J&J recalls Aveeno and Neutrogena sunscreens after carcinogen found in certain sprays

July 14 (Reuters) – Johnson & Johnson (JNJ.N) on Wednesday announced it was voluntarily recalling all batches of five Neutrogena and Aveeno brand aerosol sunscreen products from the market after detecting a carcinogenic chemical in some samples .

After internal testing identified low levels of benzene in some samples, J&J said it decided to withdraw the products from the market.

Benzene is classified as a human carcinogen, a substance that could potentially cause cancer depending on the level and extent of exposure.

“Although benzene is not an ingredient in any of our sunscreen products, it has been detected in some samples of impacted aerosolized finished sunscreen products,” the company said.

“Daily exposure to benzene in these aerosolized sunscreen products at levels detected in our tests is not expected to have adverse health consequences.”

However, the company said it was recalling all lots of these specific aerosolized sunscreen products as a precaution.

The recalled aerosol sunscreens are Neutrogena Beach Defense, Neutrogena Cool Dry Sport, Neutrogena Invisible Daily defense, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer and Aveeno Protect + Refresh.

J&J said consumers should stop using the affected products and properly dispose of them.

Consumers should contact their doctor or health care provider if they have any concerns, questions, or have encountered any problems while using these products.

Report of the entrepreneur Sabahatjahan in Bangalore; Editing by Subhranshu Sahu

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