CCPA Fines VLCC ₹3 Lakh for Misleading Slimming Treatment Ads

VLCC penalised for exaggerated weight-loss claims in slimming ads

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has imposed a fine of ₹3 lakh on VLCC Ltd for publishing misleading advertisements about its slimming and fat-loss treatments. The penalty was announced on August 23, 2025, after the authority concluded that VLCC’s promotional claims exaggerated the effectiveness of the U.S. FDA-approved CoolSculpting procedure.

According to the Department of Consumer Affairs, the advertisements claimed drastic weight loss and inch reduction in a single session, going well beyond the machine’s actual approved capabilities. “It was found that VLCC was making exaggerated claims of drastic weight loss and inch reduction within a single session, which went far beyond the actual approval granted to the CoolSculpting machine,” the department said in its statement.

The investigation revealed that VLCC’s ads projected CoolSculpting and similar treatments as permanent solutions for weight loss and body-size reduction, misleading consumers about their effectiveness.

In addition to the monetary penalty, the CCPA has directed VLCC to adhere strictly to its advisories for future advertisements, ensuring that claims made in the beauty and wellness sector are accurate, transparent, and in compliance with consumer protection laws.