Health Canada has announced a recall for a shampoo sold at Sephora and salons nationwide because of a “microbial hazard,” indicating the product may be contaminated with bacteria that could potentially pose a health risk.
Health Canada states that the recalled shampoo may contain Plurabacter gergoviae, a type of bacteria that “poses minimal medical risk to healthy individuals” but could be harmful to those with weakened immune systems. The agency also cautions that individuals with specific health conditions may face a higher risk of infection if they use the affected product.
The consumer recall affects the entire lineup of amika’s Mirrorball High Shine + Protect Antioxidant Shampoo. This includes all sizes and lots purchased in 2023 or 2024, specifically:
- Mirrorball Shampoo 275 mL (UPC code GTIN 810905032637)
- Mirrorball Shampoo 1 L (UPC code GTIN 810905035836
- Mirrorball Shampoo 500 mL (UPC code GTIN 840117808744)
- Mirrorball Shampoo + Conditioner 20 mL Duo (UPC code GTIN 840117808713)
- Mirrorball Shampoo 60 mL (UPC code GTIN 840117809260)
As of January 27, 2025, amika received 48 reports in Canada of a foul odor and two reports of irritation or allergic reactions linked to the shampoo. However, the company stated that “no serious health events” have been reported.
The recall was triggered after quality control issues were found at a third-party manufacturing site, and amika is voluntarily removing the product from shelves “as a precaution.”
Although only the shampoo is being recalled, the company recognizes that many customers may have bought it as part of a set with the Mirrorball conditioner and is offering refunds for both products in those cases.
Sephora has removed the recalled shampoo from its website, but other products in the Mirrorball line, including the conditioner, are still available for purchase.
Health Canada states that the affected shampoo was sold in Canada between May 2023 and November 2024, with roughly 95,000 units sold.
If you have an affected product, amika advises you to stop using it immediately and return it to the store for a full refund. For online purchases, you can submit a refund request form with your shampoo bottle’s photo and details.
Amika is reformulating the shampoo and expects the updated version to be available in stores by April 2025, once it has been tested and produced.