Oribe shampoo recalled over bacteria concerns as customers urged to stop using affected products

A voluntary recall has been issued for selected bottles of Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo after bacteria were detected in some products sold in the United States and Canada.

The recall was announced by Kao USA in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after tests identified the presence of Pluralibacter gergoviae, a bacterium that can pose health risks, particularly to people with weakened immune systems or underlying medical conditions.

Although the FDA says the bacteria present little risk to healthy individuals, consumers are being advised to stop using the affected shampoo immediately regardless of their health status. Possible infections linked to the bacteria include respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections and, in rare cases, sepsis.

The recall affects the following products:

• Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo (8.5 oz) – UPC: 840035231242 – Lot code: YR010556
• Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo (33.8 oz) – UPC: 840035231273 – Lot codes: YR010566 and YR010576

The affected products were manufactured between 21 February and 26 February 2026. Customers can find the lot code printed in black on the bottom of the bottle.

Kao USA is asking retailers and salons to remove the recalled shampoo from sale while affected customers can contact the company for a replacement or refund. The manufacturer says it is investigating the cause of the contamination and reviewing its production processes to help prevent similar incidents in the future.

Consumers who believe they have experienced side effects after using the recalled shampoo are advised to seek medical advice and report the incident to Kao USA or the FDA.