Quick Read
- DermaRite Industries has expanded a recall affecting over 30 hygiene products.
- The recall is due to contamination with Burkholderia cepacia, a dangerous bacterium.
- Products were distributed across the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
- Affected individuals, especially immunocompromised people, are at risk of severe infections.
- Consumers are advised to stop using the products and consult healthcare providers if symptoms occur.
DermaRite Industries Expands Product Recall Over Bacterial Contamination
DermaRite Industries, a New Jersey-based manufacturer of medical and skin care products, has announced an expanded recall of more than 30 hygiene products due to potential contamination with Burkholderia cepacia, a bacterium known to cause severe and life-threatening infections. The recall, which began in July 2025, has now been extended to include a wide range of products, including hand soaps, shampoos, lotions, and hand sanitizers. The company has distributed these products across the United States, including Puerto Rico, raising significant public health concerns.
Why the Recall Was Expanded: A Response to Growing Concerns
The initial recall, announced on August 8, 2025, focused on a smaller selection of products, but subsequent testing revealed that additional items might also be contaminated. The company expanded the recall on August 27, 2025, and then again in September, citing the need to act transparently and responsibly to protect public health. According to a statement from DermaRite, the contamination involves Burkholderia cepacia, a bacterium that thrives in soil and water and can survive in various environments, including hygiene products.
The bacterium poses a significant risk, particularly to immunocompromised individuals and those with chronic lung conditions such as cystic fibrosis. Symptoms of infection can range from fever and fatigue to severe respiratory issues and, in extreme cases, life-threatening sepsis. Healthy individuals with minor skin lesions may develop localized infections, but the risk of systemic infection is considerably higher for vulnerable populations.
“Our actions reflect our dedication to acting quickly, transparently, and responsibly, so that we can maintain the highest standards of care,” DermaRite stated in a letter dated September 8, 2025. The company emphasized its commitment to restoring full product availability while ensuring the safety of its consumers.
Affected Products: Comprehensive List and Distribution
The recall now includes a wide range of products, such as:
- 3-N-1
- 4-N-1
- Clean-N-Free
- DermaCerin
- DermaDaily
- DermaFungal
- DermaKlenz
- DermaMed
- DermaRain
- DermaSyn
- DermaVantage
- DermaVera
- Gel Rite
- Hand E Foam
- Lantiseptic
- LubriSilk
- PeriFresh
- PeriGuard
- Renew Hair and Body Wash
- Renew Dimethicone
- Renew Full Body Wash & Shampoo
- Renew Periprotect
- Renew Skin Repair
- San-E-Foam
- TotalBath
- TotalFoam
- UltraSure
- WhirlBath
The company clarified that its wound care and nutritional products are not part of the recall and remain safe for use. Affected products have expiration dates ranging from July 2025 to August 2027. The full list of lot and reorder numbers is available on DermaRite’s website.
Health Implications and Safety Measures
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has highlighted the dangers posed by Burkholderia cepacia. The bacterium is resistant to many common antibiotics, making infections particularly challenging to treat. While healthy individuals may exhibit mild or no symptoms, those with compromised immune systems are at heightened risk of severe complications.
Consumers are urged to stop using the recalled products immediately and consult a healthcare provider if they experience symptoms such as fever, fatigue, or respiratory issues. DermaRite has advised its distributors and customers to examine their inventory and destroy affected products in accordance with facility protocols. The company has also encouraged consumers to report adverse reactions to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program.
Company Response and Public Communication
DermaRite has expressed regret over the situation, stating, “We recognize the impact this situation may have caused and sincerely regret any inconvenience.” The company has assured the public of its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care and has taken steps to notify its distributors and customers via email. A dedicated customer service line and email address have been set up to address inquiries and provide guidance on the recall process.
The recall has not yet been linked to any reported adverse reactions, but the company continues to monitor the situation closely. DermaRite’s swift action and transparent communication have been aimed at minimizing the risk to public health while addressing the concerns of affected consumers.
In summary, the expanded recall of DermaRite Industries’ products underscores the importance of stringent quality control measures in the manufacturing of hygiene products. While the company’s proactive approach is commendable, the incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with bacterial contamination in everyday items.