Benzene Contamination in Acne Products Raises Cancer Concerns

An independent lab, Valisure, has reported that high levels of the cancer-causing chemical benzene can form in acne treatment products containing benzoyl peroxide, potentially exceeding FDA concentration limits when exposed to high temperatures. The lab's tests showed that some products could generate over 800 times the FDA limit for benzene. Valisure has sent a citizen petition to the FDA urging recalls and suspension of sales for products containing benzoyl peroxide, while the FDA stated it will respond directly to the petitioner and continue to provide updates to the public regarding benzene in drug products. This discovery raises concerns about the safety of benzoyl peroxide products and the need for urgent action to address the potential cancer risk.