Following the death of actress Hayden Panettiere on August 19, 2026, social media users have called for a boycott of Neutrogena, citing her past allegations that the brand's products caused her skin issues. Panettiere had previously spoken about her struggles with acne and had endorsed Neutrogena in the past, but later claimed that the products worsened her condition.
The boycott calls have put Kenvue, the parent company of Neutrogena, under scrutiny. Kenvue, which was spun off from Johnson & Johnson in 2023, has not yet publicly responded to the backlash. The company's stock saw a slight dip in early trading on August 20, according to market data.
This incident has reignited debates over celebrity endorsements and the responsibility of brands to ensure product safety. Experts note that while there is no scientific evidence linking Neutrogena products to Panettiere's death, the public's reaction highlights the power of celebrity influence and the importance of transparency in the beauty industry.
As of now, no official statement has been released by Kenvue or Neutrogena regarding the boycott calls. The company's website still lists Neutrogena as a trusted brand, and no product recalls have been announced.
