Consumers are advised to check their skincare products as several well-known acne treatments have been recalled due to potential contamination with benzene, a known carcinogen. On March 11, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a recall alert involving popular brands such as La Roche-Posay, Walgreens, Proactiv, and SLMD Skincare.
According to the FDA, testing revealed some acne products containing benzoyl peroxide may have elevated levels of benzene, leading to the recall of six specific products out of 95 tested. The firms involved voluntarily opted to recall these products to maintain consumer safety. It’s notable, though, as the agency reported 90% of the tested products contained undetectable or extremely low levels of benzene.
The products being recalled include the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment, Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser, Proactiv Emergency Blemish Relief Cream Benzoyl Peroxide 5%, Proactiv Skin Smoothing Exfoliator, SLMD Skincare’s Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion, and Walgreens Tinted Acne Treatment Cream. Zapzyt, another acne treatment brand, has also issued recalls for its Acne Treatment Gel based on similar testing results.
A spokesperson for La Roche-Posay stated, "At La Roche-Posay, product safety is our highest priority. While our Effaclar Duo Acne Spot Treatment has a longstanding history of safe and effective use, recent testing revealed minimal traces of benzene. Although these trace levels do not pose a safety risk, we are committed to upholding the highest quality standards. Therefore, we have proactively decided to remove the limited remaining units of the current formula of Effaclar Duo from retailers." The company is currently developing a new and improved formula, which is expected to be released soon.
Benzene exposure can lead to severe health risks including headaches, dizziness, and even long-term issues like leukemia and other blood disorders. The FDA has reassured consumers by stating, "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." This statement aims to alleviate fears surrounding the issue.
While individuals are advised to remove expired products from their cabinets, the FDA made it clear there is no immediate risk requiring consumers to take any action on these specific products. Retailers are guided to remove them from store shelves and online marketplaces, but consumers need not dispose of products if they still bear valid expiration dates.
The origins of the contamination may stem from benzoyl peroxide, which, under certain conditions such as excessive heat (around 70 degrees Celsius), can degrade and form benzene. This chemical is found not only in cosmetics but is also present in gasoline, smoke from cigarettes, and emissions from industrial processes.
Previously, Valisure, an independent lab based in Connecticut, raised alarms back in 2024, identifying benzene levels up to 800 times above federal concentration limits among various skincare products. Brands including CeraVe and Clearasil were also implicated during earlier recalls.
Yet, this is not the first recall due to benzene exposure. Similar voluntary recalls occurred recently involving Unilever’s dry shampoos and other beauty products, highlighting the prevalence of this issue within the beauty and skincare industry.
Skincare enthusiasts are naturally concerned about these developments, especially as many have relied on these products amid striving for clearer skin. Through effective marketing and endorsements, particularly from dermatologists and influencers, products like La Roche-Posay's Effaclar Duo have gained significant traction over the years.
Some consumers took to social media expressing their disappointment over the recall, as many had found success with these products. "I put this on overnight on my spots and blemishes and then wake up the next morning with the spot barely visible!" commented one satisfied customer, highlighting the product's effectiveness before the recall.
Industry experts stress the importance of vigilance and constant regulation to assure consumer safety amid such recalls. Parents, teens, and young adults, who commonly use these products, are encouraged to stay informed about product safety announcements and to heed any recalls from reputable brands.
Overall, as the situation develops, both the FDA and the affected companies are working closely to minimize health risks to consumers and maintain transparency throughout the process. The commitment to quality and safety remains at the forefront of the industry as major brands like La Roche-Posay and Proactiv prepare to deliver continued assurance through improved formulations of their products.
Authorities will continue to monitor the situation, ensuring audiences are made aware of potential risks and precautions necessary. Consumers are encouraged to report any adverse reactions or concerns related to the products through the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program.