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Recalls regarding carcinogens (cancer-causing substances) in drugs have reached the sunscreen aisle. In July 2021, Johnson & Johnson recalled five aerosol sunscreen products and CVS stopped selling two sunscreen products resulting from the presence of the carcinogen benzene. The move comes after an internet pharmacy identified traces of benzene in dozens of sunscreen products and asked the FDA to analyze. The same pharmacy (Valisure LLC) was also chargeable for the testing that triggered the 2019 and 2020 recalls of heartburn and diabetes drugs that contained the carcinogen N-nitrosodimethylamine. Johnson & Johnson officials say benzene isn’t a sunscreen ingredient and make sure that additional testing has found benzene in some products at levels so low that it could not be expected to cause health problems. .
Still, you're advised to stop using the products immediately, including most Neutrogena spray sunscreens and one Aveeno product (Aveeno Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen). CVS has stopped selling CVS Health after Sun Aloe Vera (a gel) and CVS Health after Sun Aloe Vera Spray. However, don't avoid sunscreen altogether: just select different brands.
Even in October, an excessive amount of sun radiation is harmful and increases the danger of skin cancer. Before going outside, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to any exposed skin.
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