HQ Team
October 10, 2024: A recent study has raised concerns about the safety of topical benzoyl peroxide (BPO) products used for treating acne and rosacea. Researchers tested 111 products from major U.S. retailers and found that a significant portion contained unacceptably high levels of benzene—a known carcinogen—under normal storage conditions.
Key findings
Topical acne creams containing benzoyl peroxide can turn carcinogenic if left sitting for long on shelves under room temperatures, under elevated temperatures and when exposed to UV rays. Benzene formation is accelerated under these environments, researchers reported in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. Brands tested containing benzoyl peroxide included products from Clearasil, Clean & Clear, Neutrogena, Proactiv, Up & Up and store-brand equivalents.
The study revealed that 34% of the tested products exceeded the FDA’s limit of 2 parts per million (PPM) for benzene. Some brands, such as Proactiv, contained up to 18 times the allowable limit.
“Our research demonstrates that BPO products can generate benzene at typical room and store shelf temperatures, while cold storage significantly reduces this formation,” said researcher Dr. Christopher Bunick, an associate professor of dermatology with the Yale University School of Medicine in New Haven, Conn.
Co-investigator Dr. Christopher G. Bunick from Yale University suggests that refrigeration of BPO products throughout the supply chain could significantly reduce benzene exposure.
Implications for Consumers
The findings indicate that consumers may be unknowingly exposing themselves to harmful levels of benzene through everyday skincare products. Benzoyl peroxide is commonly used in various formulations, including creams, gels, and cleansers, which are often applied over extended periods.
Dr. David Light, lead investigator and co-founder of Valisure, LLC, emphasized the public health risk posed by these products: “Our research demonstrates that these widely used products can potentially contain or generate concerningly high levels of benzene.”
Dermatology experts have expressed their concerns regarding benzene in skin care products and have welcomed the study as it highlights the issue. Also, they believe that higher scrutiny is needed for personal care products containing formaldehyde and phthalates.
Dermatologists recommend that BPO products should be stored in cool environments to limit benzene formation. Also, people should be mindful of UV exposure when using these products outside.