Neutrogena Recalls Its Bestselling Makeup Wipes: What to Know

A quick PSA for anyone with a Neutrogena makeup wipe stash: you need to check your product’s lot number to see if it’s safe to keep using.

Kenvue Brands LLC, the drugstore skin-care brand’s parent company, has issued a voluntary recall of its cult-favorite Makeup Remover Ultra-Soft Cleansing Towelettes after detecting the bacterium Pluralibacter gergoviae in unopened packages.

According to a report from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the wipes fall under a Class II recall, which, per the agency, is “a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”

Melbec Microbiology, an accredited testing laboratory in the U.K. that provides microbiology testing and contract research for products such as cosmetics, biocides, personal care items and healthcare materials, has a webpage dedicated to Pluralibacter gergoviae. The organization explains that “infections in healthy individuals are rare,” but notes that it can “cause severe infections in people with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses or those undergoing surgical procedures.”

They add that “the bacterium has been linked to respiratory diseases, urinary tract infections, eye infections and sepsis.”

The Neutrogena recall affects 1,312 cases of the 50-count wipes (sold as two 25-count packs) with lot number 1835U6325A. Affected wipes were sold in four U.S. states: Texas, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.

To find out if your product is affected, check the lot number printed on the outside of the package. If it reads 1835U6325A, stop using them straight away. And if you notice irritation or infection symptoms—especially if you’re immunocompromised—contact your medical provider for further guidance.