Coppertone Recalls Benzene-Tainted Sunscreens; Cosmetics Regulatory & Legal News

Beiersdorf AG’s Coppertone follows Johnson & Johnson’s Neutrogena and Aveeno brands with an aerosol sunscreen recall announced on 30 September due to benzene contamination. The action, “out of an abundance of caution,” covers five Coppertone sunscreen products, including Coppertone Pure & Simple Baby SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray, advertised as 100% mineral. Coppertone notes, “Benzene is classified as a human carcinogen. Exposure to benzene can occur through inhalation, oral, and skin and it could, depending on the level and extent of exposure, result in an increased risk of cancers including leukemia, and blood cancer of the bone marrow and other blood disorders which can be life-threatening.” However, “daily exposure to benzene at the levels detected in these affected Coppertone aerosol sunscreen spray products would not be expected to cause adverse health consequences based on generally accepted exposure modeling by numerous regulatory agencies,” the company says.

Consumers are entitled to refunds. Coppertone adds, “This voluntary recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the US Food and Drug Administration. The FDA and other medical authorities recognize the public health benefits of sunscreens and strongly advise the use of sunscreen along with other protective measures from the sun.” (Also see "FDA’s Proposed Order For Sunscreens, A First Under OTC Reforms, Reprises 2019 Proposed Rule" - HBW Insight, 24 September, 2021.) If J&J’s experience is any indication, Beiersdorf/Coppertone’s voluntary recall now could trigger class action litigation. (Also see "J&J Recall Of Benzene-Tainted Sunscreens Lends Weight To Valisure Claims, Triggers Class Action" - HBW Insight, 16 July, 2021