Summary (tl;dr)

Kao USA has issued a voluntary recall for specific lots of its Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo across the United States and Canada due to contamination with Pluralibacter gergoviae bacteria.

Essential Background

Pluralibacter gergoviae is a Gram-negative bacterium that has become a growing concern in the cosmetics and personal care industry. While it generally poses little medical risk to healthy individuals, it can cause severe infections in people with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses, or those undergoing surgical procedures. The bacterium is notable for its resistance to many common preservatives, making it a persistent contaminant in some cosmetic products. Past instances of cosmetic recalls in Europe and Canada have also been linked to this bacterium.

The Full Story

Kao USA Inc. has initiated a voluntary recall of certain lots of its Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo in both 8.5 oz and 33.8 oz sizes in the U.S. and Canada. The recall was prompted by the detection of Pluralibacter gergoviae bacteria in products manufactured between February 21 and February 26, 2026. Specific affected lot codes include YR010556 for the 8.5 oz product, and YR010566 and YR010576 for the 33.8 oz product. Kao USA is actively collaborating with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure the removal of these contaminated products from warehouses and has instructed retailers and salons to cease sales and return affected inventory for disposal. Consumers who possess these products are advised to stop using them immediately.

Why It Matters

This recall is significant due to the potential health risks posed by Pluralibacter gergoviae, particularly for vulnerable populations. Although healthy individuals are typically at low risk, those with compromised immune systems could experience more serious infections, including respiratory diseases, urinary tract infections, eye infections, and sepsis. The incident underscores the critical importance of rigorous quality control and microbiological testing in the manufacturing of cosmetic products to safeguard consumer health and maintain product safety standards within the beauty industry.

Geographic Location

• Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, United States (Kao USA Inc. recall announcement location)
• United States (distribution of recalled products)
• Canada (distribution of recalled products)