Debunking Benzene in Benzoyl Peroxide- Do You Need to STOP Using Benzoyl Peroxide?

There has been a recent uproar in the scientific community.

Valisure, an independent testing laboratory, filed a petition with the US FDA, requesting a recall of anti-acne treatments affected by elevated levels of benzene- a known carcinogen.

They stated that “high levels of benzene” were found in acne products containing benzoyl peroxide, including popular brands like Proactiv, Clearasil, and PanOxyl, and products from Estée Lauder’s Clinique, Target, Walgreens, and Walmart.

As part of the petition, the company requested that the FDA “recall and suspend sales of benzoyl peroxide from the US market.”

This is a huge demand!

Do Benzoyl Peroxide Products contain Benzene?

But why did Valisure make such claims?

The company independently conducted a study and found that benzoyl peroxide decomposed into benzene over time when combined with other substances in acne medication.

But what is important for you to remember is – “this was particularly seen at higher temperatures in its testing.”

Apparently, the medication can be exposed to prolonged heat when in settings like a car on a hot day or a bathroom where there’s steam from a shower thereby leading to benzene levels at higher temperatures.

I know there has been a lot of debate regarding this topic. Hence, I prefer if you hear me out and understand what to do about this situation.

I discuss it in detail in the video below. Jump to 1:43 on the timestamps directly if you already know the back story and want to jump straight to the deets.

Whenever I read a study, I always do so with a pinch of salt. Many variables need to be factored into. How the data extrapolates to us, is what we need to dissect and understand.

I sincerely hope you watch the video. Explaining it verbally is far easier than writing it. Words tend to be misunderstood sometimes.

But to be brief, I don’t want you to panic or worry or even stop using benzoyl peroxide for that matter until we get more evidence to support this.

I think benzoyl peroxide is a wonderful ingredient and works very well for specific acne forms.

But we simply cannot dismiss this information that we have on hand.

Follow these Tips if You are using Benzoyl Peroxide

• Use it only as a spot treatment
• Use it only for as long as advised under the guidance of your dermatologist
• Make sure you don’t leave it in a car on a hot day or expose it to high temperatures knowingly or unknowingly!

There is a lot of information available today, but it is my job to dissect it and help you absorb the necessary and relevant knowledge from it.

Let me know in the comments if you use benzoyl peroxide and whether you will continue using it or if are you planning to stop it.

The Verdict

Being mindful of what products you choose and what ingredients they contain can help you tremendously in your journey towards clear skin.

What you consume in terms of your diet and other lifestyle factors plays an equally important role in achieving glowing skin and overall radiant health. Here is a quick starter guide towards the Top 7 Supplements to Improve Longevity.

Being proactive in our choices today can ensure better overall health for years.

If you struggle with stubborn weight, fatigue, skin issues, or other health problems and feel like you’ve reached a plateau with your healing, check out our telehealth integrative health coaching consultation.

In my telehealth integrative health coaching clinic, we go the extra mile to uncover all areas of your health that can contribute to your skin and overall health problems.

Even though health problems can be overwhelming, we aim to walk with you on your journey to better health naturally.

Till then,

Continue to glow, thrive, and shine as always.

Sending lots of healthy and happy wishes your way. ?

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