Study Finds Benzene Risk in Acne Products, Recommends Refrigeration

Title: Study Finds Benzoyl Peroxide in Acne Products Can Degrade into Benzene, Prompting FDA Action

A recent study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology has revealed concerning findings about benzoyl peroxide in popular acne products. Researchers found that benzoyl peroxide can degrade into benzene, a known carcinogen, even at room temperature. This discovery has prompted sponsor Valisure Laboratories to file a petition with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) calling for action on benzene contamination in these products.

The study, which tested over 100 benzoyl peroxide acne products purchased from major retailers in six states, discovered high levels of benzene in several products. For example, Proactiv was found to contain 18 times the FDA’s allowable benzene level, while a CVS brand acne face wash had 13 times the permitted amount.

Lead researcher Christopher Bunick, MD, PhD, from Yale University School of Medicine, emphasized the importance of refrigerating benzoyl peroxide products to limit benzene exposure. The study also highlighted that there is no safe level of exposure to benzene, which can form when acne products are stored at room temperature, exposed to high heat, or subjected to UV light.

While the findings raise concerns about benzene exposure from acne and rosacea products, John Barbieri, MD, director of the Advanced Acne Therapeutics Clinic at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, noted that benzoyl peroxide is a foundational acne treatment without clear alternatives. He advised against overreaction, suggesting that the potential risks of benzene exposure from these products should be considered in the context of other daily exposures.

As the FDA reviews Valisure’s petition and further independent research is conducted, consumers are encouraged to stay informed about the study’s findings and consider refrigerating benzoyl peroxide products to minimize the risk of benzene exposure. In the meantime, caution is recommended with brands like Proactiv and CVS Health acne products, which were flagged as concerning in the study.

Overall, the study underscores the need for continued monitoring and assessment of benzene contamination in acne products to ensure consumer safety.

By Fran Kritz, Healthcare Reporter, Former Staff Writer for Forbes Magazine and U.S. News and World Report.