Feds Launch Probe into Patent-Busting Facial Zapping Devices
Published Date: 11/28/2025
Notice
Summary
The U.S. International Trade Commission is launching an investigation into certain microcurrent facial toning devices, following a complaint from ZIIP, Inc. and The Beauty Tech Group Ltd. They claim some imported devices violate their patents and want the Commission to block these products from entering or being sold in the U.S. This could affect companies selling these devices and might lead to new import restrictions soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Named respondent faces deadline and risk
The notice names The Carol Cole Co. d/b/a NuFACE as the respondent and requires the respondent to file responses in accordance with 19 CFR 210.13; responses will be considered if received not later than 20 days after the date of service of the complaint and notice of investigation. The notice warns that failure to file a timely response may be treated as a waiver and could lead to an initial or final determination and the issuance of an exclusion order or cease and desist order against the respondent.
Possible U.S. import ban on facial toners
On November 24, 2025 the U.S. International Trade Commission opened an investigation alleging that certain imported microcurrent facial toning devices infringe U.S. Patent No. 10,967,180 and U.S. Patent No. 12,042,652. The complainants asked the Commission to issue a limited exclusion order and a cease and desist order that could block the importation or sale of the accused products in the United States.
Which products are under scrutiny
The Commission defined the scope of the investigation as "handheld facial toning devices and accessories for such devices that are used in conjunction with a mobile application." If you sell or import those kinds of handheld facial toning devices, your products are the ones being investigated.
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