Sunscreens: Benzene Testing and Recalls

Earlier this year, Valisure, an independent lab, tested nearly 300 sunscreen samples and found that 78 contained detectible levels of benzene. Benzene is most commonly found in tobacco smoke and used as a chemical catalyst in the development of substances like plastic, rubber, detergents, pesticides, and dyes. As a byproduct of the manufacturing processes, and due to its carcinogenic nature, benzene is only acceptable per the FDA regulation at a concentration of 2 parts per million (ppm). Literature dating back more than 100 years details the cumulative effect of benzene on bone marrow suppression and increased risk for hematologic malignancies. While we may also be exposed to small concentrations of environmental benzene, there is no reliable data on its cutaneous absorption.

The results of Valisure’s investigation pinpointed a number of sunscreens (mostly sprays) and after-sun care products with benzene levels in the 5-6ppm range. View the list of sunscreens tested here: https://www.valisure.com/wp-content/uploads/Valisure-Citizen-Petition-on-Benzene-in-Sunscreen-and-After-sun-Care-Products-v9.7.pdf.

Following the release of this data, Johnson and Johnson voluntarily recalled their listed products and are investigating the source of contamination since benzene is not used in their manufacturing process. The most important take-away for dermatology providers is that benzene is not an ingredient used in sunscreen, but rather a contaminate or chemical used in the manufacturing process; and the level of exposure required to elicit bone marrow suppression is not well defined. Conversely, ultraviolet (UV) exposure is also a known carcinogen with significant cumulative adverse effects in terms of skin cancer risk, photoaging, and exacerbation of photosensitivity. We remain the best advocates for reassuring our patients that sunscreens are still safe and a very necessary part of their daily healthcare regimen.

Jennifer Conner, MPAS, PA-C has been a dermatology PA for over 15 years and practices at Dawes Fretzin Dermatology in Indianapolis. When not in clinic, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three children, and running