Several acne treatment products, including those from La Roche-Posay, have been recalled due to the detection of benzene, a chemical linked to cancer. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) initiated testing of 95 acne products containing benzoyl peroxide and found that six products had elevated benzene levels. As a result, certain products have been voluntarily recalled at the retail level.
Recalled Products
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment
- Lot Number: MYX46W
- Expiration Date: April 2025
- UPC: 883140004235
- Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser
- Lot Number: 23 09328
- Expiration Date: September 2025
- UPC: 311917010934
- Walgreens Tinted Acne Treatment Cream
- Lot Number: 49707430
- Expiration Date: March 2026
- UPC: 311917010941
- Proactiv Emergency Blemish Relief Cream Benzoyl Peroxide 5%
- Lot Numbers: V3305A, V3304A
- Expiration Date: October 2025
- UPC: 309975000000
- Proactiv Skin Smoothing Exfoliator
- Lot Number: V4204A
- Expiration Date: July 2025
- UPC: 309975000000
- SLMD Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion
- Lot Number: 2430600
- Expiration Date: March 2025
- UPC: 810017700000
These products were sold at various retailers, including CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Target, and online platforms like Amazon.
Health Advisory
While the detected benzene levels are low, and the FDA states that the risk of developing cancer from these products is minimal, benzene exposure at higher levels is associated with leukemia and other cancers.
Recommended Actions
- Consumers: If you possess any of the recalled products, discontinue their use. Although the recall is at the retail level, you may contact the manufacturer for further information or disposal instructions.
- Retailers: Remove the affected products from shelves and online listings to prevent further sales.
For more detailed information, refer to the FDA’s official announcement.