Product safety testing discovered dangerous levels of benzene in several major brands of spray-on deodorant (and body spray).
Benzene is a notorious human carcinogen that has been shown to cause leukemia. Unsafe levels of the carcinogen were found in some of the most popular deodorant brands including Old Spice, Secret, Suave, and Tag. The FDA has established a benzene limit of 2 ppm in cosmetics. Yet, independent lab tests revealed that some recalled deodorants and antiperspirants had benzene concentrations as high as 9 ppm.
The discovery of benzene in spray-on deodorants could have major ramifications similar to those seen after benzene was found in sunscreen earlier this year. We could see sweeping product recalls before the end of 2021, followed by hundreds of product liability lawsuits against the deodorant manufacturers.