A Moscow-based hair stylist named Anastasia received a pre-trial…
A Moscow-based hair stylist named Anastasia received a pre-trial warning from the American company Allergan, which owns the trademark for 'Botox,' after attempting to register her own trademark 'Anastasia BOTOX' with a provocative slogan. Allergan demanded she cease using the term 'Botox' in all contexts and threatened legal action if she did not comply.
Consensus
- Allergan, the company that owns the Botox trademark, sent a pre-trial warning to a Moscow-based hair stylist named Anastasia.
- Anastasia attempted to register a trademark called 'Anastasia BOTOX' in Russia.
- The trademark application included a provocative slogan, described as 'RAZ'YABALA mir volos' (roughly 'F***ed up the world of hair').
- Allergan claimed the slogan damages the brand's reputation and demanded the withdrawal of the trademark application.
- Allergan requested that Anastasia cease using any variations of the word 'Botox' in social media, domains, and advertising.
- Allergan threatened legal action, including filing with antitrust authorities and courts, if the demands were not met.
- Allergan has not made official product shipments to Russia since 2022, but its trademark rights remain valid in Russia.
- Allergan has a history of successfully defending its Botox trademark globally in court.
- In Russia, Allergan has previously only pursued cases related to counterfeit products, not trademark disputes.
Points of divergence
- Allergan reportedly demanded that the stylist completely stop using the word 'Botox' in all forms, including in social media, domains, and promotional materials. — riamo
- Anastasia admitted in an interview with Baza that she was shocked by the situation and is now seriously considering rebranding. — tg_bazabazon
Coverage (2 sources)
- Threats from the US: Moscow woman banned from using the word 'Botox' — РИАМО
- American company banned 'Botox' for Russian business — entrepreneurs face lawsuits over use of patented word — Baza