WASHINGTON — Following government testing that revealed slightly increased levels of a cancer-linked chemical, U.S. health authorities are requesting retailers to remove a limited quantity of acne creams from store shelves.
The Food and Drug Administration announced that several lots of six benzoyl peroxide-containing products are being recalled. These include Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser, Proactiv Skin Smoothing Exfoliator, and La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment. The complete list, along with lot numbers, was published online on Tuesday.
The FDA emphasized that the risk to consumers from these products is minimal.
“Even with decades of daily product use, the likelihood of developing cancer due to benzene exposure in these products remains very low,” the agency stated.
All products contain benzene, a chemical found in crude oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke. Extended exposure to high concentrations can lead to leukemia and other cancers.
This week’s recall announcements are directed at stores selling the affected products. FDA officials stated that consumers do not need to take any specific actions.
The FDA identified the six products after evaluating 95 acne treatment products. Private laboratory reports indicating excessive benzene levels in several acne treatments prompted the agency’s review.
In recent years, numerous other products, including hand sanitizers, aerosols, and sunscreens, have been recalled due to benzene levels.