Kao USA has issued a voluntary recall notice for selected batches of Oribe’s Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo in the US and Canada.
The recall follows the detection of pluralibacter gergoviae bacteria in selected lots of the product in 8.5 oz and 33.8 oz sizes.
While the bacteria detected poses little medical risk to healthy people, those with health concerns – such as weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses or those undergoing surgical procedures – may be more susceptible to infection.
The bacterium has been linked to respiratory diseases, urinary tract infections, eye infections and sepsis.
Because of this, Kao USA is urging consumers with the affected products to discontinue use, with further investigations to confirm the scope of the issue ongoing.
Affected products were manufactured between 21 February and 26 February 2026, with the following lot codes: YR010556 (8.5oz), YR010566 (33.8oz) and YR010576 (33.8oz).
Kao USA said in a statement: “We are working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to voluntarily recall the affected lots of the product in question from our warehouses.
“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.
“At Kao USA, the safety of our products and consumers is our highest priority.
“We are working with our partners to review manufacturing practices to help prevent similar issues in the future.”
To report any adverse events experienced with the use of this product, arrange for a replacement or for any questions, contact the Kao Professional Hair Technical Hotline at 800-333-2442 or email oribecomplaints@kao.com.
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