High levels of benzene, a cancer-causing chemical, have been detected in some dry shampoo products, according to a new report from Valisure, an independent laboratory.
Last month some aerosol dry shampoos – including Dove, Nexxus, Suave, TIGI, and TRESemmé were voluntarily recalled because of the potential presence of benzene.
Then Valisure sent a citizen petition to the US Food and Drug Administration where they described that among 148 batches from 34 different brands of dry shampoo products, 70% of samples tested showed “quantifiable” levels of benzene; 11 samples showed levels over 10 times more than 2 parts per million (ppm), the FDA limit for drugs.
Their petition urges the FDA to “expeditiously request recalls” on the affected products containing benzene.
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Last year, several deodorants and sunscreen products were recalled due to detections of benzene.
Benzene is formed from both natural and man-made processes. “Natural sources of benzene include volcanoes and forest fires. Benzene is also a natural part of crude oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke,” according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
