A recent nationwide recall by DermaRite Industries, LLC has raised serious health concerns for many consumers, particularly those in healthcare settings. The company announced a voluntary, nationwide recall of several over-the-counter skincare, cleansing, and sanitizing products due to potential contamination with dangerous bacteria on the skin. If you or a loved one used a recalled DermaRite product and suffered a serious infection, you may be entitled to compensation. A DermaRite recall injury lawyer from our personal injury law firm can help you understand the recall and explain your legal rights.
In this Article
Do I Need a Lawyer for a DermaRite Recall Injury?
What Is the DermaRite Recall?
On August 8, 2025, DermaRite Industries announced a voluntary recall of specific lots of its skincare and cleansing products. The recall includes items like DermaKleen, DermaSarra, and KleenFoam—OTC external analgesics, OTC antimicrobial foam soaps, OTC antiseptic cleansers, and skin protectant moisturizing creams. The reason for this action is the possible contamination with Burkholderia cepacia (B. cepacia) complex, a group of bacteria that can cause serious health problems.
These products are widely used in hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare environments for handwashing to decrease bacteria. This places some of the most vulnerable populations at direct risk of exposure. The recall notice from the FDA highlights the significant danger this contamination poses.
The Dangers of B. Cepacia Contamination
Burkholderia cepacia complex is group of bacteria found in moist environments. While often harmless, it can be extremely dangerous for individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic lung diseases. This group of bacteria is resistant to many common antibiotics, making it difficult to treat. The risk of a severe, life-threatening infection is highest in healthcare settings among immunocompromised patients.
How Can B. Cepacia Cause Injury?
When using contaminated personal care products like OTC skin protectants, an infection can occur. The bacteria may enter the body through contact with broken skin (like cuts or rashes), by inhaling contaminated aerosols from foaming products, or through contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Once inside the body, B. cepacia can lead to severe and potentially fatal injuries. These include bloodstream infections (sepsis), pneumonia, septic shock (resulting in organ failure), and—in the most serious cases—wrongful death.
What Are the Symptoms of B. Cepacia Infections?
Symptoms of a B. cepacia infection can range from mild to severe. Mild cases may present as minor skin irritations or minor skin lesions where a product meant to renew skin repair was applied. However, severe symptoms can develop rapidly, especially in vulnerable individuals. These include high fever, coughing, and shortness of breath if the infection is in the lungs. A bloodstream infection may lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition marked by chills, confusion, and a sudden drop in blood pressure, requiring urgent medical care.
Who Is Most at Risk?
While anyone can be affected, certain groups are at a much higher risk of developing severe complications from B. cepacia exposure. These high-risk populations include:
Immunocompromised patients with conditions like cancer, HIV/AIDS, or those who have had organ transplants
Hospital and nursing home residents who reside in long-term care facilities where these products were frequently used
Physicians or healthcare providers who may have been exposed on the job and developed infections
Home healthcare patients receiving medical care at home with recalled DermaRite products
Holding the Manufacturer Accountable
Manufacturers have a legal duty to ensure their products are safe. When they fail to do so and cause harm, they can be held legally responsible under product liability laws.
If you or a loved one used a recalled DermaRite product and developed a serious infection, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. To build a strong case, it’s crucial to collect evidence, such as the original product container (especially with lot numbers), receipts, medical records documenting your infection and treatment, and any communication with healthcare providers about your symptoms.
How a DermaRite Injury Lawyer Can Help
Navigating a product liability lawsuit can be challenging, but an experienced lawyer can handle the process while you focus on recovery. They can gather evidence, consult experts, and build a case to prove the product designed to protect minor skin irritation caused your injury. You shouldn’t bear the cost of a company’s negligence. Compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, and more. If a recalled DermaRite product harmed you, contact a qualified injury lawyer to discuss your case.
A DermaRite recall injury lawyer from our personal injury law firm can help you understand the recall and explain your legal rights.
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