A study by Valisure, a testing company, found that skincare products containing benzoyl peroxide (a popular skincare ingredient favored by beauty brands, including Clearasil and Clinique) can generate high levels of benzene, a cancer-causing chemical, when exposed to heat. This could happen if you leave them in a hot car or a steamy bathroom. Benzoyl peroxide is a common ingredient in over-the-counter acne medications.
WHAT IS BENZENE?
Benzene is a dangerous chemical classified as a carcinogen (cancer-causing agent) alongside asbestos and lead. Based on their findings, Valisure petitioned the FDA to investigate these products further and potentially remove them from the market.
HEALTH RISKS OF BENZENE IN SKINCARE
Long-term exposure to even low levels of benzene has been linked to cancer in humans. Some researchers believe any amount of benzene exposure carries a potential cancer risk. The American Cancer Society cites the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) which links benzene exposure to various leukemias, lymphomas, and multiple myeloma. The FDA currently allows minimal amounts of benzene in medications (less than 2 parts per million) only in unavoidable situations.
There is limited research on the specific link between skincare product benzene contamination and cancer. However, recent studies suggest even low levels of ambient benzene exposure can increase the risk of death, heart disease, and various cancers. These risks are mainly associated with long-term use, with immediate health effects being uncommon.
STORING AND USING BENZOYL PEROXIDE PRODUCTS SAFELY
We’ve known for over a century that benzoyl peroxide can break down into benzene, with heat accelerating this process. Valisure’s tests found that storing a popular acne product at 158°F (hot car temperature) for 17 hours resulted in benzene gas levels 1,270 times higher than the EPA’s safe long-term inhalation threshold.
Another test at 104°F (hot bathroom temperature) showed benzene levels exceeding the EPA’s threshold fourfold. Thankfully, the study found no such effect in acne treatments without benzoyl peroxide (salicylic acid or adapalene-based products).
RECOMMENDATIONS
Dr. Christopher Bunick, a dermatologist, advises discarding any benzoyl peroxide acne products stored in hot cars or bathrooms. Currently, there’s no proven way to completely prevent benzoyl peroxide breakdown, but colder temperatures can slow the process. Dr. Bunick suggests storing benzoyl peroxide products in the refrigerator as the best solution for those who wish to continue using them.
Source: Style Rave
