A shocking new analysis has revealed that numerous widely-used acne treatments, including fan favorites like Proactiv and Clearasil, contain dangerously high levels of benzene, a known carcinogen. This revelation increases the pressure on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to take immediate action on these products, heavily relied upon by millions of American teenagers.

Researchers from the New Haven-based Valisure laboratory, along with experts from Yale and Long Island universities, tested over 100 benzoyl peroxide acne products available in major retailers across six states. Alarmingly, they found that approximately one-third of these products were contaminated with significant levels of benzene. Proactiv was identified as one of the worst offenders, containing an astonishing 18 times the safe limit of benzene as established for drugs in the U.S.

The findings, published on October 7 in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, follow an earlier investigation that faced skepticism over its methodology. Critics argued that the initial study's use of high-temperature conditions affected the results. However, the latest study accounted for different conditions, maintaining the products at room temperature and offering peer-reviewed validation to support its claims.

The testing disclosed that other renowned brands, including some products from CVS and Clean & Clear, also presented concerning levels of contamination. Surprisingly, while most of the products tested did exceed the recommended benzene limits, about 70 products—including popular selections from Neutrogena—showed safe levels when stored correctly without exposure to increased temperatures.

However, the study also warned that the risk might escalate when these products are exposed to ultraviolet light, particularly in sunny conditions. This means individuals applying these creams prior to sun exposure might be unwittingly raising their cancer risk.

Despite the mounting evidence, companies have reassured consumers of their products' safety. A representative from CVS Health committed to upholding product safety standards, while Reckitt Benckiser, the manufacturer of Clearasil, expressed confidence in their product's safety. Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, which acquired Proactiv's maker, Taro Pharmaceutical Industries, has not responded to inquiries about their testing protocols for benzene.

The FDA had previously advised drug manufacturers in 2021 to test specific products for benzene, particularly those formulated with hydrocarbons like benzoyl peroxide. Still, it remains unclear if the brands involved have conducted these tests or are aware of the contamination levels in their products.

Experts like Dr. Christopher Bunick, a co-author of the study and associate professor of dermatology at Yale University, believe this alarming situation will lead to increased vigilance among manufacturers. "They have a responsibility to the consumer to ensure their products are safe," he stated ominously.

As public health officials and consumers await further actions from regulatory agencies, this study serves as a wake-up call that more stringent safety evaluations and manufacturing practices are urgently needed to protect the health of users relying on these popular acne treatments.