Popular makeup remover wipes recalled after bacteria found: check if yours are affected

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has assigned recalled Neutrogena makeup wipes the second highest level of risk, the agency announced earlier this month.

Kenvue Brands, LLC initially recalled a number of Neutrogena makeup remover wipes shipped to four states on September 19, 2025.

During an internal investigation, the company discovered that the wipes tested positive for Pluralibacter gergoviaea type of bacteria that is resistant to preservatives found in many personal care products.

Infections P. gergoviae are rare, but in people with weakened immune systems they have been linked to respiratory illnesses, urinary tract infections, eye infections and sepsis.

The recall affects certain packages of Neutrogena makeup wipes with the following information:

• Product Name: Neutrogena Ultra-Gentle Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes, 50 ct. Pack of 25 wipes
• Batch number: Lot 1835U6325A

The recalled wipes were distributed in Texas, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.

The Class II risk level of the recall is a “medium severity classification.” It states that makeup wipes “may cause temporary or medically reversible health effects” but that “the likelihood of serious health consequences is low.”

Kenvue Brands has not shared a press release regarding this recall, so there is no information available on what to do if you have the recalled wipes. Typically, consumers are asked to stop using a recalled product and throw it away or return it to the store for a refund.