Tom Branna, Editorial Director05.29.21
An independent lab's analysis found benzene levels at “up to three times the conditionally restricted FDA concentration limit of 2 ppm" in 78 sunscreen formulations. Valisure LLC found benzene in OTC sunscreens it tested at levels above the recommended concentration in the US and is asking for a recall of contaminated products plus more limits for the carcinogen in sunscreen.
Brands found to have high levels of benzene include Neutrogena, Sun Bum and CVS Health.
"Benzene is not an ingredient in any of our personal care products and we are reviewing the findings presented in this petition," said Johnson & Johnson, the maker of Neutrogena, in a statement.
The analytical laboratory says its analysis of 294 batches of sunscreens from 69 different companies, it found “significant variability from batch to batch ... even within a single company.”
Yet, there is no established exposure limit regarding benzene in sunscreen or after-sun products. So along with requesting a recall of batches contaminated with benzene, the lab is also asking the FDA to create a "concentration limit" for drug products, including sunscreens and a "daily exposure limit."
FDA has not responded to that request.
Brands found to have high levels of benzene include Neutrogena, Sun Bum and CVS Health.
"Benzene is not an ingredient in any of our personal care products and we are reviewing the findings presented in this petition," said Johnson & Johnson, the maker of Neutrogena, in a statement.
The analytical laboratory says its analysis of 294 batches of sunscreens from 69 different companies, it found “significant variability from batch to batch ... even within a single company.”
Yet, there is no established exposure limit regarding benzene in sunscreen or after-sun products. So along with requesting a recall of batches contaminated with benzene, the lab is also asking the FDA to create a "concentration limit" for drug products, including sunscreens and a "daily exposure limit."
FDA has not responded to that request.