Luxury $166 shampoo recalled throughout US, Canada over risk of dangerous bacterial infection

Rinse, recall, repeat.A luxury shampoo brand has recalled two of its products over concerns that the high-end lather may be contaminated with a potentially dangerous bacterium.A voluntary nationwide recall was announced last week by Kao USA, which manufactures the shampoo through its subsidiary Oribe.The recall was issued after testing found Pluralibacter gergoviae growing inside the product.

This bacterium has the potential to cause infection, which could result in severe health consequences for vulnerable populations.According to the recall notice, the products in question are:The 8.5 oz size retails for $52.00 on the Oribe website, while the larger bottle sells for $166.

The product, developed in collaboration with a board-certified trichologist, is “proven to plump and densify strands for thicker, fuller, healthier-looking hair over the course of three months,” per the company’s website.The affected products were manufactured between February 21, 2026 and February 26, 2026.According to the recall notice, the affected products were sold nationwide in the United States and Canada at salons and other retailers.

Pluralibacter gergoviae bacteria have a reputation for contaminating cosmetics, due in part to their resistance to parabens and other preservatives.In 2024, nearly a million units of Amika Mirrorball High Shine + Protect Antioxidant Shampoo were voluntarily recalled due to contamination by Pluralibacter gergoviae.

The infection caused by this bacterium has been linked to a slew of negative health consequences, including eye infections, respiratory diseases, urinary tract infections, and even sepsis.A day after Kao announced the recall, the FDA posted the notice on its website, noting that while the risk of serious illness is low, it can be life-threatening to the immunocompromised.

“Though Pluralibacter gergoviae bacteria pose little medical risk to healthy people, those with certain health issues such as weakened immune systems may be more...