In recent weeks, (again) several popular acne treatment products have been voluntarily recalled due to concerns over benzene contamination, a known carcinogen. Thanks to this headline Report:

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted tests on 95 acne products containing benzoyl peroxide and found elevated benzene levels in six of them, leading to these recalls.

The affected products include: La Roche-Posay Effaclar, A couple of Walgreens Acne Brands, and Proactiv, SLMD brands. (detailed lists can be found all over the internet this week).

This article takes a deeper dive into these reports and the FDA actual findings.

Due to the new media storm, Brands such as La Roche-Posay, Proactiv, and Walgreens have taken precautionary measures to remove specific products from retail shelves.

The FDA’s own site confirmed that most skincare products contain extremely low levels of benzene, well within safe limits—especially when used before the expiration date. This means that properly tested products from reputable brands are safe for daily use. They also concluded that some of these elevated levels may only be found in products that are near expiration dates.

WHAT IS BENZENE?
Benzene is a colorless or light-yellow, flammable, sweet-smelling liquid chemical compound often associated with industrial use, but lately it is getting more attention for being found in trace amounts in some skincare products.

It’s a hydrocarbon made up of six carbon atoms in a hexagonal ring, each bonded to a hydrogen atom. Benzene’s unique electron distribution gives it remarkable stability, making it less likely to react chemically. It’s used in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries as a solvent and starting material for many chemicals, including plastics, resins, rubber. It’s primarily a byproduct of certain chemical reactions and is sometimes used in product formulations as a solvent or preservative. However, it is NOT an intentional ingredient in quality skincare.

 FDA Findings on Benzene in Skincare

 Benzene Goes by Many Names!
While benzene itself is rarely listed on ingredient labels, it can sometimes appear under different names, including:
✔️ Benzol
✔️ Phenyl hydride
✔️ Coal tar naphtha

More Details on BENZENE: https://www.britannica.com/science/benzene

“Benzene is a colourless liquid with a characteristic odour and is primarily used in the production of polystyrene. It is highly toxic and is a known carcinogen; exposure to it may cause leukemia. As a result, there are strict controls on benzene emissions.”

Assuming most skincare product manufacturers and chemists understand the nature of Benzene, it stands to reason that they would NEVER knowingly formulate skincare products with this dangerous carcinogen.

 According to the CDC Chemical Fact-Sheet:

https://www.cdc.gov/chemical-emergencies/chemical-fact-sheets/benzene.html

Benzene is a colorless or light-yellow liquid at room temperature, characterized by a sweet odor and high flammability. It evaporates rapidly into the air, is heavier than air—allowing it to settle in low-lying areas—and exhibits limited solubility in water, tending to float on the surface.

Sources of Benzene Exposure

Benzene in Skincare Products?

Benzene occurs both naturally and through human activities. Natural sources include volcanic eruptions and forest fires. It is also a component of crude oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke. Industrially, benzene ranks among the top 20 chemicals produced by volume in the United States, serving as a precursor in the manufacture of:

• Plastics
• Resins
• Nylon and synthetic fibers
• Detergents
• Drugs
• Dyes
• Lubricants
• Pesticides
• Rubbers

Common environmental sources of benzene exposure include tobacco smoke, gasoline stations, motor vehicle exhaust, and industrial emissions. Indoor air may contain higher benzene levels due to products like glues, paints, furniture wax, and detergents.

It stands to reason that one may sooner be affected by Benzene exposure if they smoke cigarettes or breathe in motor vehicle exhaust, than putting acne cream on their face.

Health Effects of Benzene

Benzene disrupts cellular function, particularly affecting bone marrow’s ability to produce red blood cells, leading to anemia. It can also compromise the immune system by altering antibody levels and reducing white blood cell counts. Acute inhalation of benzene may result in drowsiness, dizziness, rapid or irregular heartbeat, headaches, tremors, confusion, unconsciousness, and, at extremely high levels, death. Ingestion can cause vomiting, stomach irritation, dizziness, sleepiness, convulsions, rapid or irregular heartbeat, and potentially death. Direct contact with benzene can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.

DON’T BELIEVE ALL THE HYPE AND DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH

Skincare creator, influencer and educated product researcher, Charlotte Parlermino is doing much to help DEBUNK rampant media attacks on products and identify fear-based messaging as it pertains to skincare products and what consumers should actually be worried about.

https://www.tiktok.com/@charlotteparler/video/7481300648756104478

“Let us be free from the NON SCANDAL of #benzene and #larocheposay , hope the social media team is ok.  Nothing bugs me more than getting mad about the right issues (carcinogens) but wasting time with these stories that don’t tell the whole story riling us up about NOTHING. Freak out about the dismantling of the EPA or something”

It’s important to note that these recalls are at the retail level, meaning products are being voluntarily removed from store shelves BY THEIR MANUFACTURERS and online marketplaces in light of the media scares and to prevent further issues.

The FDA has stated that even with daily use of these products for decades, the risk of developing cancer due to benzene exposure is very low. Consumers are advised to check for expired products and dispose of them accordingly.

Limited number of voluntary recalls initiated after FDA testing of acne products for benzene; findings show a small number of products with elevated levels of benzene contamination

https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/limited-number-voluntary-recalls-initiated-after-fda-testing-acne-products-benzene-findings-show

“… 95 acne products containing benzoyl peroxide for possible benzene contamination. FDA has concluded that a limited … products had undetectable or extremely low levels of benzene. FDA initiated independent testing following receipt … the agency that raised concerns about elevated levels of benzene in certain acne products containing benzoyl peroxide. …”

STAY AWARE AND STAY INFORMED

In light of these events, brands like Vivoderm Natural Skincare emphasize their commitment to 100% natural, toxin-free formulations. Vivoderm assures consumers that their products do not contain benzene, aligning with their dedication to providing safe and nourishing skincare solutions.

This situation underscores the importance of fact-checking and thorough research when selecting skincare products. Consumers are encouraged to:

• Review Ingredient Lists: Understand the components of products and their potential effects.
• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of product recalls and safety alerts issued by reputable organizations like the FDA or the CDC,  NOT just rely on media outlets and sensationalized reporting.
• Choose Transparent Brands: Always Opt for companies that prioritize transparency and consumer safety in their formulations.

By making informed choices, consumers can better protect their health and ensure the efficacy of the skincare products they use.

MEDIA HYPE SOURCES:

https://people.com/carcinogen-found-in-acne-products-prompting-recall-11697357

https://www.southernliving.com/l-oreal-la-roche-posay-effaclar-duo-acne-treatment-recall-11694889

https://www.cdc.gov/chemical-emergencies/chemical-fact-sheets/benzene.html

This article is published in DERMASCOPE Magazine, June 2023 edition – written by Rachelle Dupree

https://www.dermascope.com/freedigital/June2023/?page=87

Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are mild acids and gentle chemical exfoliants com­monly used in skin care treatments to improve the appearance and health of skin. First used in skin care in the 1970s, beta hydroxy acids are a type of hydroxy acid, or organic compounds containing a hydroxyl (OH) group.

AHAs vs BHAs

In the world of skin care products, the most common acid-based ingredients are beta hydroxy acids and alpha hy­droxy acids. Both are typically naturally derived from plant materials, although some are synthesized. While they both perform similar functions, the difference is the chemical com­pound structure between the two. While alpha hydroxy acids are separated from the hydroxy part of the molecule by one carbon atom, beta hydroxy acids are separated by two carbon atoms. This distinction means that common beta hydroxy ac­ids are oil-soluble and have a greater ability to penetrate the lipid layers between skin cells, while alpha hydroxy acids are water-soluble and cannot penetrate skin at a deeper layer. This makes beta hydroxy acids the superior choice ingredient for treating acne.

SKIN CARE

Commonly derived from natural sources such as plants, tree bark, fruit, some dairy products, as well as synthetic sources, beta hydroxy acids have a number of beneficial prop­erties that make them useful for oily and acne-prone skin. Beta hydroxy acids’ oil-soluble structure also means they can break down dirt and other debris from skin to remove impuri­ties. This makes them effective at treating a variety of skin conditions including blackheads and whiteheads.

They also assist with basal cell layer stimulation and remove surface cells, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in addition to hyperpigmentation Beta hydroxy acids are also anti-inflammatory, meaning they can help reduce the redness and inflammation associated with acne and other skin conditions.

Salicylic Acid

One of the most common types of beta hydroxy acids is salicylic acid (a derivative of salicin), a natural ingredient de­rived from plants such as willow bark and oil of wintergreen. As a keratolytic medication, it is one of the most popular in­gredients in acne treatments and works by dissolving some of the deeper pore-clogging bonds between skin cells. This effect also produces easy exfoliation by softening or slough­ing off the top layer of skin.

It is generally considered safe for most skin types when used as directed. But be aware of contraindications for dry, sensitive skin or hyperreactive skin. It is also advised to re­frain from using products containing salicylic acid as an all­over body treatment – for instance, on large patches of acne­prone skin, like the back area – as this could contribute to salicylate poisoning.

PUT IT INTO PRACTICE

Beta hydroxy acids are a versatile and effective ingredi­ent that can be found in a variety of skin care products, in­cluding facial cleansers, facial serums, exfoliants, masks, and moisturizers. Most drugstores, beauty stores, online skin care shops, and even some grocery stores carry a variety of prod­ucts containing beta hydroxy acid ingredients. Depending on the skin care professional’s needs, private-label options are available in addition to professional skin care lines.

Products are typically applied to skin once or twice daily and may be combined with other active ingredients to en­hance their effect. It is important to only use complementary products in conjunction with beta hydroxy acids in the correct sequence to avoid negative interactions. When choosing beta hydroxy acid-based products, it is most important to choose the product with the right concentration for the client’s skin type and always follow any special instructions.

The Right Products

Cleansers: One of the easiest ways to incorporate beta hydroxy acids into a skin care routine is through a facial cleanser. When choosing a beta hydroxy acid-based facial cleanser, look for a product with a concentration of 0.5% to 2% beta hydroxy acids. Higher concentrations can be too harsh for some skin types while lower concentrations may not be effective. To help maintain healthy skin, these cleans­ers should only be used once or twice a week to improve skin tone and texture.

Serums: Beta hydroxy acids are most commonly incor­porated through facial serums, which are typically applied after cleansing and toning. When choosing a beta hydroxy acid-based serum, look for a product with a concentration of 1% to 2%.

Masks: Beta hydroxy acids in facial masks are typically used once or twice a week to deeply cleanse and exfoliate skin. Look for mask products with a concentration of 2% to 5% beta hydroxy acids.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS

It is important to note that beta hydroxy acids can be harsh for some skin types and can cause dryness, redness, and irritation. If a client has sensitive skin, it is best to use beta hydroxy acid-based products sparingly and to patch test before using them on a larger area of the face. Additionally, professionals should recommend the use of a good quality sunscreen alongside.

Overall, beta hydroxy acids are a popular and effective skin care ingredient that can provide a variety of benefits for many skin issues. By incorporating beta hydroxy ac­ids into spa treatments, professionals can help their clients improve the appearance of their skin and reduce the risk of breakouts.

Vivoderm Herbal Facial Mask

NOTE:

References

1. Arif, T (2015). Salicylic acid as a peeling agent A comprehensive review. C inical, Cosmetic and lnvestigational Dermatology, 455-461. https://doi.org/10.2147 /ccid.s84765
2. Gancev1ciene, R, Uakou, A. I., Theodoridis, A, Makrantonaki, E., & Zouboulis, C. C. (2012) Skin anti-aging strategies. Dermato-Endocrinology, 4(3), 308-319. https://doi.org/10.4161/ derm.22804
3 Encycloped1a.com. (2020, August 12). Beta Hydroxy. Encycloped1a.com. Retrieved April 20, 2023, from https:/www.encyclopedia.com/medicine/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts· and-maps/beta-hydroxy

* Rachelle Dupree has over 20 years of experi­ence in marketing, media, communications, and design. She studied with a Denver-based herbal­ist and naturopath for four years, combining her marketing knowledge with her love of natural remedies and skin care. She currently works as a marketing and communications director for Vivoderm Natural Skincare and various design clients.

In previous articles we discussed the biology of the skin layers (or epidermis) and the acid mantle. We learned the acid mantle is a very important part to skin health. It is what protects our topmost layer of skin from infection and intrusion of harmful bacteria. Now we discuss the more popular skincare acids in detail and how they are used.

Who would want to put acid on their face?

If you follow trends in skincare and skin products, you most likely have seen numerous references to ‘acids’ – names like, Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Glycolic Acid or Ascorbic Acid to name a few. While the term “acid” may seem harmful or irritating, when used in the proper products and in controlled amounts, it can actually heal and rejuvenate skin – much the same way the acid mantle protects it. The trick in proper skincare is to find the right balance between acid and alkaline maintenance of the skin.

You may not know exactly what these acids do for your skin and how they might help you. Understanding skincare ingredients is key to selecting the right products for your unique skin type and skin concerns.

Cosmetic technology has developed by leaps and bounds but there are still strong reasons to believe as to why should a person follow natural skincare. What is the need to waste time and money in selecting the best skincare formulation when the secret to beautiful skin lies in your very own home? People often seek help from natural skincare products when they are fed up of ineffective commercialized products but actually natural skincare should be considered as the first option.