THE WHAT?  Valisure LLC, an independent testing laboratory, has found high levels of benzene, a carcinogen, in acne treatments from brands like Proactiv, Target’s Up & Up, and Clinique. The laboratory has filed a petition with the FDA to recall these benzoyl peroxide-containing products for further investigation.

THE DETAILS In testing 66 benzoyl peroxide products, Valisure discovered benzene levels up to nine times higher than the FDA’s accepted limit, particularly in products exposed to high temperatures. Notably, Proactiv, Target, and Clinique products showed significantly high levels of benzene, leading to concerns about consumer safety and product integrity.

THE WHY?  This incident raises questions about the FDA’s oversight of the cosmetics industry and consumer awareness of potential risks in commonly used products. The findings by Valisure underscore the urgent need for more rigorous testing and regulatory frameworks to ensure the safety of skincare and cosmetic products.