Oribe Shampoo Recall: Select Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo Recalled After Bacteria Found
Kao USA has voluntarily recalled selected lots of its Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo in the United States and Canada after routine testing detected the presence of Pluralibacter gergoviae, a bacterium that can pose a health risk to certain consumers. The recall affects only specific batches of the popular hair care product and was issued in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
According to the company, the affected products include the 8.5-ounce and 33.8-ounce bottles of Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo manufactured between February 21 and February 26, 2026. Kao USA said the recall was initiated after the bacteria were detected in selected production lots during quality testing. The company emphasized that the action is being taken as a precaution to protect consumer health.
The bacterium, Pluralibacter gergoviae, is known to survive in some cosmetic products despite the presence of preservatives. While it generally poses little medical risk to healthy individuals, it can cause infections in people with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses, those recovering from surgery, or others with compromised health. Possible complications include respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, eye infections and, in rare cases, sepsis.
Kao USA is urging anyone who owns one of the affected bottles to stop using the product immediately. Consumers are advised to check the lot code printed in black on the bottom of the bottle to determine whether their shampoo is included in the recall. Only the specified lots are affected, and the company has stressed that other Oribe products are not part of the recall.
The recalled products include:
- 8.5-ounce bottle (UPC 840035231242): Lot code YR010556
- 33.8-ounce bottle (UPC 840035231273): Lot codes YR010566 and YR010576
Kao USA said it is working closely with the FDA to remove the affected products from warehouses and distribution channels. Retailers and salon partners have also been instructed to remove the recalled lots from shelves and return them for proper disposal. The company noted that investigations into the source of the contamination remain ongoing while manufacturing practices are being reviewed to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
Consumers who experience any adverse health effects after using the recalled shampoo are encouraged to contact a healthcare provider and report the incident to Kao USA. The company is offering replacement products for affected customers and has established a technical hotline and email support service to assist with questions and claims.
The recall highlights the importance of strict quality control within the cosmetics and personal care industry. Although bacterial contamination in shampoos and other beauty products is relatively uncommon, experts note that microorganisms such as Pluralibacter gergoviae can occasionally survive in cosmetic formulations if contamination occurs during manufacturing. Prompt recalls help reduce the risk of consumer exposure and reinforce confidence in product safety standards.
Industry analysts say Oribe has built a strong reputation as a premium professional hair care brand, making the voluntary recall especially significant. The company has emphasized that consumer safety remains its highest priority and that it is cooperating fully with regulators throughout the recall process.
Customers who purchased Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo are encouraged to inspect their bottles carefully and compare the lot code with the recalled batches. Those whose products match the affected codes should discontinue use immediately and contact Kao USA for a replacement or additional instructions. While the risk to healthy users is considered low, the company and health officials advise that caution is the safest approach until the recall has been fully completed.
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