Superman first donned his tights in 1938

DC Comics say that the word Kryptonite was first used in a 1943 Superman radio episode.

The suit claims: "As is undoubtedly well-known throughout the world, DC coined the term Kryptonite to represent an element from Superman's home planet, Krypton.

"While Superman is virtually invulnerable and can withstand such things as a hail of bullets, he is helpless in the face of Kryptonite radiation."

The lawsuit also claims that because Kryptonite gel has a "TM" (trademark) symbol, that the public might think there is an association between the gel and the character, giving Wella an unfair benefit from Superman's fame.

Regeneration

The character of Superman has been boosted recently by the TV series Smallville.

The show, which depicts a young Clark Kent who is learning his powers, has been a huge hit on both sides of the Atlantic.

Superman has been portrayed many times on TV and film, arguably most famously by Christopher Reeve.

He starred as the hero in four big screen adventures from 1978.

Former professional American footballer Dean Cain played the hero in a TV series which ran between 1993 and 1997.

Tom Welling plays the latest incarnation in Smallville, chronicling the superhero's early years.

A Wella spokesman was not available for comment.