November 12, 2021 Recent testing by Valisure LLC, an independent testing facility, identified high levels of the known carcinogen benzene in 44 of 86 distinct products from 30 brands of spray deodorants and antiperspirants. This finding comes shortly after benzene was detected in several Neutrogena and Aveeno aerosol sunscreen products.
Although the source of benzene remains unknown, it may result from how a particular ingredient in the aerosol products was manufactured, sourced, or how the product moved through the supply chain. It is speculated that the benzene most likely arose through ingredients such as butane, isobutane, or propane – all of which serve as propellants in spray products.
Benzene is known to cause several types of cancer including leukemia and other blood cell cancers. Benzene is also linked to skin irritation and dermatitis which is of particular concern since these products are meant to be regularly applied to the skin during normal use.
Following testing, Valisure has called for a recall of all affected products and is requesting that the FDA set better-defined limits for benzene contamination in drug and cosmetic products.
Products tested include those from the following brands:
- Arrid
- Axe
- Azzaro
- Bath & Body Works
- Brut
- Calvin Klein
- Davidoff
- Degree
- Designer Imports
- Dove
- Duke Cannon
- Equate
- Gold Bond
- Guy Laroche
- Hollister
- Kenneth Cole
- Land of the Free
- Nautica
- Powder Stick
- Prince Matchabelli
- Right Guard
- Speed Stick
- Suave
- Summer’s Eve
- Soft & Dri
- Old Spice
- Victoria’s Secret