Makeup company L’Oréal has recently sparked health concerns by recalling its La Roche-Posay brand's Effaclar Duo Dual-Action Acne Treatment. This decision follows alarming findings about benzoyl peroxide, the active ingredient, potentially breaking down and forming benzene—a known carcinogen. The news has triggered wide discussions about safety standards within cosmetic products.
The recall emerged after Valisure, an independent testing laboratory based in Connecticut, published research highlighting how benzoyl peroxide can decompose at temperatures between 98°F and 120°F, producing benzene. Prolonged exposure to benzene is known to heighten risks for blood cancers and other serious blood disorders. According to Dr. Mona Foad, founder and board-certified dermatologist at MONA Dermatology, the environmental conditions under which these products are stored can lead to such dangerous outcomes. “Since benzene is a known carcinogen, it’s important to choose products from reputable brands and store them as directed to minimize any risk,” Dr. Foad emphasized.
The specific lot numbers affected by this recall include La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar Duo, with lot number MYX46W and expiration date of April 2025. Other recalled products include:
- Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser: Lot number 2309328, 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
Adding to the growing list, the company behind Zapzyt Acne Treatment Gel also announced its own recall after testing revealed elevated levels of benzene. Numerous retailers, including Walmart, Walgreens, Ulta, Amazon, and Target, are holding stock of these potentially harmful products.
Despite the recall, experts reassured consumers: not all benzoyl peroxide products are dangerous. Sabina Wizemann, director of the Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, explained the stringent safety and stability testing procedures products undergo. “Cosmetic products undergo stringent safety and stability testing to determine appropriate shelf life,” Wizemann noted. After testing 95 acne products, the FDA declared over 90% displayed undetectable or extremely low levels of benzene. The recall was prompted solely due to elevated benzene levels discovered within the six aforementioned products.
So what does this mean for consumers? “Unless you're using one of the recalled products above, you’re probably fine incorporating cosmetics containing benzoyl peroxide as long as you follow the directions and store them safely,” Dr. Foad advised. She suggested keeping these products stored away from heat and light, emphasizing the importance of adhering to expiration dates.
For those considering alternatives to benzoyl peroxide, Dr. Foad highlighted several other ingredients known for their acne-fighting properties. Salicylic acid is known for effectively combating acne and providing exfoliation. If consumers are prone to irritation or have sensitive skin, lactic, mandelic, or lactobionic acids may serve as gentler options. Azelaic acid has been found effective against acne, redness, and melasma, whereas sulfur offers antibacterial benefits without harshness. Niacinamide, which controls oil and reduces inflammation, is another mild choice.
With the abundance of beauty products on the market, consumers face challenges determining which brands are credible. According to Wizemann, brand reputation should be evaluated based on various factors such as history, ownership, recall history, safety, and ingredient transparency. Brands lacking official websites or sufficient contact information are considered red flags, as are poorly written labels filled with grammatical errors or overzealous marketing claims.
Looking back, the recent events surrounding L’Oréal’s recall serve as significant alerts for consumers about the safety of widely-used beauty products. With complete transparency and stringent testing procedures, it appears safe to use reputable brands as long as they are not part of the recall. Dr. Foad emphasizes, “Make sure to store products correctly and do not use them past their expiration dates.”
Considering the need for effective yet safe beauty solutions, consumers are encouraged to stay informed about the ingredients and storage conditions of their products. With heightened awareness, purchasing safer cosmetic products should become more common among consumers, promoting overall health without sacrificing beauty routines.