The cancer-causing substance has been detected in sunscreen, deodorants, acne treatments, and various other personal care items. Here’s what you should know: Benzene appears to have emerged everywhere in recent years. Initially, it involved hand sanitizers containing “unacceptable levels” of the cancer-causing substance. Subsequently, antifungal foot sprays were recalled, and there were concerning reports about contaminated deodorants, dry shampoos, and sunscreens. These discoveries have sparked frantic news articles and social media discussions. Wellness influencers on TikTok have advised against the use of sunscreen, and one doctor on the platform even likened the use of dry shampoo containing benzene to smoking cigarettes. Multiple class-action lawsuits have been initiated concerning the findings. Benzene, a substance naturally occurring in crude oil, is not deliberately included in these products. Instead, it is utilized in the production of chemicals like dyes, detergents, paints, and plastics. It may be present in personal care items if the chemicals used are not sufficiently purified, or if certain active ingredients in the products interact or degrade. Currently, there is no evidence to indicate that low exposure to benzene from these products poses serious health risks.
