Common Acne Drug Might Become Carcinogenic at Room Temperature

WEDNESDAY, Oct. 9, 2024 (HealthDay News) -- Widely-used acne creams can become contaminated with a known carcinogen even if kept at room temperature, a new study warns.

Creams containing benzoyl peroxide (BPO) can wind up containing high levels of benzene while sitting on a store shelf or in a medicine cabinet, researchers found after testing 111 products from major U.S. retailers.

Brands tested containing benzoyl peroxide included products from Clearasil, Clean & Clear, Neutrogena, Proactiv, Up & Up and store brand equivalents.