La Roche-Posay recall: Benzene concerns prompt withdrawal of Effaclar Duo and other acne treatments.
The FDA’s latest tests found high benzene levels in some benzoyl peroxide treatments, prompting a shop to issue a recall. Retailers must remove the affected items, but customers don’t need to take immediate action.
Which Products Are Affected?
The FDA tested 95 acne treatments and found that six products contained higher-than-expected levels of benzene:
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment (Lot: MYX46W, Exp: April 2025)
- Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser (Lot: 23 09328, Exp: Sept 2025)
- Proactiv Emergency Blemish Relief Cream (Lots: V3305A, V3304A, Exp: Oct 2025)
- Proactiv Skin Smoothing Exfoliator (Lot: V4204A, Exp: July 2025)
- SLMD Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion (Lot: 2430600, Exp: March 2025)
- Walgreens Tinted Acne Treatment Cream (Lot: 49707430, Exp: March 2026)
Additionally, Zapzyt Acne Treatment Gel was also recalled following independent testing by its manufacturer.
Are Consumers at Risk?
The FDA emphasizes that there is extremely low risk of developing cancer from these drugs, even after chronic use. On the other hand, expired products should be discarded.
Benzoene exposure can alter blood cell production, weaken immunity, and, in severe cases, result in cancer.
Benzene poisoning symptoms include:
- Unusual heartbeat
- Dizziness and headaches
- unconsciousness or vomiting (in extreme situations)
Although benzene may be found in cigarette smoke, gasoline, and crude oil, its use in skincare products poses a risk to public health.
Next Steps for Consumers
- Check product labels for the designated lot numbers.
- Stop using the expired acne treatments on the recall list.
- The FDA plans to release more information in the coming months, so keep checking back.
The benzene recall serves as a reminder to regularly evaluate the safety of popular goods’ constituents.
Source: NPR
