How to Safely Switch Acne Treatments After a Recall
When the FDA announced recalls of popular acne products due to benzene contamination, many people faced an important question: what should I do now? If you were using one of the recalled products, switching to a safer alternative doesn’t have to be complicated. Understanding the right steps can help you maintain clear skin while protecting your health.
What Happened with the Recalled Products
The FDA tested 95 acne treatment products containing benzoyl peroxide and found six with elevated levels of benzene. Benzene is classified as a human carcinogen, meaning long-term exposure can increase the risk of leukemia and other blood disorders. The recalled products included popular brands like Proactiv, Walgreens, La Roche-Posay, and SLMD. The good news is that more than 90 percent of the products the FDA tested had undetectable or extremely low levels of benzene, so safe alternatives do exist.
Stop Using the Recalled Product Immediately
If you have one of the recalled products, stop using it right away. Check the lot numbers and expiration dates against the FDA’s list. Even if you have only used a small amount, switching now prevents any further exposure to the contaminated product. Don’t feel alarmed if you used it for a short time, but do take action to switch.
Give Your Skin Time to Adjust
Before jumping to a new acne treatment, give your skin a few days to recover. Your skin may feel slightly irritated or dry after stopping the recalled product, especially if you were using it regularly. During this transition period, use a gentle cleanser and a basic moisturizer. This waiting period helps your skin return to its normal state and makes it easier to see how a new treatment will actually work.
Choose a Safer Alternative
Look for acne products that have been tested and verified as safe. The FDA’s testing showed that most benzoyl peroxide products on the market are safe to use. When selecting a new product, you have several options. You can choose another benzoyl peroxide product from a trusted brand that wasn’t on the recall list, or you can explore other acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid. If you’re unsure which product to pick, ask a dermatologist for a recommendation based on your skin type and acne severity.
Start Slowly with Your New Treatment
When you begin using a new acne product, introduce it gradually. Start by using it once or twice a week, then increase frequency as your skin adjusts. This slow approach helps you avoid irritation and allows you to see how your skin responds. If you experience redness, dryness, or peeling, you can reduce how often you use the product or switch to a gentler option.
Watch for Skin Reactions
Pay attention to how your skin responds to the new treatment. Some mild dryness or slight peeling is normal when starting acne products, but severe irritation, burning, or rashes are signs to stop and consult a dermatologist. Keep track of any changes in your skin over the first two to three weeks of using the new product.
Consider Professional Guidance
If you’re struggling to find the right replacement product or if your acne is severe, talk to a dermatologist. A skin care professional can recommend treatments tailored to your specific needs and skin type. Research shows that patients trust dermatologists more than social media influencers for acne treatment advice, and for good reason. A dermatologist can also help you understand whether your acne requires prescription-strength treatments or if over-the-counter options will work.
Be Patient with Results
Remember that acne treatments take time to work. Most acne products require four to six weeks of consistent use before you see significant improvement. Don’t switch products too quickly just because you don’t see results in the first week or two. Give your new treatment a fair chance while monitoring your skin carefully.
Keep Your Skin Clean and Healthy
While using your new acne treatment, maintain good skin hygiene. Wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser, avoid touching your face throughout the day, and use non-comedogenic moisturizers and sunscreen. These basic habits support your acne treatment and help prevent new breakouts.
Sources
https://www.aol.com/popular-acne-products-recalled-due-153929010.html
https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/dermatology-times-2025-year-in-review-acne
