Major Recall: La Roche-Posay and Other Acne Products Linked to Cancer-Causing Chemical

A significant recall has been issued for several popular acne treatment products, including La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar Duo, due to potential contamination with benzene, a known carcinogen. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall after testing revealed elevated levels of benzene in these products, prompting manufacturers to act swiftly to protect consumers.

Key Takeaways

• Affected Brands: La Roche-Posay, Proactiv, Walgreens, and SLMD.
• Contaminant: Benzene, a chemical linked to cancer.
• FDA Findings: Elevated levels found in certain products, but overall risk remains low.
• Consumer Guidance: No immediate action required for consumers, but check expiration dates.

Overview of The Recall

The FDA’s recall notice, issued on March 11, 2025, affects six acne treatment products that contain benzoyl peroxide. This ingredient is commonly used for its effectiveness in treating acne but can degrade into benzene under certain conditions, such as exposure to high temperatures or UV light.

The recall was initiated after third-party testing raised concerns about benzene contamination in these products. While over 90% of the tested items showed low or undetectable levels of benzene, a limited number contained elevated amounts, leading to voluntary recalls by the manufacturers.

List of Recalled Products

The following products have been recalled due to benzene contamination:

Health Implications

Benzene is a colorless liquid that is classified as a human carcinogen by several health organizations, including the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Long-term exposure to benzene can lead to serious health issues, including leukemia and other blood disorders. However, the FDA has stated that even with daily use of the recalled products for decades, the risk of developing cancer from the benzene levels found is very low.

Manufacturer Responses

In response to the recall, La Roche-Posay, owned by L’Oreal, has stated that while trace levels of benzene were detected, they do not pose a safety risk. The company has proactively decided to remove the affected units from retailers and is transitioning to a new formula of the Effaclar Duo product, which is expected to be available soon.

Proactiv’s manufacturer, Alchemee, has also confirmed the recall and is offering refunds or replacements for affected products. Walgreens has committed to complying with the recall and ensuring the safety of its customers.

Consumer Guidance

While the FDA’s recall is primarily directed at retailers, consumers are advised to check their products for the listed lot numbers and expiration dates. If you have purchased any of the recalled items, you may not need to take immediate action, but it is wise to dispose of any expired products. For those who bought directly from the manufacturers, contacting customer service for refunds or replacements is recommended.

The FDA continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about the safety of the products they use and to report any adverse effects to the appropriate authorities.

Sources

• Which La Roche-Posay Products Are Affected?, The Cut.
• La Roche-Posay, Proactiv face care products recalled – NBC Chicago, NBC 5 Chicago.
• L’Oreal Recalls Popular La Roche-Posay Acne Treatment Over Cancer-Causing Chemical, Health.com.
• FDA recalls Proactiv, L’Oreal La Roche-Posay, other acne products over cancer-causing ingredient, Class Action Lawsuits.
• La Roche-Posay, Proactiv, Walgreens skin care products voluntarily recalled, ABC News.