Something you purchased has been recalled. What does that mean?
What happens if something you purchase is recalled? Is it voluntary or mandatory? And what does it mean for you?
Consumers are being urged to check their bathrooms after Kao USA voluntarily recalled some bottles of Oribe Serine Scalp Densifying Shampoo due to possible bacterial contamination.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the recall after Kao USA announced that it would voluntarily recall certain lots of shampoo sold in the U.S. and Canada. The recall applies to 8.5-ounce and 33.8-ounce bottles manufactured between February 21, 2026 and February 26, 2026.
According to the company, the Pluralibacter gergoviae bacteria poses little medical risk to healthy people. However, people with weakened immune systems or certain underlying health conditions may be more susceptible to infection. Kao USA is asking anyone using the affected products to stop using them.
The recall is limited to a specific lot of Oribe Serine Scalp Densifying Shampoo, and the company said it continues to investigate the scope of the problem while working with the FDA to remove affected products from distribution.
Here’s what you need to know about the products included in the recall, the states where they were sold, and what consumers should do.
Which Oribe Shampoo products are subject to recall?
The recall includes the following Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo products:
Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo, 8.5 oz.
- UPC: 840035231242
- Affected lot code: YR010556
Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo, 33.8 oz.
- UPC: 840035231273
- Affected lot codes: YR010566, YR010576
Consumers can find the affected lot code printed in black on the bottom of the bottle.
What should consumers do?
Kao USA is advising consumers who own the affected shampoo bottles to immediately stop using them.
The company is also asking retailers and salons to remove the bottles from sale or use and return them for safe disposal.
Consumers who experience an adverse event after using the shampoo, wish to arrange a replacement, or have questions regarding the recall should contact the Kao Professional Hair Technical Hotline at 800-333-2442 or email oribecomplaints@kao.com.
Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com or X @athompsonUSAT..
