Neutrogena Makeup Remover Recall: Specific Lot of Ultra-Soft Towelettes Pulled for Bacterial Contamination

A limited batch of Neutrogena makeup remover wipes has been recalled after quality testing flagged potential contamination with Pluralibacter gergoviae, a bacterium that can cause infections—particularly in people with weakened immune systems or when used around the eyes. The voluntary recall centers on one identified lot of Neutrogena Makeup Remover Ultra-Soft Cleansing Towelettes (50-count packs) distributed to select U.S. states.

What’s being recalled

• Product: Neutrogena Makeup Remover Ultra-Soft Cleansing Towelettes

• Pack size: 50-count individual packs

• Lot code: 1835U6325A (printed on the package; check near the seal or back panel)

• Quantity affected: 1,312 cases

• Distribution date: September 19, 2025

• Distribution footprint: Texas, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida (products could still travel beyond those states via secondary sales, personal travel, or online resellers)

No other lot codes or Neutrogena wipe formats are part of this action based on current information.

Why the wipes were recalled

Internal testing detected Pluralibacter gergoviae. This organism is known to occasionally contaminate personal-care products and can resist some common cosmetic preservatives. Healthy individuals may experience only mild irritation, if any. However, use near sensitive areas—especially the eyes—or by those who are immunocompromised, have open cuts, recent procedures, or underlying skin conditions may increase the risk of infection.

Potential symptoms to watch for include new or worsening redness, burning, stinging, swelling, discharge, rash, or tenderness on skin or eyelids after use. Systemic symptoms such as fever are less common but warrant prompt medical evaluation.

What consumers should do now

1. Stop using the product immediately if your package shows lot 1835U6325A.

2. Dispose of the wipes in household trash; do not flush.

3. Document the package (photos of front, back, and lot code) for your records.

4. Request a refund or replacement through the brand’s consumer-care channels or the retailer where you purchased the product. Have the lot code ready.

5. Seek medical advice if you’ve experienced irritation, eye discomfort, or signs of infection after using the wipes—especially if you’re immunocompromised or recently had eye/skin procedures.

If your wipes do not match the listed lot code, this recall does not apply to your package.

Retailers and pharmacies: steps to take

• Pull all inventory of the affected lot immediately and segregate it from saleable stock.

• Check back-room cases as well as shelves—cases may contain 25 individual 50-count packs; each pack will display the same lot code.

• Post a recall notice at point-of-sale and within online product listings to catch recent purchasers.

• Enable hassle-free returns or store credit for customers presenting photos or empty packaging with the lot code.

What this means for everyday routines

Makeup remover wipes are often used around the most sensitive real estate on the face. Until your product is verified as safe (or replaced), swap in alternatives with a strong hygiene profile:

• Micellar water + cotton pads (single-use pads, clean hands, avoid double-dipping).

• Pump-top cleansing balms/oils followed by a gentle second cleanse.

• Reusable cloths laundered on hot and fully dried between uses.

Regardless of format, wash hands before cleansing, avoid touching the bottle opening or pad stack, and discard products by their period after opening (PAO) symbol to reduce contamination risk.

How recalls like this typically proceed

Cosmetics recalls in the U.S. are commonly voluntary, initiated by the manufacturer in coordination with federal authorities. Once a problematic lot is identified, companies notify distributors and retailers, issue consumer alerts, and set up reimbursement channels. Follow-up testing and root-cause analysis often focus on raw-material integrity, preservative levels, filling-line sanitation, and packaging seals. If the investigation links issues to a broader batch, the scope can expand; for now, the action remains limited to lot 1835U6325A.

Key takeaways at a glance

• Scope: One lot of 50-count Ultra-Soft Cleansing Towelettes; lot 1835U6325A.

• Where sold: Initially shipped Sept. 19, 2025 to TX, SC, GA, FL.

• Risk: Possible contamination with Pluralibacter gergoviae; higher concern near eyes and for immunocompromised users.

• Action: Stop use, dispose, and request refund/replacement; contact a clinician if symptoms occur.

• Status: Developing. Updates may refine the scope or add guidance as the investigation progresses.

If you or a family member use Neutrogena makeup remover wipes, check your packs today. Verifying the lot code takes seconds and provides peace of mind—especially for products used on and around the eyes.