Popular face wipes recalled over contamination with bacteria that causes deadly sepsis
More than 15,000 face wipes across the US have been recalled for potentially containing life-threatening bacteria.
The recall was issued by Kenvue, the parent company of Neutrogena, after internal testing revealed traces of pluralibacter gergoviae, a bacterium that can lead to various infections, in certain batches of its makeup remover towelettes.
The contamination source has not been determined, and so far, there have been no confirmed reports of illnesses linked to the affected products.
According to the FDA, the recall covers 1,312 cases of 50- and 25-packs of Neutrogena’s Makeup Remover Ultra-Soft Cleansing Towelettes marked with lot number 1835U6325A.
Each case contains 12 individual packages. The products were distributed in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas.
Kenvue stated in an email that the recall was initiated ‘out of an abundance of caution,’ emphasizing that no other Neutrogena products were impacted by the contamination.
The bacterium pluralibacter gergoviae has been linked to respiratory diseases, urinary tract infections and eye infections.
It can also trigger sepsis, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to an infection, leading to widespread inflammation and organ damage.
The recall was issued by Kenvue, the parent company of Neutrogena, after internal testing revealed traces of pluralibacter gergoviae, a bacterium that can lead to various infections, in certain batches of its makeup remover towelettes
Pluralibacter gergoviae (formerly Enterobacter gergoviae) is a type of bacteria commonly found in soil, water, and various natural environments.
In cosmetic manufacturing, it can sometimes make its way into products through contaminated raw materials, a compromised production environment, or errors in the manufacturing process itself.
Moist, nutrient-rich products like creams, lotions, and makeup wipes are most at risk when it comes to cosmetics, as these make for perfect conditions for bacteria to survive and multiply.
Occasionally, contamination is missed and reaches the market, sparking a recall.
From 2014 to 2019, the majority of recalls requested by the FDA (78 percent) were due to microbial contamination but it does not give the figures for pluralibacter gergoviae specifically.
The effects of pluralibacter gergoviae are more severe for those with compromised immune systems or chronic health conditions.
The contamination of cosmetic products with this bacteria has led to several product recalls in recent years.
In 2025, the hair care brand Amika recalled all bottles of this shampoo sold in 2023 and 2024 because some were contaminated with the bacteria.
The contamination source has not been determined, and so far, there have been no confirmed reports of illnesses linked to the affected products (stock image)
And in 2022, Kao USA, the manufacturer of Jergens, recalled specific lots of its Ultra Healing Moisturizer due to the presence of pluralibacter gergoviae.
Originally announced on September 19, the recall issued by Kenvue was later classified as a Class II recall by the FDA on October 3.
This classification indicates that while the probability of serious health consequences is remote, use of the product could cause ‘temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences’.
Consumers are advised to stop using the affected makeup wipes and contact Kenvue or their retailer for guidance on returns or replacements.
