Still, benzene, which is a widely used chemical that’s present throughout the environment, is classified as a human carcinogen.
It can cause cancer with repeated exposure at high enough levels. It also can damage the immune system and prevent cells from functioning properly, according to theThe chemical’s effects vary by whether a person accidentally inhales or ingests it or gets it on skin and clothing. Symptoms range from dizziness and irregular heartbeat to convulsions and, at very high levels, death.
The company notified distributors and is arranging for the products to be returned. Meanwhile, consumers are told to stop using the product. If it's unused, it can be returned to the place of purchase, according to the notice. Benzene has been found in commonly used products throughout 2021 and 2022 including sunscreens as well as dry shampoo and conditioners, prompting several recalls.
This summer, Banana Boat's Hair and Scalp sunscreen was recalled after tests detected trace levels of the carcinogen benzene. In February, Sure and Brut-branded deodorant and antiperspirant aerosol sprays distributed across North America were recalled after officials discovered "unexpected levels" of benzene.At the time, the company, TCP HOT Acquisition LLC dba HRB Brands, said that the cancer-causing chemical was "not an ingredient in any of the recalled products.