DermaRite Industries has expanded its previously announced hand soap recall to include a wide range of additional products such as hand sanitizer, deodorant, body wash, and lotions. This expanded recall is being carried out with support from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), following concerns that several products may be contaminated with Burkholderia cepacia, a group of bacteria that can cause serious infections in vulnerable individuals.
If you’ve used or stock any of DermaRite’s hygiene or skincare products, here’s everything you need to know.
Contamination
At the heart of the recall is Burkholderia cepacia, a type of bacteria often found in soil and water. According to the CDC, while it generally poses low risk to healthy individuals, it can be dangerous for those with weakened immune systems or chronic lung conditions like cystic fibrosis. Infections can range from mild to severe and may lead to respiratory illness or even sepsis in serious cases.
Using contaminated products on broken or irritated skin increases the risk of infection, especially for immunocompromised users.
Products
The recall now includes dozens of DermaRite products used in both clinical and personal settings. These range from no-rinse cleansers and antifungal creams to hand sanitizers and body lotions. Below are some of the key products involved in the expanded recall:
| Product Name | Description |
|---|---|
| 4-N-1 | No-rinse wash cream for cracked skin |
| Clean-N-Free | Rinse-free body wash and perineal cleanser |
| DermaCerin | Moisturizing cream for dry, chapped skin |
| DemaDaily | Soothing lotion for sensitive skin |
| DermaFungal | Antifungal cream for jock itch and ringworm |
| DermaKleen | Antiseptic lotion soap with Vitamin E |
| DemaKlenz | Wound cleanser, odor-reducing, no rinse needed |
| DermaMed | Treats poison ivy and similar irritations |
| DermaRain | Mild, pH-balanced body wash and shampoo |
| DermaSarra | External analgesic for minor skin irritations |
| DermaSyn | Hydrogel wound dressing |
| DermaVantage | Moisturizing lotion |
| DermaVera | Full-body cleanser with shea butter |
| Gel Rite | Instant gel hand sanitizer with Vitamin E |
| Hand E Foam | Foaming hand sanitizer with Vitamin E |
| KleenFoam | Antimicrobial foam soap with aloe vera |
| Lantiseptic | Skin protectant for cuts and scrapes |
| LubriSilk | Lotion for dry, rough skin |
| PeriFresh | Spray cleanser for incontinence care |
| PeriGiene | Antiseptic perineal cleanser |
| PeriGuard | Rash prevention and relief from wetness |
| Renew Hair & Body Wash | Vitamin-rich body and hair cleanser |
| Renew Dimethicone | Treats and prevents diaper rash |
| Renew Full Body Wash | For hands, body, hair, and perineal care |
| Renew Periprotect | Skin protectant for diaper rash |
| Renew Skin Repair | Cream for chapped or cracked skin |
| San-E-Foam | Foaming hand sanitizer with Vitamin E |
| TotalBath | Vitamin E enriched body wash and shampoo |
| TotalFoam | Mild body wash for all-over use |
| UltraSure | Antiperspirant and deodorant |
| WhirlBath | Gentle cleanser for whirlpool or tub use |
DermaRite’s website and recall notice include specific identification details such as product numbers, lot codes, and expiration dates.
Symptoms
Symptoms from exposure can range from minor irritation to more serious respiratory infections. People with compromised immune systems, especially those with lung conditions, should be particularly cautious. Common symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Skin irritation or infection at the application site
The bacteria’s resistance to antibiotics also makes treatment more complicated if an infection develops.
Action
DermaRite has instructed all distributors and customers to immediately inspect and dispose of any affected inventory following their facility’s procedures. Consumers who may have used a recalled product and feel unwell should contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
For any questions or concerns, you can:
- Call Sedgwick at 888-943-5190 (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST)
- Email: [email protected]
Risk
The good news is that for most healthy individuals, the risk remains low. However, facilities like hospitals and nursing homes, which use these products with at-risk populations, must take immediate action to prevent any chance of infection.
Make sure to check your product labels and lot numbers, and if you’re unsure, reach out to DermaRite or your local healthcare provider for further guidance.
FAQs
Why were DermaRite products recalled?
Due to possible contamination with Burkholderia cepacia bacteria.
What symptoms can the bacteria cause?
Symptoms include fatigue, fever, and respiratory issues.
Are all DermaRite products affected?
No, only certain products listed in the recall are affected.
How should recalled items be handled?
Destroy affected products as per facility procedures.
Who should I contact about the recall?
Call 888-943-5190 or email [email protected].
