approved costs and awards. The proposed fund also covers legal fees of up to $3 million, administration costs estimated at $475,000, litigation expenses and incentive payments for the named claimants.
How to submit a claim
Eligible consumers can file online through the official Dr Squatch settlement website or submit a form by post to the settlement administrator in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
The deadline for claims is 27 November 2026. Anyone wishing to opt out of the settlement or object to its terms must do so by 13 October 2026.
A final approval hearing is scheduled for 2 March 2027 at the Superior Court of California in Los Angeles. No payments will be made unless the settlement receives final court approval, and the value of individual payouts will depend on the number of successful claims.
