What measures do celebrities take to protect their images from being used for commercial purposes without permission? How much does this typically cost them?

Take the lawsuit through trial ($XX,XXX to $X,XXX,XXX+)

Send off a Cease & Desist demand ($XXX to $X,XXX)

File a lawsuit and push for early settlement ($X,XXX to $XX,XXX+)

I see ugly guys dating gorgeous, "hot" women all the time. I, too, am not very attractive but I'm not doing well with the ladies. What's their secret?

Right of Publicity Laws - Varies by state. Some states have statutes that specifically forbid using a celebrity’s likeness (and even voice) for commercial use without appropriate permission.

As far as the cost goes, that will vary depending on how far the celebrity has to go. Aside from the deterrent effect created by the mere existence of the laws (cost = $0), a celebrity may need to hire a lawyer to:

Common Law - Varies by state. Many states recognize what are known as “the four privacy torts,” which include “appropriation of another's name or likeness.”

Had strong anxiety, heart palpitations, headaches and fear randomly over twin flame presence, 20 mins later he didnt acknowledge me saw a photo of a girl on the back of his phone faced up. Assume it was a new gf. Was this a warning of seperation?

The Lanham Act - Federal. While the Lanham Act is generally thought of in the context of Trademark law, Section 43 has a provision regarding “false endorsement” that has been used by celebrities (notably, Carmen Electra) to fight the unauthorized commercial use of their likeness.

From a legal perspective, they rely on the various state and federal laws that give them actionable claims against people/businesses that use their images without permission. A few examples of these laws are: