Mitchum UK Deodorant Litigation: What You Need to Know & How We Can Help

Over recent weeks, there has been growing concern and media attention around reports that certain batches of Mitchum 48-hour roll-on antiperspirant/deodorant have caused skin irritation to some users – including severe rashes, burning sensations, blistering and in some cases, alleged permanent scarring. If you believe you may have been affected, you may have legal rights.

Here’s what’s going on, what the law says, and how our firm can assist.

What’s caused Mitchum deodorant to be withdrawn?

Mitchum UK publicly acknowledged a problem with certain batches of their 48-hour roll-on antiperspirant/deodorant. Users reported adverse skin reactions, including burning, irritation, redness, bumps, and, in some cases, discolouration or scarring. The problem was attributed to a change in the manufacturing process of one of its raw materials.

Affected batches were sold in the UK, Ireland, and South Africa. Mitchum has since reverted to the original manufacturing process and begun withdrawing the problematic batches from sale.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) issued a safety alert, classifying the issue as a “health risk” and directing that the product be withdrawn from market.

What are your legal options following Mitchum deodorant burns?

If you used one of the affected products and experienced injury or damage, there are several potential legal claims you might explore, including a product liability claim against the manufacturer of the product under the Consumer Protection Act 1987. Under UK law, manufacturers are obliged to ensure that their products are safe for intended use. If a product causes injury because of a manufacturing defect or inadequate warnings, a claim may be founded in product liability.

Claims can also be brought in negligence if the manufacturer (or distributor) failed to take reasonable care, e.g. by not adequately testing the changed manufacturing process, or not warning users properly of the risks.

What evidence will be important to build a legal case against Mitchum?

To assess a possible claim, you’ll likely need to gather:

• The batch code on the deodorant you used. The safety reports list specific batch codes for the products implicated.
• Proof of purchase or where/when you bought the product.

• Photographs of the reaction (rash, blistering, discolouration etc.) taken as soon as possible, and ideally over time.
• Medical records showing any treatment you sought (for example GP, dermatologist, hospital records

Where can I locate the batch number of my Mitchum deodorant?

Batch numbers are printed on the bottom on the product.

What to do if I have been affected by Mitchum deodorant burns?

If you believe you have been harmed by a Mitchum deodorant:

• Stop using the product immediately.
• Retain the product (if possible), especially any packaging with batch codes and the receipt.
• Take photographs of the reaction over time.
• Seek medical attention/document treatment.
• Contact a solicitor with expertise in product safety or consumer claims.
• Our firm is now investigating claims and speaking with people who’ve been affected.

Sarah Samuel, a Partner in Fletchers Medical Product Liability Department said: “We’re hearing from people who’ve suffered painful and distressing reactions – in some cases with lasting effects. If a personal care product causes harm due to a manufacturing fault, those affected deserve answers and fair compensation.”

Get in touch with a legal specialist 

We can help guide you through whether you have a claim and what compensation you may be entitled to. If you or a loved one have experienced adverse reactions or injury from Mitchum deodorants, contact Fletchers today for a free consultation.