A recent investigation by Valisure, an independent laboratory, has discovered alarmingly high benzene levels in certain acne products.
Jacqueline Howard reports for CNN.
In short:
- Independent lab Valisure has found excessive benzene levels in benzoyl peroxide-containing acne treatments.
- High temperatures significantly increase the risk of benzene formation in these products, posing potential health risks.
- While benzoyl peroxide products are under scrutiny, similar products with salicylic acid or adapalene don't exhibit this issue.
Key quote:
“This discovery of benzoyl peroxide’s fundamental instability and formation of benzene is substantially different than Valisure’s previous findings of benzene in sunscreens, hand sanitizers and other consumer products."
— David Light, president of Valisure
Why this matters:
Acne treatments, designed for frequent, sometimes daily, application, can pose a risk if they contain unsafe levels of benzene. The skin's absorption of benzene can lead to systemic exposure, which, over time, may increase the risk of developing cancers and other health issues.
Researchers warn that benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene may disrupt people's hormone systems at levels deemed "safe" by feds.
