Pluralibacter gergoviae bacteria was detected in some batches of the brand's Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo in the U.S. and Canada
NEED TO KNOW
- Several lots of Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo were recalled due to potential bacterial contamination
- The bacteria pose minimal risk to healthy individuals but could harm those with weakened immune systems
- Customers can report issues or request replacements through Kao USA’s hotline or email
Several lots of Oribe's Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo were recalled due to the presence of the bacteria Pluralibacter gergoviae.
The voluntary recall was initiated on Wednesday, July 1, and is limited to "specific lots of the Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo in the 8.5 oz. and 33.8 oz. sizes," according to the release from manufacturer Kao USA Inc., which was published on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) website.
"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," the statement reads, urging customers to discontinue use immediately.
There is an active investigation into the bacterial contamination of the products, according to the Kao USA statement.
The recall affects some bottles of Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo in 8.5 oz. and 33.8 oz. sizes, manufactured between Feb. 21 and Feb. 26.
"The affected lot code for the 8.5 oz. size (UPC 840035231242) can be found on the bottom of the bottle, printed in black, and begins with the prefix 'YR': YR010556," according to the release.
"The affected lot codes for the 33.8 oz. size (UPC 840035231273) can be found on the bottom of the bottle, printed in black, and begin with the prefix 'YR': YR010566, YR010576," the release reads.
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Customers may report side effects or ask for a replacement product by calling the Kao Professional Hair Technical Hotline at 800-333-2442 or by sending an email to oribecomplaints@kao.com.
"We are working with the FDA to voluntarily recall the affected lots of the product in question from our warehouses," Kao USA said in a statement. "We are also asking retail and salon partners to remove affected lots from use and/or sale and return them to us for safe disposal."
Pluralibacter gergoviae was considered "rare but clinically relevant" in a January 2026 study published in the National Library of Medicine.
PEOPLE has reached out to Kao USA and Oribe.
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