WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a nationwide voluntary recall of select lots of Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo after the product’s manufacturer, Kao USA Inc., detected the presence of Pluralibacter gergoviae, a bacteria that can pose health risks to certain consumers.

The recall was issued on July 1 and affects specific lots of the premium shampoo sold throughout the United States and Canada. The recalled products include both the 8.5-ounce and 33.8-ounce bottles of Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo.  

What Is the Health Risk?

According to the FDA and Kao USA, Pluralibacter gergoviae generally presents little risk to healthy individuals. However, people with weakened immune systems, underlying medical conditions, or compromised skin may be at greater risk of developing infections if exposed to the bacteria. In rare cases, the bacteria has been associated with infections involving the skin, eyes, respiratory tract, urinary tract, and bloodstream.  

Although no illnesses related to the recalled shampoo have been reported, Kao USA is urging consumers to stop using the affected products immediately as a precaution.  

Which Products Are Being Recalled?

The recall is limited to shampoo manufactured between February 21 and February 26, 2026, and includes the following 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 and YR010576

Consumers can locate the lot code printed in black on the bottom of the bottle.  

What Should Consumers Do?

Anyone who owns one of the recalled shampoos should:

• Stop using the product immediately.
• Check the lot code on the bottom of the bottle.
• Contact Kao USA for a replacement or additional instructions.
• Consult a healthcare provider if they experience symptoms they believe may be related to using the recalled shampoo.

Consumers can contact Kao USA through its Professional Hair Technical Hotline at 800-333-2442 or by emailing oribecomplaints@kao.com for assistance.  

A Premium Brand Under Scrutiny

Oribe is a luxury haircare brand popular in professional salons and among consumers seeking products for thinning hair and scalp health. The recalled shampoo has received industry recognition in recent years, making the recall particularly notable within the beauty industry. Importantly, the recall applies only to specific lots of the shampoo and does not include other products in the Oribe Serene Scalp line, such as the conditioner or treatment spray.  

The FDA and Kao USA continue to investigate the source of the contamination while working with retailers, salons, and distributors to remove the affected products from circulation.  

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