942. Misbranding of Presto for Blackheads.    U. S. v. 11 Packages of Presto for
Blackheads.    Default   decree    of    condemnation.    Product    ordered   de-
stroyed.     (F. D. C. No. 8100.    Sample No. 12815-F.)
On August 14, 1942, the United States attorney for the District of Oregon filed
a libel at Portland, Oreg., against 11 packages, each containing 1 dozen sticks,
of an article labeled, "Presto for Blackheads," alleging that the article had
been shipped in interstate commerce on or about July 21, 1942, by the McJohn
Cosmetic Co. from Hollywood, Calif.
Analysis of a sample of the product showed that it consisted essentially of a
mixture of ground pumice and titanium dioxide, incorporated in a hydrated waxy
base.
The article was alleged to be misbranded in that the following statements
appearing in the labeling were false and misleading as applied to a product that
was not effective in removing blackheads and in keeping the pores of the skin
clean: "Presto for Blackheads. Quick Aid for Blackheads * * * A clean
skin is the foundation for a beautiful complexion: don't allow your complexion to
be marred by unsightly Blackheads. Never squeeze or pinch Blackheads; squeez-
ing injures the skin and encourages large pores and Blackheads. Use Presto Stick
and Eliminate Squeezing * * * In case of stubborn Blackheads use Pflesto
Stick once daily for several days. Thereafter use from time to time, as re-
quired, to keep the pores clean."
It was alleged to be misbranded further in that the label failed to bear the
common or usual name of the active ingredients.
The article was also .misbranded as reported in cosmetic notices of judgment.
On October 8, 1942, no claimant having appeared, judgment of condemnation
was entered and the product was ordered destroyed.