Bombay HC restrains Sebamed campaign, but OOH displays still up

German skincare brand Sebamed has taken on competition with aggressive advertising on different media channels including OOH. The brand has targeted competing brands like HUL's Lux and Dove to detergent brand Rin, and claims that the beauty soaps do not maintain the optimal 5.5 pH level meant for sensitive skin. The same strong claims have made on the OOH canvas too, with Sebamed highlighting the pH level of various leading soap brands.

This week, the Bombay High Court passed a restraining order on USV Pvt. Ltd, retailer of Sebamed in India, and its affiliates, and advertising agencies from using, telecasting or broadcasting or communicating to the public through TV, newspaper, hoardings and other material, or in any language of similar nature. However, the OOH campaign is still continuing.

Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) had taken the matter to the apex claiming that Sebamed’s advertisement harms the reputation of its products and the brand, without seeking complete information about its Lux soap. 

The HC has reserved the order after listening to the case of both parties. The Court’s stand will be known on January 19.