The brand appears to have received a national dermatology association's seal of acceptance—but here's why you may want to avoid applying this recalled face moisturizer.
Nearly 3,000 Containers of Face Moisturizer Recalled Nationwide
Published on Jan. 23, 2025
Editor’s note: This article was updated Friday, January 24 to include the fragrance variety in the third paragraph below, after a representative for the brand reached our team via email.
Oatmeal moisturizers just seem to say Wholesome, but several brands have surfaced with quality issues over the past year and been subject to product recalls.
In a January 22 announcement, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a face moisturizer recall advisory that’s reinforcing why it’s wise to be aware of what you buy.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream—Coconut Vanilla has been recalled for what the FDA cites as “CGMP Deviations,” which the administration defines as failure to meet the Current Good Manufacturing Practice standards. Further, the report explains: “product intended for quarantine was inadvertently distributed.” The distribution pattern is reported “Nationwide.”
It’s unclear why the product was supposed to be pulled into quarantine. At least one other recent recall on oatmeal moisturizer has been executed for reasons related to microbial or mold contamination. “This product was not intended for market sale,” the brand’s site states, adding that the recall applies to product sold exclusively through their site. “We are recalling the Ultra Repair Cream Coconut Vanilla that were sold only on FirstAidBeauty.com in the United States.” (Elsewhere, the brand’s site says, “You can also find our products at Sephora, Ulta, Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, Anthropologie, Ross, Macys, Ulta Beauty @ Target, Sephora @ Kohl’s and TJ Maxx and select Marshalls.” [sic])
The FDA says the face moisturizer recall applies to 2,756 jars of First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, colloidal oatmeal 0.5%, Coconut Vanilla. Other identifying details:
- Net Wt. 396.8 g (14 OZ)
- UPC: 8 15517 02955 6
- Lots:
- 24D44, Expiration 4/10/2026
- 24D45, Expiration 4/11/2026
- Distributed by: First Aid Beauty LTD, Newton, MA, 02458
The FDA says the face moisturizer recall was first initiated on December 23, 2024. This week, on January 21, the event was assigned the agency’s Class II risk level, which the FDA determines is “a situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
Via email Friday afternoon, January 24, via email the brand stated:
We voluntarily recalled a specific variant of our Ultra Repair Cream—Coconut Vanilla—sold exclusively on FirstAidBeauty.com. This was one particular variant. No other First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Creams are impacted.
We’ve already reached out to the few customers who purchased the Coconut Vanilla Ultra Repair Cream and sent replacements. We know that the word “recall” can feel unsettling, but we assure you that this product met quality standards.
We strive to ensure all consumers have the best possible experience with our products.
Research suggests the brand calls the Ultra Repair Cream one of their bestsellers. At least one product by First Aid Beauty holds the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance.
For some individuals, oatmeal can have anti-inflammatory, calming effects to the skin. This recall might not indicate you should avoid oatmeal moisturizers altogether; just be aware of where to find any personal care product’s identifying information if you learn of a recall. And, be mindful: Scented moisturizers can also cause facial irritation.
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