Johnson & Johnson said on Wednesday it was recalling five of its Neutrogena Sunscreen products after some samples were found to contain low levels of benzene, a chemical that can cause cancer on repeated exposure.
The affected products, which are packaged in aerosol cans, are Aveeno Protect + Refresh Spray Sunscreen and four versions of Neutrogena Sunscreen: Beach Defense Spray Sunscreen, CoolDry Sport Spray Sunscreen, Invisible Daily Sunscreen Defense Spray, and UltraSheer Spray sunscreen.
The recall covers all box sizes and all levels of sun protection factor or SPF. The products were sold nationwide through specialist dealers.
The health giant said the benzene was found after testing by the company and an independent lab. They are investigating how the chemical got into products.
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J&J said he is working to remove all batches of the five products from store shelves. He urged consumers to immediately stop using sunscreen and said customers can get a refund by calling the J&J customer service center at 1-800-458-1673. Visit the Neutrogena and Aveeno websites for more information.
J&J said in a statement that “the use of these products is not expected to result in adverse health effects” and that it has voluntarily chosen to withdraw them “as a precaution.”
The statement added that people should use alternative sunscreen to protect themselves from cancerous melanoma of the skin.
Benzene is a widespread and highly flammable chemical found throughout the environment. Repeated exposure to high enough concentrations can cause cancer.
As per the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it can also damage the immune system and prevent cells from functioning properly.
How the chemical works depend on whether a person accidentally inhales or ingests it, or comes in contact with skin and clothing. Symptoms range from dizziness and irregular heartbeat to seizures and death.
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J&J, based in New Brunswick, New Jersey, said it notified the Food and Drug Administration of the recall.
