Cancer-causing chemical can form at ‘unacceptably high levels' in certain acne products, independent lab claims

High levels of benzene can form in acne treatment products containing benzoyl peroxide, according to an independent laboratory. The lab’s tests showed that some products could form more than 800 times the FDA concentration limit for benzene. When stored or handled at high temperatures, benzoyl peroxide acne treatments can generate high levels of benzene. This issue was not observed in acne treatment products containing salicyclic acid or adapalene. Benzene is a widely used chemical in the United States, and it can be used to make various products. A citizen petition has been sent to the FDA, urging them to recall products containing benzoyl peroxide. The FDA stated that data must be verified before making regulatory decisions. Last year, the FDA alerted drug manufacturers about the risk of benzene contamination in certain products. Some brands mentioned in the petition did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Valisure has previously sent similar petitions to the FDA regarding concerns about benzene.