FDA Update as Beauty Products Recalled for Benzene: See Full List

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall for retailers on multiple skin-care products due to the presence of benzene, a chemical known to cause serious health risks, including cancer. The recall primarily affects over-the-counter acne treatment products containing benzoyl peroxide. Retailers are instructed to remove products from store shelves and online marketplaces. Consumers have not been instructed to take action regarding products in their possession at the time of publication. Newsweek previously reported on the recall of L'Oreal products, one of which is also involved in this recall.

Why It Matters

Benzene is a known carcinogen that has been linked to various forms of cancer, including leukemia and other blood disorders. Exposure to benzene can occur through inhalation, skin absorption or ingestion.

But, per the FDA, "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."

What To Know

The FDA's recall covers several benzoyl peroxide-based acne products sold by major retailers and online distributors. While benzene is not an intentional ingredient in these products, it can form as a byproduct of the manufacturing process. Products being recalled for benzene contamination is nothing new. Hand sanitizers and aerosol sprays, like antiperspirants and sunscreens, have been previously recalled by the FDA for the same reason.

Which Products Were Recalled? Full List

According to the FDA's official recall notice, the following products have been pulled from shelves: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment by L'Oreal
Expiration Date: April 2025
Lot Number(s): MYX46W Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser
Expiration Date: September 2025
Lot Number(s): 23 09328 Proactiv+ Emergency Blemish Relief Cream Benzoyl Peroxide 5%
Expiration Date: October 2025
Lot Number(s): V3305A; V3304A Proactiv Skin Smoothing Exfoliator
Expiration Date: July 2025
Lot Number(s): V4204A SLMD Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion
Expiration Date: March 2025
Lot Number(s): 2430600 Walgreens Tinted Acne Treatment Cream
Expiration Date: March 2026
Lot Number(s): 49707430 The listed companies agreed to take action to recall the products due to elevated levels of benzene. The manufacturer of benzoyl peroxide product Zapzyt Acne Treatment Gel was also recalled due to elevated levels of benzene.

Why Was the Recall Issued?

The FDA began an investigation into these benzoyl peroxide products after a third party, who was not named by the FDA, submitted testing to the agency that raised concerns about elevated levels of benzene. The FDA tested 95 acne treatment products containing benzoyl peroxide. Only six were found to have elevated levels of benzene. The recalls are being conducted only at the retail store level. Sellers should remove these products from shelves. The FDA has not issued guidance to consumers related to the recall, but the FDA does advise consumers to toss out expired products. The FDA will communicate new information regarding benzene in drugs as it becomes available. Consumers are encouraged to stay updated by checking the FDA's official recall page regularly.