Cancer-causing chemical concern in common acne treatments, lab report suggests

There are concerns of a cancer-causing chemical in common acne treatments.

A new report from an independent lab called Valisure suggests problems with the stability of benzoyl peroxide.

According to the report, over time, the acne treatment can produce benzene -- a known carcinogenic specifically related to leukemia.

Clearasil, Neutrogena and CeraVe are just some of the brands you might recognize for skin and acne treatments. Some of their products contain benzoyl peroxide.

"Essentially what we found is it is unstable as a drug product as a molecule and forms the potent human carcinogen called benzene," said David Light, co-founder and president of Valisure. "Benzene is similar to lead or asbestos -- banned toxic substances that you will never find on a label and absolutely should not be inside of consumer products."

You may have even heard of it from past contamination recalls in hand sanitizers and sunscreen. But contamination is only part of the concern with these acne products.

"Unfortunately what we're seeing from the benzoyl peroxide products is not only do we find benzene in these products on the shelf, but that number increases and can increase substantially over time," Light said.

In fact, the amount of benzene can increase by the hundreds over time, especially if the products are kept in warmer conditions like a hot car or hot shower.

Because of these findings, Valisure sent a citizen petition urging the FDA to recall these products.

"It seems like this is a very broad issue that affects broadly these products and may need not only recalls but perhaps a market withdrawal," Light said.

Valisure officials say if you are using an acne treatment with benzoyl peroxide, it's a good idea to keep it in a cool place, like the fridge.

They also suggest switching to another acne treatment, like salicylic acid or adapalene.

Light says these problems weren't uncovered until this study, but according to their research, they are able to fix them.