FDA Recalls Six Acne Products After Testing Reveals Benzene Contamination Above Safety Limits
- The FDA announced voluntary recalls of six popular acne products containing benzoyl peroxide after testing revealed elevated benzene levels above the conditional limit of two parts per million.
- Independent testing by Valisure laboratory found that benzoyl peroxide breaks down into the carcinogen benzene over time, with some products containing levels as high as 35 ppm.
- Of 95 acne products tested by the FDA, more than 90 percent had undetectable or extremely low benzene levels, but six products required recall due to elevated contamination.
- Researchers emphasize that benzene exposure from multiple sources creates cumulative cancer risk, particularly concerning for products applied directly to skin.