L’Oreal S.A. has voluntarily recalled its Effaclar Duo acne treatment sold under the La Roche-Posay brand in the U.S. due to concerns that it may contain benzene, a known carcinogen.
The recall affects the Effaclar Duo Acne Spot Treatment, which contains benzoyl peroxide. Under certain conditions, such as high temperatures or UV exposure, benzoyl peroxide can degrade into benzene, posing potential health risks.
The recall follows a 2024 study by independent lab Vailsure, which highlighted that many acne products containing benzoyl peroxide were found to have benzene levels exceeding the FDA’s safety limits. The report urged the FDA to take action to remove these products from the market.
In a statement, a La Roche-Posay spokesperson confirmed that trace amounts of benzene were found in a single lot of Effaclar Duo, although these levels were deemed not to pose an immediate health risk. Despite this, the company, in coordination with the FDA, decided to withdraw the affected units from retail shelves as a precautionary measure. No other La Roche-Posay products have been recalled.
L’Oreal’s decision to recall Eff toac recalllar Eff Duoaclar Duo is is also also part of a transition to a new formula for the product, which has been under development since 2024 and is expected to be available soon.
Benzene is a highly volatile liquid chemical, classified as a human carcinogen by major health organizations, including the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Long-term exposure to benzene has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia and other blood cancers.
Consumers who have purchased the recalled product should discontinue use. Effaclar Duo is no longer available for purchase on La Roche-Posay’s website, and L’Oreal has removed remaining stock from retailers.
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