Johnson & Johnson Recalling Neutrogena And Aveeno Sunscreens Due To Benzene Contamination
Johnson & Johnson is voluntarily recalling five Neutrogena and Aveeno aerosol sunscreen products after testing identified low levels of benzene in some samples. Consumers should stop using the affected products and follow the instructions below.
The recalled sunscreen products are aerosol sprays:
• Neutrogena Beach Defense aerosol sunscreen.
• Neutrogena Cool Dry Sport aerosol sunscreen.
• Neutrogena Invisible Dail defense aerosol sunscreen.
• Neutrogena Ultra Sheer aerosol sunscreen.
• Aveeno Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen.
The recalled products were packaged in aerosol cans and distributed nationwide. Consumers should stop using these specific products and appropriately discard them. Consumers may contact the Johnson & Johnson’s Consumer Care Center with questions or to request a refund by calling 1-800-458-1673.
Consumers should contact their physician or healthcare provider if they have any questions, concerns or have experienced any problems related to using these aerosol sunscreen products. Johnson & Johnson is also notifying distributors and retailers by letter and is arranging for returns of all recalled products.
More information is available at www.Neutrogena.com and www.Aveeno.com.
What Is Benzene?
Benzene is a human carcinogen, a substance that could potentially cause cancer depending on the level and extent of exposure. Benzene is ubiquitous in the environment. Humans around the world have daily exposures indoors and outdoors from multiple sources. Benzene can be absorbed, to varying degrees, by inhalation, through the skin, and orally. Based on exposure modeling and the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) framework, daily exposure to benzene in these aerosol sunscreen products at the levels detected would not be expected to cause adverse health consequences.
Out of an abundance of caution, Johnson & Johnson is recalling all lots of these specific aerosol sunscreen products. According to the manufacturer, benzene is not an ingredient in any of their sunscreen products. Johnson & Johnson says they are investigating the cause of this issue.
Sunscreen use is critical to public health. Melanoma incidences continue to increase worldwide, and the majority of cases are caused by excessive sun exposure. It is important that people everywhere continue to take appropriate sun protection measures, including the continued use of alternative sunscreen.
Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced may be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online, by regular mail or by fax. Download form or call 1- 800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.
