The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall of multiple over-the-counter acne treatments due to the presence of benzene, a chemical linked to cancer. Retailers have been instructed to remove the affected products from shelves and online marketplaces.
Benzene, identified in the recalled products, is associated with leukemia and other blood disorders, according to the National Cancer Institute. While not an intentional ingredient, benzene can form as a byproduct of the manufacturing process in benzoyl peroxide-based acne treatments.
The recall includes:
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment (L’Oréal)
- Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser
- Proactiv+ Emergency Blemish Relief Cream Benzoyl Peroxide 5%
- Proactiv Skin Smoothing Exfoliator
- SLMD Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion
- Walgreens Tinted Acne Treatment Cream
The FDA emphasized that the recall is at the retail level, meaning consumers are not specifically instructed to dispose of products they already own. The agency also noted that the risk of developing cancer from daily use of these products over decades remains low.
L’Oréal, one of the brands affected by the recall, previously faced a lawsuit in 2022 over claims that its chemical hair straightening products increased the risk of uterine cancer. The lawsuit, filed by attorney Ben Crump on behalf of a Missouri woman, alleged that endocrine-disrupting chemicals in the products contributed to her cancer diagnosis.
Concerns over benzene contamination have led to recalls in other personal care products in recent years, including sunscreens, deodorants, and dry shampoos. This latest recall underscores growing scrutiny over product safety and the long-term health risks of chemical exposure.
