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Popular cosmetics brand Neutrogena is recalling makeup wipes that may be contaminated with bacteria that can cause serious infections such as sepsis.
The ongoing recall of more than 1,000 cosmetic towels was first initiated in September, according to an enforcement report from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The wipes tested positive for Pluralibacter gergoviae, a bacterium that can cause infection in certain people.
Although the FDA classifies the risk of serious health effects as low, people with weakened immune systems or other medical conditions may develop serious illness from exposure to the bacteria.
Here’s what you need to know about the recall.
Which Neutrogena products are recalled?
- Neutrogena Makeup Remover Ultra Soft Cleansing Towel, 50 Count 25 Pack Wipes, Lot Number 1835U6325A.
According to the FDA, the makeup wipes were distributed to Texas, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida on September 19, 2025. Consumers should generally avoid using and discarding recalled products.
USA TODAY reached out to Neutrogena for comment on Thursday, October 23rd, but did not receive a response.
What is Pluralibacter gergoviae?
Pluralibacter gergoviae, or P. gergoviae, is a bacterium that can make people sick. Formerly known as Enterobacter gergoviae (E. gergoviae).
P. gergoviae is an opportunistic bacterium. That is, it does not always become pathogenic or cause disease, but under the right circumstances it can occur. This means that healthy people are unlikely to become seriously ill if exposed to P. gergoviae. However, the World Academy of Pediatrics says people who are immunocompromised or have chronic illnesses can develop serious infections caused by the bacteria, including respiratory illnesses, urinary tract infections, eye infections and sepsis.
Outside of hospitals, P. gergoviae contamination is a concern in the cosmetics industry. This is because P. gergoviae is resistant to common preservatives used in hair, makeup, lotions, creams, skin care, and many other products.
P. gergoviae cannot be killed or stopped by parabens, which are antimicrobial agents used in cosmetics and medicines to kill or prevent the growth of microorganisms such as fungi, viruses, and parasites. This has led to recalls of products such as children’s shampoos, skin creams, and hand cleaning pastes contaminated with P. gergoviae.
This bacterium is also multidrug resistant and cannot be killed by some common drugs such as penicillin.
