New Research Reveals Benzene Contamination in Benzoyl Peroxide: Important Information for Consumers

Recent research published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (JID) reveals concerning findings on the presence of benzene, a known carcinogen, found in benzoyl peroxide (BPO) products often used to treat acne. These findings suggest that BPO products may carry health risks due to benzene contamination—even when stored at room temperature.

The study tested various BPO products from major skincare brands purchased across six states (California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, New York, and Texas). Valisure LLC, an independent testing laboratory, found that 34% of these products contained benzene levels exceeding the FDA’s 2 ppm limit. Benzene contamination was especially pronounced in products exposed to elevated temperatures, revealing that heat accelerates benzene formation in BPO products.

This research raises important questions about the safety of benzoyl peroxide for common skin issues like acne, folliculitis, and rosacea. As more evidence comes to light, it’s crucial for consumers to stay informed and make well-informed decisions about their skincare products.

If you are currently using any products containing benzoyl peroxide, DermUtopia recommends discontinuing them at this time.

Alternative Acne Treatments May Include:

• Tretinoin 
• Dapsone 
• Clindamycin Gel 
• Chemical Peels
• Oral medications such as Spironolactone or Accutane
• & More 

If you would like to schedule an acne appointment to discuss alternative treatments, call or text (703) 229-2544.

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For more information, refer to the following articles:

1. “Additional Study Confirms Reports of Benzene Presence Formation in Benzoyl Peroxide Products at Room Temperature.” Dermatology Times, 7 Oct. 2024, www.dermatologytimes.com/view/breaking-news-additional-study-confirms-reports-of-benzene-presence-formation-in-benzoyl-peroxide-products-at-room-temperature?ekey=RUtJRDpENjczQzdGNC0xNTlFLTQ5NEEtQTVBOS01MkUwRkNEMTkwMzA=&utm_campaign=emailname&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9GtqcdeG7ghr1MsCKQP24aCrgsSbaFcX-87SkgensGoTgzkMaZRT6SlPsoNbcFmkYwCuOupS4pP2mE1bFlMkPYa2fTkQ&_hsmi=327952365&utm_source=hs&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1LbKpv1QQNS5pe6RELyLmRYFHsdev2SuoF0uRyoId6zgzWq5_BPqbqM4_aem_StJFxm5hFf4SKv7vQmod6g
2. “Benzene Found in Various Acne Products; Valisure Files Petition with FDA to Recall Treatments.” Dermatology Times, 6 Mar. 2024, www.dermatologytimes.com/view/breaking-news-benzene-found-in-various-acne-products-valisure-files-petition-with-fda-to-recall-treatments