FDA Recalls Acne Products Over Benzene Contamination: What You Need to Know

If you regularly use over-the-counter acne treatments, you may have seen recent news about the FDA recalling certain benzoyl peroxide products due to benzene contamination. Benzene is a known carcinogen, meaning that long-term exposure has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. While the FDA has emphasized that the risk from using these products is low, the recall has raised concerns about the safety of acne treatments and how contamination like this happens.

At Boketto Lab, we believe in educating consumers about their skincare choices, so let’s break down exactly what this recall means, why it happened, and what you should look for when selecting acne products.

Why Were These Acne Products Recalled?

The FDA conducted a study testing 95 different acne products that contain benzoyl peroxide, one of the most widely used ingredients for treating breakouts. More than 90% of these products showed either no detectable benzene or extremely low levels, but a small number were found to contain elevated levels of benzene. This discovery led to voluntary recalls by several major brands, including La Roche-Posay, Walgreens, Proactiv, and SLMD.

A recall does not necessarily mean that using these products will cause cancer, but it does mean that the amount of benzene detected exceeded the FDA’s acceptable limits for contamination. These levels are measured in parts per million (ppm), and the FDA has set strict limits on how much benzene can be present in consumer products. While many of the recalled acne treatments contained benzene levels slightly above these limits, long-term exposure over months or years is what raises concern.

Benzene is not an intended ingredient in these products, which means the contamination likely happened during the manufacturing process. It can be introduced through solvents used to dissolve active ingredients, or it may result from chemical breakdown over time. This is particularly concerning for products containing benzoyl peroxide, which is known to be an unstable compound if not properly formulated and stored.

Which Products Were Recalled?

The following acne products were recalled due to benzene contamination:

1. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment

• Lot Number: MYX46W

• Expiration Date: April 2025

2. Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser

• Lot Number: 23 09328

• Expiration Date: September 2025

3. Proactiv Emergency Blemish Relief Cream Benzoyl Peroxide 5%

• Lot Numbers: V3305A, V3304A

• Expiration Date: October 2025

4. Proactiv Skin Smoothing Exfoliator

• Lot Number: V4204A

• Expiration Date: July 2025

5. SLMD Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion

• Lot Number: 2430600

• Expiration Date: March 2025

6. Walgreens Tinted Acne Treatment Cream

• Lot Number: 49707430

• Expiration Date: March 2026

7. Zapzyt Acne Treatment Gel

• This was also recalled due to high benzene levels, based on the manufacturer’s independent testing.

If you use any of these products, stop using them immediately and check with the manufacturer for disposal instructions or refunds.

How Did Benzene End Up in Acne Treatments?

Benzene is not intentionally added to acne treatments, but contamination can happen in several ways. One of the most common sources is the use of certain solvents in manufacturing. Solvents are substances that help dissolve ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and ensure they are evenly distributed in a formula. If these solvents contain benzene as an impurity, it can end up in the final product.

Another potential cause is chemical degradation over time. Benzoyl peroxide is an unstable ingredient that can break down when exposed to heat, light, or improper storage conditions. In some cases, this breakdown process can generate benzene as a byproduct. This means that even a product that initially tested as safe could develop contamination over time if it is stored improperly, such as in high heat or direct sunlight.

Aerosol and pump products are also at higher risk for contamination because the

propellants and packaging materials used in these formulations can interact with benzoyl peroxide. This is why many of the recalled products were found in gel, lotion, and spray forms rather than solid acne treatments like bar soaps or powder formulations.

What Should You Do If You’ve Used a Recalled Product?

1. Stop Using the Product Immediately. Even though the risk is low, it’s best to discontinue use.

2. Dispose of the Product Safely. Check with the brand or retailer about return and disposal instructions. Do not throw it in the trash where others could be exposed.

3. Monitor Your Health. If you’ve used the product for a long time and have concerns, talk to your doctor.

How to Choose Safer Acne Treatments Moving Forward

This recall is a wake-up call for both consumers and skincare brands, emphasizing the importance of formulation stability, proper storage, and quality control. If you’re looking for safer acne treatments, start by choosing products that are water-based or gel-based, as they are less likely to experience chemical breakdown over time.

Researching brands that offer third-party testing can also help ensure product safety. Companies that conduct independent lab testing for contaminants like benzene are more likely to maintain high-quality standards. Avoiding products with high alcohol content or aerosol sprays may also reduce the risk of exposure, as these formulations have been linked to higher contamination levels in past recalls.

Finally, it’s always a good idea to stay updated on FDA recalls and safety warnings. The FDA regularly updates its recall list, and checking it periodically can help you avoid potential risks in your skincare routine. You can find up-to-date recall information at FDA.gov.

Staying Informed and Making Safe Choices

While the recent acne product recalls may seem alarming, they serve as a reminder of how important it is to be aware of what goes into our skincare. The presence of benzene in any personal care product is unacceptable, but by choosing brands that prioritize transparency and rigorous testing, you can minimize your exposure to potentially harmful contaminants.

At Boketto Lab, we believe that skincare should be both effective and safe. If you’re looking for acne treatments that provide results without unnecessary risks, we are here to guide you toward clean, professional-grade skincare solutions.

Your skin deserves the best without the hidden dangers. If you have any questions about this recall or want personalized recommendations for acne treatments, feel free to reach out.