In 2025, the FDA recalled several popular benzoyl peroxide acne products because independent tests found elevated levels of benzene, a cancer-causing chemical, in specific batches. Benzoyl peroxide, a common ingredient in acne creams and cleansers, can break down over time into benzene, especially when exposed to heat or stored improperly, like in a bathroom or car.
The problem came to light after a third-party lab raised concerns, prompting the FDA to test 95 benzoyl peroxide products. More than 90 percent had no detectable benzene or very low levels, but six products from brands like La Roche-Posay, Proactiv, Walgreens, and SLMD showed levels up to 12 times above the FDA’s emergency limit. These recalls were voluntary, targeting only certain lot numbers to protect users.
For example, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment with lot MYX46W, expiring in April 2025, was pulled after tests confirmed high benzene. Proactiv Emergency Blemish Relief Cream in lots V3305A and V3304A, set to expire in October 2025, faced the same issue. Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser lot 23 09328 and others like SLMD Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion lot 2430600 were also affected.
Benzene is a known human carcinogen linked to leukemia and blood disorders with long-term exposure. Scientists have understood since 1936 that benzoyl peroxide decomposes into it under certain conditions. The FDA’s action focused on safety without banning benzoyl peroxide entirely, as most products tested safe. Affected items vanished from store shelves, and companies offered alternatives without the ingredient.
Consumers were urged to check lot numbers and expiration dates on their products. The recalls highlighted the need for proper storage and ongoing testing in skincare.
Sources
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01fxmOuxLZs
https://www.aol.com/popular-acne-products-recalled-due-153929010.html
https://www.druganddevicelawblog.com/category/fda
https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=950edb4e-fbba-41e3-9ec5-973806e555e7&version=21
https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/dermatology-times-2025-year-in-review-acne
https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk/eps/do/en/pharmaceutical_trade/safety_alerts_and_medical_recalls/medicine_recalls.html
