Health

Several acne products recalled over possible benzene contamination

Skincare products used to treat acne have been recalled due to a cancer risk associated with elevated levels of benzene. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced this week that several products containing benzoyl peroxide, a common acne treatment ingredient, were found to have higher than acceptable levels of benzene.

The recalled products include La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment with lot number MYX46W, Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser with lot number 23 09328, Proactiv Emergency Blemish Relief Cream Benzoyl Peroxide 5% with lot numbers V3305A and V3304A, Proactiv Skin Smoothing Exfoliator with lot number V4204A, SLMD Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion with lot number 2430600, and Walgreens Tinted Acne Treatment Cream with lot number 4970743. Additionally, the manufacturer of Zapzyt Acne Treatment Gel has voluntarily recalled the product due to elevated benzene levels found in testing.

Benzene is a chemical commonly used in industrial products such as chemicals, dyes, detergents, and plastics. The FDA explained that while benzoyl peroxide itself is safe to use in acne products, prolonged exposure to benzene can have harmful effects on health, including a decreased formation of blood cells and an increased risk of cancers like leukemia and other blood disorders.

The FDA conducted independent testing of benzoyl peroxide products after third-party results raised concerns about benzene contamination. The agency found that 90% of the products tested had either undetectable levels or extremely low levels of benzene, reassuring consumers about the safety of most acne treatments containing benzoyl peroxide.

The FDA emphasized that the recalls were initiated at the retail level, meaning that retailers have been instructed to remove the products from shelves and online marketplaces. Consumers are not specifically instructed to take action regarding products they already possess, as the risk of developing cancer from exposure to benzene in these products is very low even with long-term daily use.

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It is crucial for consumers to stay informed about product recalls and to follow any guidance provided by regulatory agencies like the FDA to ensure their safety and well-being. If you have any of the recalled products, it is advisable to discontinue use and contact the manufacturer or retailer for further instructions.

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