FDA warns popular face wipes can spark sepsis, other medical issues
In this DML Report…
Neutrogena, owned by Kenvue, recalled thousands of makeup-removing face wipes sold in South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and Texas after internal testing detected traces of Pluralibacter gergoviae (P. gergoviae) in certain batches. The FDA upgraded the recall to Class II, indicating potential temporary or reversible health effects or remote serious risks. Testing covered 1,300 wipes, with experts warning more contaminated products may exist due to limited sampling.
P. gergoviae resists preservatives like parabens, sodium benzoate, and isothiazolinones, thriving in moist wipes fed by makeup residues, skin cells, and oils. Entry via facial cuts, eyes, or nasal membranes can cause skin irritation or rash in healthy individuals, but respiratory distress, systemic inflammation, and sepsis in immunocompromised or pregnant patients. Untreated sepsis carries an 80 percent death rate from organ failure. The face's thin skin, blood supply, abrasions, and mucous membranes heighten vulnerability.
(read more below)
Dermatologists Dr. Dara Spearman and Dr. Shari Lipner urged returning all associated lot-numbered wipes, especially for immunocompromised users with skin barrier issues. Plastic surgeon Dr. Samuel Golpanian noted risks escalate from superficial reactions to blood infections. Wipes also contain parabens, endocrine disruptors mimicking estrogen linked to fertility problems and hormone-related cancers, plus formaldehyde-releasers causing contact dermatitis and regulated for carcinogenicity.