La Roche-Posay And Other Brands Recalled Due To Potential Cancer-Causing Chemical

Several popular acne treatment products have been voluntarily recalled due to potential contamination with benzene, a substance classified as a known carcinogen.

The recall affects acne creams from well-known retailers such as Walgreens, La Roche-Posay, and Proactiv.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a recall notice on March 11th, 2025, following findings that six products, out of the 95 tested, contained elevated levels of benzene.

The affected products include Walgreens Acne Control Cleanser, Proactiv Skin Smoothing Exfoliator, SLMD Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion, and La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment.

Despite these findings, the FDA reported that 90% of the tested products showed either undetectable or extremely low levels of benzene.

The agency issued the recall due to “possible benzene contamination” in these items.

In response, La Roche-Posay reassured its customers with a statement from the company: “At La Roche-Posay, product safety is our highest priority. While our Effaclar Duo Acne Spot Treatment has a longstanding history of safe and effective use, recent testing revealed minimal traces of benzene. Although these trace levels do not pose a safety risk, we are committed to upholding the highest quality standards. Therefore, we have proactively decided to remove the limited remaining units of the current formula of Effaclar Duo from retailers.”

The company added that it is working on a new formula, which is expected to launch soon. Benzene exposure is associated with severe health risks, such as headaches, dizziness, and long-term issues like leukemia and other blood disorders.

However, the FDA has reassured the public, stating, “Even with daily use of these products for decades, the risk of a person developing cancer because of exposure to benzene found in these products is very low,” helping to ease concerns over the situation.

Consumers are advised to check their cabinets for expired products, though there is no immediate action required for these specific products as they have not been linked to an immediate health threat.

Retailers have been instructed to remove the affected products from store shelves and online marketplaces, but consumers can continue using products with valid expiration dates.

The potential source of contamination may be linked to benzoyl peroxide, a common ingredient in acne treatments. Under certain conditions, such as excessive heat (around 70°C), benzoyl peroxide can degrade and produce benzene. Benzene is not only present in cosmetics but is also found in gasoline, cigarette smoke, and industrial emissions.

Many skincare users are understandably concerned about these developments, especially given the popularity of products like La Roche-Posay's Effaclar Duo, which has gained a strong following thanks to endorsements from dermatologists and influencers.

Authorities will continue monitoring the situation and will keep consumers informed about any new risks or necessary precautions.