Recalled
More Than Just Bacteria
The Recall Details
One of the beauty world's most overhyped, ingredient-questionable staples just got recalled: Neutrogena's Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes. Millions are sold each year, making this a significant event.
The recall affects the 25-count plant-based compostable wipes (Lot #1835U6325A distributed in Texas, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida). They tested positive for Pluralibacter gergoviae, bacteria that can cause infections and are known for resisting common cosmetic preservatives.
Why This Matters
Makeup wipes like Neutrogena's are typically water-based, requiring a strong preservative system to prevent mold and bacteria. Besides the contamination risk, the ingredient list itself raises concerns:
Water - requires preservatives
Harsh surfactants - Can strip the skin's natural barrier, leaving it dry and irritated
Allergenic preservatives - Ingredients like iodopropynyl butylcarbamate are potential skin sensitizers and are restricted in some regions
Recall aside, these wipes contain subpar ingredients and aren't the best tool for removing makeup effectively or gently.
A Better, All Natural Makeup Remover
The most effective, safest, and gentlest makeup removers are natural oils like jojoba, coconut, or even olive oil. Oils work by dissolving makeup, dirt, and excess sebum without stripping the skin.
Key Benefits:
Effective: Dissolves even stubborn waterproof makeup.
Gentle: Reduces harsh rubbing and tugging, especially around the delicate eye area.
Moisturizing: Leaves skin feeling soft, not stripped.
Preservative-Free: Pure oils don't contain water, eliminating the need for strong preservatives found in wipes. (Coconut oil, my personal favorite, even has natural antimicrobial properties thanks to lauric acid).
Eye-Safe: No stinging!
How I Remove Makeup:
Warm a quarter-sized amount of oil (ensure it's one your skin likes!) between fingertips
Gently massage over your face, eyes, and neck
Wipe away thoroughly with a warm, wet washcloth
Follow up with your regular face cleanser
What Happens Next? The Bigger Picture
Neutrogena, a beauty behemoth under Kenvue (which spun off from Johnson & Johnson), will likely address the contamination source. But will they reformulate away from questionable ingredients entirely? This recall, caused by bacteria known to resist common preservatives, highlights issues beyond just contamination. Still, a full reformulation is unlikely based on this recall alone.
This moment highlights a crucial point that cosmetic recalls often aren't what consumers think.
Understanding U.S. Cosmetic Recalls
The reality is when cosmetics are recalled in the U.S., it’s not exactly a regulatory measure. Here are a few important facts to know about recalls:
Voluntary vs. Mandatory: Until late 2022/early 2023 with the passage of MoCRA (Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act), the FDA lacked the authority to force cosmetic recalls. Brands recalled products voluntarily. Neutrogena's parent company, Kenvue, initiated this current recall voluntarily after internal testing.
MoCRA's Impact: MoCRA does grant the FDA mandatory recall authority if a product poses serious health risks and the company refuses to recall it voluntarily. However, this is a relatively new power, and as of late 2025, reports suggest the FDA hasn't yet formally exercised this mandatory authority for cosmetics, often working with companies for voluntary recalls first.
The WEN Haircare Example: This pre-MoCRA situation showed the regulatory flaw. Despite thousands of complaints about hair loss, the products weren't recalled by the company or mandated off shelves by the FDA (though a class-action lawsuit occurred).
Recalls: Patching vs. Solving
I've seen 2 other recalls play out differently:
1. The "Patch" Recall (Recalling Lots, Not Fixing Formulas): Remember the recalls for aerosol sunscreens (like Banana Boat) and dry shampoos (like Pantene, Suave) due to benzene contamination? Benzene, a carcinogen, likely came from the propellants (i.e. butane, propane). Brands voluntarily recalled specific contaminated lots but often continued using the same propellant systems in future products, essentially patching the immediate problem without addressing the potential systemic risk.
2. The "Good Faith" Recall (Recalling & Reformulating): Contrast that with smaller brands. For example, Suntegrity recalled certain shades of its Impeccable Skin tinted sunscreen due to microbial concerns. They pulled the products, then reformulated with an improved preservative system before relaunching. This difficult, costly step signals a commitment to fixing the root cause for consumer safety.
The Takeaway
When you hear about a cosmetic recall, know that it's usually voluntary. The recall doesn't automatically mean a product's formula is being fixed, only that a specific batch had an issue (like contamination or mislabeling). It’s worth investigating why the recall happened and how the company responded if it’s a product that you use.
In Neutrogena's case, this bacterial recall is just one more compelling reason to ditch the wipes and embrace a safer, more effective cleansing method like using natural oils.
I’d love to hear from you. What are your go-to makeup removers? Have you already made the switch from wipes?
If you found this breakdown helpful, consider sharing it with someone who might still be using those wipes.
