Sunscreens being recalled by Johnson & Johnson

Johnson & Johnson announced a recall of five of their sunscreen products on Wednesday after some samples were discovered to have low quantities of Benzene. This chemical can cause cancer if exposed to it repeatedly. Aveeno Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen and four Neutrogena sunscreen versions: Beach Defense aerosol sunscreen, CoolDry Sport aerosol sunscreen, Invisible Daily Defense aerosol sunscreen, and UltraSheer aerosol sunscreen are among the items affected.

The recall affects all can sizes and sun protection factor (SPF) levels. The items were sold in stores around the country. According to tests conducted by online pharmacy and lab Valisure, Benzene was identified in dozens of popular sunscreens and after-sun products, CBS News reported last month. According to Valisure, Benzene, a known carcinogen, was placed in 78 of roughly 300 sprays and lotions tested, or around 27%, including Banana Boat and CVS items.

The healthcare behemoth is looking into how the chemical ended up in the items. According to David Light, the founder and CEO of Valisure is manufacturing contamination impacting specific batches.Light said in a statement, “Benzene is one of the most studied and concerning human carcinogens known to science. Its association with forming blood cancers in humans has been shown in numerous studies at trace levels of parts per million and below.

The presence of this known human carcinogen in products widely recommended for the prevention of skin cancer and that are regularly used by adults and children is very troubling.”According to the company, Johnson & Johnson is attempting to remove all lots of the five products off shop shelves. It advised users to immediately cease using the sunscreens and contact Johnson & Johnson Consumer Care Center at 1-800-458-1673 for a refund. Neutrogena and Aveeno each have websites with more information.