Kao recalls – Kao USA Inc., through its Oribe brand, has launched a voluntary nationwide recall of two Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo products after concerns they may be contaminated with Pluralibacter gergoviae, a drug-resistant bacterium. The recall covers specific
For anyone who keeps a backup bottle at home, the reminder is blunt: stop using the Oribe shampoo you may have on hand. Kao USA Inc. has initiated a voluntary recall of two products after concerns they could contain a drug-resistant bacterium linked to serious infections in certain people.
Last week, Kao USA Inc. announced the recall of two products made by its subsidiary Oribe, which produces a range of haircare items, including shampoos and conditioners. One day later, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) posted the recall notice on its website.
The recall targets two shampoo products that have the possibility of being contaminated with a bacterium called Pluralibacter gergoviae. The company says there is a chance the bacteria could cause an infection in the user, with severe health consequences for select individuals.
The products are:
Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo, 8.5 oz size (UPC 840035231242) with lot code YR010556
Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo, 33.8 oz size (UPC 840035231273) with lot codes YR010566 and YR010576
Kao’s recall notice says the affected products were manufactured between February 21, 2026 and February 26, 2026.
Pluralibacter gergoviae is a bacterium that has been associated with cosmetic product recalls. According to Melbec Microbiology, the bacterium is resistant to many preservatives commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products. Infection is rare in healthy individuals. but Melbec Microbiology says it can be especially dangerous for people with chronic illnesses. weakened immune systems. or those undergoing surgical procedures.
Melbec Microbiology also links Pluralibacter gergoviae infections to conditions including sepsis, eye infections, respiratory diseases, and urinary tract infections. Kao’s recall notice includes a similar warning. saying: “Though Pluralibacter gergoviae bacteria pose little medical risk to healthy people. those with certain health issues such as weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to infection by the bacteria.”.
Kao says the recalled products were sold nationwide in the United States and Canada. The shampoo was sold at salons and other retailers.
For customers holding the affected bottles, the next step is immediate. Kao instructs anyone with the recalled products to discontinue their use. The company says replacements can be arranged by contacting the Kao Professional Hair Technical Hotline at 800-333-2442 or emailing oribecomplaints@kao.com.
The sequence of events—Kao’s voluntary recall followed quickly by the FDA posting—leaves little room for delay. The risk isn’t framed as universal; it’s framed as targeted, with the greatest concern for people whose health status leaves them less able to fight off infection.
Kao USA Inc. Oribe shampoo recall Pluralibacter gergoviae drug-resistant bacterium FDA recall notice haircare recall UPC 840035231242 UPC 840035231273 lot code YR010556 lot codes YR010566 YR010576
So it’s “drug-resistant” shampoo now? Great, love that for my scalp.
I literally bought the little one last month and I didn’t keep the UPC. How do they expect people to check lot codes without a spreadsheet? Also isn’t this like rare… but still, why are they even using that ingredient stuff.
Wait, I thought drug-resistant bacterium comes from hospitals not shampoo?? So are they saying it could cause infections in everyone or just like “select individuals” which basically means anyone with bad luck? I’m confused because it says infection is rare in healthy people, then says severe health consequences.
This is why I don’t trust fancy hair brands. If it was manufactured Feb 21–Feb 26 2026, then maybe it’s the whole year? Like how many bottles could there be, and why didn’t they stop it before it hit shelves. I already gave away a backup bottle to my sister too… ugh.