Johnson & Johnson Recalls Tainted Sunscreen

Johnson & Johnson is recalling all lots of five NEUTROGENA and AVEENO sunscreens due to internal testing which found low levels of benzene in some samples of the products. The recalled sunscreen products are packaged in aerosol cans and were sold nationwide. Consumers should stop using the products and follow the instructions below.

The sunscreens affected by the recall are the following aerosol products:

• NEUTROGENA Beach Defense aerosol sunscreen,
• NEUTROGENA Cool Dry Sport aerosol sunscreen,
• NEUTROGENA Invisible Daily™ defense aerosol sunscreen,
• NEUTROGENA Ultra Sheer aerosol sunscreen, and
• AVEENO Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen.

For product images and a complete listing of lots recalled, check out this link.

Benzene is classified as a human carcinogen by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Johnson & Johnson has asserted that the “daily exposure to benzene in these aerosol sunscreen products at the levels detected in our testing would not be expected to cause adverse health consequences.”, but they are recalling the sunscreens “out of an abundance of caution”.

It is our opinion that any exposure to benzene, including direct skin exposure, should be avoided. Therefore, we recommend that you stop using any recalled sunscreens, apply for a refund from Johnson & Johnson, and choose one of the safer sunscreens listed here.

Consumers may contact the Johnson & Johnson Consumer Care Center at 1-800-458-1673 with questions or to request a refund. You may also fill out the company’s refund form. To receive a refund, you must have the following information:

• Product name, size, and quantity of items purchased
• Proof of purchase

If you have had an adverse reaction to the recalled sunscreens you may report it to the FDA. Download this reporting form or call 1- 800-332-1088 to request a form, then complete it and return by mail to the address on the pre-addressed form, or fax it to 1-800-FDA-0178.

The Collins Law Firm is a premier environmental firm representing communities and individuals who have been negatively impacted by toxic contamination or products. If you have been made ill or lost property value due to toxic chemicals, please call (630) 527-1595 or fill out our contact form for a free evaluation of your environmental claim.