Sunscreens Recalled Due to Tracings of Carcinogenic Chemical

Five Sunscreens Recalled Due to Tracings of Benzene

Several sunscreen aerosol sprays were recalled due to samples containing traces of the carcinogenic chemical, Benzene. 

A voluntary recall was issued because samples of these products contained low levels of Benzene, a flammable chemical usually found in gasoline or in factories that could cause cancer.

What is Benzene?

According to Neutrogena, Benzene could cause cancer depending on the level and amount of exposure.

The American Cancer Society states that Benzene is a liquid used for creating plastics and rubbers. The chemical is also found in some types of gasoline and evaporates while interacting with air. 

The American Cancer Society also states that Benzene causes short-term problems with the nervous system. It also causes long-term problems with red and white blood cells.

Symptoms to Look For:

• Fatigue 
• Fever 
• Unintentional Weight loss
• Bone pain
• Nosebleeds 
• Night Sweats

Johnson and Johnson claimed that while there isn’t evidence of Benzene causing adverse health problems from daily exposure to Benzene, out of “abundance of caution.”

The company is launching an investigation to locate the cause of the tracings of Benzene because it is not an ingredient in their products.

Although these products are being recalled, the use of sunscreen is still encouraged to prevent melanoma and skin cancer.