A new study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology on Monday, October 7 is reigniting concerns about the safety of benzoyl peroxide in acne-fighting skin-care products.
You’re probably no stranger to beonzyl peroxide; it’s a famed skin-care ingredient known for its acne-fighting properties. And this isn’t the first time research has raised red flags about its potential to degrade into benzene—a known carcinogen—when exposed to elevated temperatures and UV light. The latest research tested 111 over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide acne products and found that 34% had benzene levels that surpassed the FDA’s 2 ppm safety limit.
These findings mirror an earlier study published in March. As reported by Dermatology Times, the March study’s findings showed that benzene levels spiked “when the acne products were tested at higher temperatures that were designed to replicate how the products can break down over time.” The latest study confirms that both heat and UV exposure accelerate benzene formation—so where do we go from here?
Christopher Bunick, MD, PhD, associate professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine, Dermatology Times’ 2024 Winter Editor in Chief, and one of the study’s authors, explains: “If you’re going to continue to use benzoyl peroxide-containing products, then what I’m doing is asking patients to store their benzoyl peroxide-containing product in the refrigerator. I think it’s a very simple method to minimize the decomposition of the benzoyl peroxide and mitigate the levels of benzene.”
In NewBeauty’s previous reporting on the March findings, some dermatologists called for more data, while others advised proceeding with caution. Omaha, NE dermatologist Joel Schlessinger, MD, stressed that “even minimal amounts of benzene pose risks.” He added, “Given these findings, it’s clear that current guidelines may need revision to reflect emerging data and better safeguard public health.” Our advice is to stay cautious and informed as this ongoing investigation continues to unfold.
