Simple has issued an urgent recall for several sizes of its Kind to Skin Micellar Cleansing Water after identifying a microbiological contamination risk. The affected batches may cause eye inflammation, and customers are urged to stop using them immediately.
The skincare brand, stocked across major UK stores and supermarkets, said the items present a “microbiological risk”. The products have been pulled from shelves, and a recall alert has been issued by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS).
Recalled products and batch codes
The recall covers Simple Kind to Skin Micellar Cleansing Water in 200ml, 400ml, and 730ml bottles. A recall alert was issued earlier this month for just one size of the cleanser; now more have been added.
- 200ml: Batch codes 610041, 611641, 615941
- 400ml: Batch codes 611141, 611341, 611441, 613341, 613441, 614541, 614741, 614841
- 730ml: Batch codes 613841, 613941, 611041, 616641, 616741
Batch codes can be found on the bottom of the bottle. The recall applies in the UK and the Republic of Ireland.
OPSS warning and consumer advice
OPSS issued a recall notice stating: “It has been identified that affected batches may be microbiologically contaminated, which may cause eye inflammation.” The affected batches do not meet the requirements of Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 (the ‘Cosmetics Regulation’).
OPSS added: “The product has been withdrawn from the market and recalled from end users by Unilever. Consumers in possession of an affected batch should stop using the product immediately.”
Customers are advised to check the Simple Kind to Skin Recall Notice or contact their place of purchase for instructions on returns, disposal, and refund or redress.
Simple's response and refund process
Simple said: “We are recalling these products because the safety of the people who buy and use our products is our top priority.” The company added: “Other Simple products are not affected by this issue. We understand that product recalls can be concerning, and we are sorry for any concern or inconvenience this may have caused.”
Customers can contact Simple's Consumer Careline by email on ukicare@unilever.com for further guidance and a refund, or call 0800 146 252 (UK) or 1800 604 060 (ROI). Proof of purchase is not needed, but a photograph of the product and the affected batch code is required.
Simple explained: “The recall has been initiated following testing which identified the possible presence of bacteria in some units (within specific batches), which has the potential to cause eye inflammation for some consumers.” The company added: “If you have any concerns about your health, we recommend seeking advice from a medical professional.”
