Cancer-causing benzene found in acne products: Independent lab

(NewsNation) — High levels of the cancer-causing chemical benzene have been detected in several acne products that exceed the federal recommended limit by over 800 times, according to an independent laboratory.

Valisure filed a petition with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration urging the agency to recall the products from brands including Estee Lauder’s Clinique, Clearasil, Target’s Up & Up, and Walmart’s Equate beauty line. The New Haven, Connecticut-based lab also seeks a formal investigation and updates to industry guidelines.

Benzene could form at “unacceptably high levels” in both prescription and over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide acne treatment products, Valisure said.

The carcinogen has already been found in several consumer products, including sunscreens, hand sanitizers and dry shampoo, leading to recalls of products made by companies including Procter & Gamble and Johnson & Johnson.

However, the products exhibited varying levels of benzene, which appeared to decrease over time, suggesting possible leakage from the packaging.

Long-term exposure to benzenes can impair body cell functions and reduce red blood cell production, potentially leading to blood cancers.

In a statement to Reuters, Reckitt, the manufacturer of Clearasil, said the findings “reflect unrealistic scenarios rather than real-world conditions,” adding all Clearasil products were safe “when used and stored as directed on their labels.”

Estee Lauder told Reuters that Clinique uses benzoyl peroxide in one product, which “is safe for use as intended.”

The FDA has not yet responded to Valisure’s petition.

Reuters contributed to this report.