On March 18, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall of several popular acne treatment products due to elevated levels of the carcinogen benzene. This decision follows extensive testing of 95 products containing benzoyl peroxide, a common ingredient used for acne treatment, which can inadvertently yield benzene as a byproduct during the product’s formulation.
The FDA's investigation revealed that while more than 90% of the tested acne products exhibited low or undetectable levels of benzene, six specific products were identified with notably higher concentrations. The products affected include:
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment (lot number MYX46W, expiration date April 2025)
- Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser (lot number 23 09328, expiration date September 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)
- SLMD Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion (lot number 2430600, expiration date March 2025)
- Walgreens Tinted Acne Treatment Cream (lot number 49707430, expiration date March 2026)
The FDA clarified that the recalls are occurring at the retail level, meaning that stores are required to remove these products from their shelves and online marketplaces. Consumers who possess these products, however, are not being instructed to discard them unless they are expired. Notably, the agency emphasized that the risk of developing cancer from using these products, even for prolonged periods, is low.
The announcement came as manufacturers took proactive measures to recall specific products after the FDA's evaluations. Alongside the noted brands, Zapzyt Acne Treatment Gel, a separate acne treatment, was also voluntarily recalled by its manufacturer due to elevated levels of benzene discovered during testing.
Benzene, a chemical found naturally in crude oil, gasoline, and tobacco smoke, poses various health risks when humans are exposed to it, particularly over extended periods. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that significant exposure can lead to harmful health effects, including a compromised immune system and increased anemia risk. Furthermore, benzene exposure is linked to cancers such as leukemia. Symptoms stemming from benzene exposure may include irregular heartbeat, headaches, dizziness, and even unconsciousness in severe cases, depending on the duration and volume of exposure.
Dr. Christan Martone, a certified physician assistant at USF Health, explained that benzene formation is not an intentional additive in these products but rather a byproduct of benzoyl peroxide, specifically as it breaks down over time. He advised consumers to ensure proper storage of these products, as exposure to heat or sunlight may accelerate the breakdown process. "The breakdown of this ingredient can happen faster if the products are kept in the sun or at warmer temperatures," Martone noted.
Dr. Doug Ross, Chief Medical Officer at AdventHealth, reiterated the FDA's findings, assuring that the cancer risk from the implicated products remains very low. "You would have to use a large amount of these products for decades to increase the risk of cancer," he said, while also acknowledging the concerns surrounding benzene. Ross suggested that consumers engage in discussions with healthcare providers if they remain worried about their exposure to benzene from these products.
The FDA has also committed to releasing comprehensive testing results and methods in the coming months, aiming for publication in peer-reviewed journals to clarify any questions surrounding the benzene findings.
Overall, while benzene is a known carcinogen, the majority of products tested in the FDA's study posed no significant risk, allowing healthcare workers and dermatologists to assure patients of the safety of most acne treatments. Dr. Adam Friedman from George Washington University emphasized that the benzene presence in the recalls stems from the degradation of benzoyl peroxide rather than being an added contaminant. "We don’t know the full story, so for those who just want to avoid BPO products, that is fine, and they have other options," Friedman advised.
The American Academy of Dermatology has encouraged consumers to follow best practices regarding the handling and storage of such products, consulting dermatologists if they have concerns. Patients can also opt for alternative acne treatment options, such as topical retinoids or salicylic acid products, if they prefer to avoid benzoyl peroxide entirely.
The FDA's effective communication on this issue underscores the importance of transparent safety measures and consumer awareness regarding the products they use. Buyers are encouraged to check expiration dates regularly and dispose of old or improperly stored products as a precautionary measure. Moving forward, ongoing research into the benzene issue will continue to contribute to consumer safety and confidence in the cosmetic industry.
