Six popular acne treatments from name brands like La Roche-Posay, Proactive, and Walgreens have been recalled for having elevated levels of benzene, a cancer-causing chemical.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tested 95 products containing benzoyl peroxide, a common ingredient in acne treatments that could form benzene as a byproduct.
Some of the recalled acne products are approaching their expiration dates. If you use any of these products below, the FDA recommends checking the date and throwing away products that have expired:
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment (Lot number MYX46W, expiration date April 2025)
- Proactiv Emergency Blemish Relief Cream Benzoyl Peroxide 5% (Lot numbers V3305A and V3304A, expiration date October 2025)
- Proactiv Skin Smoothing Exfoliator (Lot number V4204A, expiration date July 2025)
- Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser (Lot number 23 09328, expiration date September 2025)
- Walgreens Tinted Acne Treatment Cream (Lot number 49707430, expiration date March 2026)
- SLMD Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion (Lot number 2430600, expiration date March 2025)
According to the FDA, the maker of another OTC acne product, Zapzyt Acne Treatment Gel, has also issued a voluntary recall due to high levels of benzene found during testing.
What to Do If You Use One of the Recalled Acne Products
If the recalled acne products are part of your daily skincare routine, throw them out or take them back to the store for a refund.
The FDA said that “even with daily use of these products for decades, the risk of a person developing cancer because of exposure to benzene found in these products is very low.”
In recent years, concerns about the potential exposure to the carcinogen have prompted the FDA and manufacturers to issue recalls.
Many OTC acne treatments, including the recalled products, contain benzoyl peroxide. When benzoyl peroxide is exposed to heat or sunlight, it can break down into benzene. However, studies from last year have found that benzoyl peroxide can degrade into benzene even at room temperature.
While benzene is a degraded byproduct of benzoyl peroxide, it’s a naturally occurring chemical found in the environment and cigarette smoke. Benzene is also used to manufacture everyday products like detergents, drugs, and pesticides.
What This Means For You
If you use any of the recalled acne products, check the lot number and expiration date. The FDA recommends discarding expired products. You can also return the product to the store or contact the manufacturer for further guidance.
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Recall of Popular Acne Treatments: What You Need to Know
Recent testing by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has revealed that several well-known acne treatment products, including those from La Roche-Posay, Proactiv, and Walgreens, have been recalled due to the presence of elevated levels of benzene, a chemical linked to cancer risk.
Details on the Recall
The FDA conducted tests on a total of 95 acne products containing benzoyl peroxide, a common ingredient in such treatments known to potentially degrade into benzene under certain conditions.
Affected Products
The following products have been identified in the recall:
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment (Lot number MYX46W; expiration date: April 2025)
- Proactiv Emergency Blemish Relief Cream (5% Benzoyl Peroxide; Lot numbers: V3305A and V3304A; expiration date: October 2025)
- Proactiv Skin Smoothing Exfoliator (Lot number: V4204A; expiration date: July 2025)
- Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser (Lot number: 23 09328; expiration date: September 2025)
- Walgreens Tinted Acne Treatment Cream (Lot number: 49707430; expiration date: March 2026)
- SLMD Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion (Lot number: 2430600; expiration date: March 2025)
Additionally, Zapzyt Acne Treatment Gel has also been recalled voluntarily due to similar concerns regarding benzene levels.
What Should You Do if You Have These Products?
If you regularly use any of the products listed above, the FDA advises that you should discontinue use immediately. You can either dispose of these products or return them to the point of purchase for a refund. While the FDA states that the probability of developing cancer from long-term exposure to these products is very low, it is still prudent to adhere to the recall guidelines.
Understanding Benzene Exposure
Benzene is a chemical that, although formed as a byproduct of the breakdown of benzoyl peroxide, is commonly found in the environment and in products such as detergents and pesticides. Research indicates that even at room temperature, benzoyl peroxide can degrade into benzene, raising concerns over its safety in skincare products. The FDA’s ongoing investigations and recalls reflect increasing vigilance regarding consumer safety.
Conclusion
It is essential to stay informed about the products you use, especially in your skincare regimen. Verify the lot numbers and expiration dates of products you have on hand and consider following the FDA’s recommendations regarding disposal or returns. For more information on benzene and its effects, consult trusted health resources or speak with a healthcare professional.
For further guidance, you may visit the FDA website for updates on recalls and health advisories.
