Yesterday, according to Bloomberg, L’Oréal SA has announced a recall of all lots of its Effaclar Duo acne treatment in the U.S. due to concerns over benzene contamination. The product, sold under the company’s La Roche-Posay brand, contains benzoyl peroxide, an ingredient that kills bacteria to treat acne. However, benzoyl peroxide can break down and form benzene, a known carcinogen linked to leukemia in high amounts, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The recall follows concerns raised by Valisure, an independent laboratory in Connecticut, which flagged benzene contamination in several benzoyl peroxide-based acne treatments over a year ago. The lab had urged the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to take action, though the agency has not yet commented on whether further recalls will be issued for similar products.
L’Oréal stated that trace levels of benzene were detected in one lot of Effaclar Duo. “Therefore, in close coordination with the FDA, we have proactively decided to remove the limited remaining units of the current formula of Effaclar Duo from retailers,” the company said in a statement. L’Oréal also confirmed that an improved formulation, developed since 2024, will soon be available.
The issue of benzene contamination extends beyond acne treatments. Valisure has previously detected high levels of benzene in personal-care products, including sunscreens, antiperspirants, dry shampoos, and hand sanitizers. Several of these products have been recalled following FDA evaluations.
