Feds Suspend Face-Peel Machine Bans as Patent Expires Soon
Published Date: 3/26/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. International Trade Commission found that some hydrodermabrasion systems broke patent rules, but since the patent is about to expire, they’re pausing the usual bans and fines. This affects companies importing or selling these products, especially HydraFacial LLC, who filed the complaint. The investigation is now over, with no extra costs or restrictions for now.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Remedial Orders Issued But Suspended
The Commission decided to issue a limited exclusion order and a cease and desist order but suspended issuance because the asserted '287 patent will expire on March 29, 2026, six days after the orders issue. Because the bond was set at 0% and the patent expires during Presidential review, the Commission stated the orders will not have any future remedial effect.
Zero Percent Bond During Presidential Review
The Commission set the bond at zero percent (0%) of the entered value of the covered products during the period of Presidential review. This means importers would not be required to post a bond during that review period.
Respondent Found to Infringe Patent
The U.S. International Trade Commission determined that respondent Cartessa violated section 337 by importing and selling hydrodermabrasion systems that infringe claims 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 22, 24, and 25 of the '287 patent. The Commission affirmed the violation on review in a vote held March 23, 2026.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20752, Certain Hydrodermabrasion Systems and Components Thereof; Notice of Vacatur of the Commission's Final Determination and Mootness of the Investigation by the Federal Circuit Due to Patent Expiration
The U.S. International Trade Commission's investigation into certain hydrodermabrasion systems has been canceled because the key patent expired. This affects companies like HydraFacial and Cartessa, ending any legal battles over these products. The case officially closed in March 2026, so no money penalties or import bans will happen now.
2026-20673, Seamless Carbon and Alloy Steel Standard, Line, and Pressure Pipe From Czechia, Russia, South Korea, and Ukraine; Scheduling of Full Five-Year Reviews
The U.S. International Trade Commission is kicking off a full review to decide if special duties on seamless steel pipes from Czechia, Russia, South Korea, and Ukraine should stay or go. This review could impact import costs and the steel market, with decisions expected soon after a possible 90-day extension. Steel makers, importers, and users should keep an eye on this as it could affect prices and supply.
2026-20609, Oleoresin Paprika From India; Determinations
The U.S. International Trade Commission found that imports of oleoresin paprika from India are hurting American businesses because they’re being sold at unfairly low prices and getting government subsidies. This means U.S. companies like Rezolex, Ltd. Co. get some protection through trade rules starting now. Importers and sellers of this spice should expect changes that could affect prices and supply soon.
2026-20672, Certain Mobile Electronic Devices and Components Thereof; Institution of Investigation
The U.S. International Trade Commission is launching an investigation into certain mobile electronic devices and their parts because trinamiX Sensing LLC and trinamiX GmbH say some products are using their patented technology without permission. This could lead to orders stopping imports and sales of these devices in the U.S., affecting companies involved and possibly shaking up the market soon. The investigation started after complaints filed in September 2026 and could impact money and product availability.
2026-20614, Forged Steel Fittings From India and South Korea; Cancellation of Hearing for Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Reviews
The U.S. International Trade Commission has canceled the public hearing for the review of antidumping and countervailing duties on forged steel fittings from India and South Korea. This change affects companies like Bonney Forge and related unions, who will now answer questions without a formal hearing. The cancellation speeds up the process, with no immediate money changes but keeps the review on track.
2026-20349, Railway Tank Cars and Parts Thereof From Mexico; Institution of Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Investigations and Scheduling of Preliminary Phase Investigations
The U.S. is launching investigations to see if cheap railway tank cars and parts from Mexico are hurting American businesses. If these imports are found to be unfairly priced or subsidized, extra duties might be added to protect U.S. makers. The first big decision is due by November 16, 2026, so things are moving fast!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-05852, National Eye Institute; Notice of Closed Meeting
The National Eye Institute is holding a private virtual meeting on April 6, 2026, to review the skills and work of its researchers. This meeting affects the scientists working on eye research and helps ensure top-quality projects continue. No public attendance or funding changes are involved, but it’s a key step in keeping eye research sharp and effective.
Next: 2026-05854, Finding of Mass Influx of Aliens
The Department of Homeland Security has officially declared a mass influx of people crossing the border, extending this status through March 21, 2026. This means local and state officers can help with immigration duties to keep communities safe. The move affects border areas and signals ongoing government action and resources to manage the situation.