L’Oréal recalls popular La Roche-Posay acne treatment across the United States after trace amounts of cancer-causing benzene are discovered, but FDA testing suggests the actual health risk may be minimal.
Key Takeaways
- L’Oréal is recalling all lots of its La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo acne treatment in the US due to potential benzene contamination.
- FDA testing found that over 90% of benzoyl peroxide acne products had undetectable or extremely low levels of benzene.
- The risk of cancer from benzene exposure in these products is considered very low according to FDA assessment.
- Several other popular acne products from Proactiv, Walgreens, and SLMD are also being voluntarily recalled at the retail level.
- L’Oréal has been developing an updated formulation since early 2024 that will replace the recalled version.
FDA Testing Reveals Limited Contamination Issue
The Food and Drug Administration recently conducted extensive testing on 95 acne products containing benzoyl peroxide following concerns about possible benzene contamination. The results showed that the vast majority of products tested—over 90%—had either undetectable or extremely low levels of benzene. This comprehensive testing was initiated after independent laboratory Valisure raised an alert about benzene in several benzoyl peroxide-based products approximately a year ago. The FDA emphasized that their testing used validated methods that produced more accurate results than some third-party findings.
While most products were found to be safe, the FDA’s investigation did identify a limited number of products with elevated benzene levels. These products are now being voluntarily recalled at the retail level, meaning stores are removing them from shelves. Importantly, the agency has stated that the actual risk to consumers is considered minimal, noting that “the risk of cancer from benzene exposure in these products is considered very low.” This assessment should provide some reassurance to those who may have used these products recently.
L’Oréal’s Swift Response to Contamination
L’Oréal’s decision to recall all lots of its Effaclar Duo acne cream represents a significant move for the cosmetics giant. The product, marketed under the company’s La Roche-Posay brand, is a popular dual-action acne treatment containing benzoyl peroxide. According to company statements, trace amounts of benzene were discovered in one specific lot of Effaclar Duo, prompting the company to take the precautionary measure of recalling all lots across the United States in consultation with FDA authorities.
“FDA is committed to ensuring drugs Americans use are safe and effective and will continue its efforts to monitor the issue of benzene in drugs and proactively take actions when quality issues arise.” – Source
This recall is not happening in isolation. Other popular acne products being recalled include Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser, Proactiv Emergency Blemish Relief Cream, Proactiv Skin Smoothing Exfoliator, SLMD Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion, Walgreens Tinted Acne Treatment Cream, and Zapzyt Acne Treatment Gel. The FDA has clarified that these recalls are voluntary and conducted at the retail level rather than requiring consumers to return products, though consumers may wish to discontinue use out of caution.
New Formulation Coming Soon
Anticipating potential concerns about benzene contamination, L’Oréal has been developing an updated formulation of Effaclar Duo since early 2024. This proactive approach means that consumers should see a benzene-free version on shelves relatively soon. The company’s swift action to both recall potentially contaminated products and develop new formulations demonstrates a commitment to consumer safety that may help maintain trust in the brand among its customer base despite this setback.
“FDA continues to underscore and remind manufacturers, distributors, repackagers and importers that they are responsible for the safety and quality of their products.” – Source
The concern about benzene in personal care products extends beyond just acne treatments. Over the past four years, Valisure has identified benzene contamination in various consumer products including sunscreens, antiperspirants, dry shampoos, and hand sanitizers. These findings have led to several high-profile recalls across the industry, highlighting the increasing vigilance among both consumers and regulators regarding potential carcinogen exposure in everyday products. The FDA plans to publish full testing results in peer-reviewed journals to provide complete transparency.
Sources:
- Limited number of voluntary recalls initiated after FDA testing of acne products for benzene; findings show a small number of products with elevated levels of benzene contamination
- L’Oréal Halts US Sales of Acne Treatment Amid Benzene Concerns
