Summary (tl;dr)

Kao USA has voluntarily recalled specific lots of its Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo in the U.S. and Canada after the detection of Pluralibacter gergoviae bacteria, which can pose a health risk, especially to individuals with weakened immune systems.

Essential Background

Pluralibacter gergoviae is a gram-negative bacterium commonly found in water that has been identified as a contaminant in cosmetic products. This bacterium is of particular concern to the consumer product industry due to its resistance to many common cosmetic preservatives. While generally considered to pose little medical risk to healthy individuals, it can cause infections in people with certain health issues, such as weakened immune systems or chronic illnesses. Infections can manifest in various ways, including bloodstream infections, pulmonary infections, and urinary tract infections. There have been previous instances of cosmetic product recalls due to contamination with this type of bacteria, including a significant recall of Amika shampoo in 2024.

The Full Story

On July 1, 2026, Kao USA Inc. announced a voluntary recall of specific lots of its Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo, available in 8.5 oz and 33.8 oz sizes, in both the United States and Canada. The recall was initiated following the detection of Pluralibacter gergoviae bacteria within these products. The affected shampoos were manufactured between February 21, 2026, and February 26, 2026. Specifically, the 8.5 oz bottles with UPC 840035231242 and lot code YR010556, and the 33.8 oz bottles with UPC 840035231273 and lot codes YR010566 and YR010576 are impacted. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) subsequently issued a report warning consumers about the recall. Kao USA is urging consumers with the affected products to discontinue use immediately, regardless of their health status, and is working with the FDA to ensure the removal of these lots from warehouses and retail outlets. Retailers and salons have been asked to stop selling the recalled lots and return them.

Why It Matters

This recall is significant due to the potential health risks posed by Pluralibacter gergoviae contamination, particularly for vulnerable individuals. While healthy people may experience little medical risk, those with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses, or who are undergoing surgical procedures are more susceptible to severe infections. The bacterium's resistance to common cosmetic preservatives also highlights ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety and sterility of personal care products. Consumers are concerned about product safety and the reliability of cosmetic manufacturing processes. The recall emphasizes the importance for consumers to check their personal care products against recall notices and to report any adverse health effects to the manufacturer and relevant authorities.

Geographic Location

• Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (Kao USA Inc. headquarters, location of recall announcement)
• United States (distribution of recalled shampoo)
• Canada (distribution of recalled shampoo)
• Washington, D.C., District of Columbia, United States (U.S. Food and Drug Administration report on the recall)