Johnson & Johnson Has Recalled Five Different Aerosol Sunscreens Due to Benzene Contamination
Johnson & Johnson announced that they are recalling five of their sunscreen products "out of an abundance of caution" after finding that they contain low levels of benzene in some of the samples, which is considered a cancer-causing substance, Reuters reports. The voluntary recall includes Neutrogena Beach Defense aerosol sunscreen, Neutrogena Cool Dry Sport aerosol sunscreen, Neutrogena Invisible Daily defense aerosol sunscreen, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer aerosol sunscreen, and Aveeno Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen.
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Benzene is specifically considered as a human carcinogen, which is a chemical that could lead to cancer. This occurs depending on the amount of exposure to benzene. While this exposure could be hazardous, Johnson & Johnson ensured that the products wouldn't have a harmful on its consumers. "Daily exposure to benzene in these aerosol sunscreen products at the levels detected in our testing would not be expected to cause adverse health consequences," the company said.
The company did note that benzene is not an ingredient in their sunscreen products. However, the chemical was detected in limited samples of the Neutrogena and Aveeno brands, and Johnson & Johnson is researching how benzene got into them in the first place.
Anyone with these recalled products should dispose of them promptly. Consumers can contact Johnson & Johnson's care center by calling 1-800-458-1673 any time of day with questions or refund requests. Brand users should also contact their physician or health care provider with any concerns or complications after using any potentially contaminated sunscreens.
