Is Aveeno Sunscreen Considered Safe? Examining the Facts

Examining the Safety of Aveeno Sunscreen

Aveeno is a popular skincare brand owned by Johnson & Johnson that offers a line of sunscreen products. However, in July 2021, Johnson & Johnson issued a voluntary recall of some Neutrogena and Aveeno aerosol sunscreen products due to traces of benzene detected in samples.

This raised concerns for consumers about the safety of Aveeno sunscreen. Here is a detailed look at what benzene is, how it can impact health, and an evaluation of whether Aveeno sunscreen is considered safe for use.

What is Benzene?

Benzene is a colorless or light yellow liquid chemical compound. It is both manmade and occurs naturally in the environment. Benzene is used to make plastics, resins, synthetic fibers, rubbers, lubricants, dyes, pesticides, medications and more.

It’s also found in gasoline, glues, paints, furniture wax and detergents. Exposure can occur through inhalation, orally, or through the skin. The main health concern with benzene is that prolonged exposure to high levels can cause cancer.

Benzene Exposure and Health Risks

According to the FDA, benzene is a class 1 solvent that should not be used in the manufacture of drug products due to its toxicity. Brief exposure to low levels of benzene may cause dizziness, irregular heartbeat, headaches and vomiting. Long-term exposure can harm the bone marrow and cause blood disorders and leukemia.

Exposure standards are set to limit benzene risks. The FDA limit is 2 parts per million (ppm) for drugs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets a limit of 5 ppm for drinking water. For workplaces, OSHA limits airborne benzene exposure to 1 ppm for an 8 hour day.

Benzene in Recalled Sunscreen Products

In Johnson & Johnson's voluntary July 2021 recall, internal testing revealed low levels of benzene in some Neutrogena and Aveeno aerosol sunscreen products. Out of an abundance of caution, they issued a recall for specific production lots.

The company noted that according to independent testing, the levels detected were not expected to cause adverse health consequences under normal use. Exposure in these cases would likely be intermittent and not at levels that would exceed safety standards or lead to a significant health risk.

Aveeno Sunscreen Safety Evaluation

To evaluate whether Aveeno sunscreen products are safe, we need to look at:

• The specific products affected by the recall
• Benzene levels detected
• Ongoing product testing and quality control
• Adherence to FDA safety standards

Out of Aveeno's full range of sunscreen products, only 2 specific aerosol products were included in the voluntary recall - Aveeno Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen and Aveeno Ultra-Calming aerosol sunscreen.

Johnson & Johnson reported that benzene levels detected were at or below 2 ppm. This is at or below the FDA limit for drugs and nearly four times lower than the EPA drinking water standard. Independent lab results did not expect these low intermittent levels to pose a health risk.

The company has said they have stopped distributing the impacted products, are looking into how benzene was introduced, and will continue ongoing testing to ensure quality and safety standards are met across their sunscreen products.

Based on this, the Aveeno sunscreens not included in the recall appear to meet FDA regulatory standards for consumer safety based on current information.

How to Minimize Benzene Exposure from Sunscreens

While risks are low from properly formulated sunscreens, those concerned about benzene exposure can take these precautions:

• Avoid aerosol/spray sunscreen formulations as these have higher reported benzene levels.
• Check if your sunscreen bottle has an expiration date and don't use if expired.
• Store sunscreens in cool place and discard if they have changed color or smell.
• Avoid using excessive amounts of sunscreen and reapplying more than directed.
• Consider seeking shade, protective clothing, and wide-brimmed hats to minimize sunscreen needs.
• Look for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients.

Using Aveeno Sunscreen Properly

To use Aveeno sunscreens safely and effectively:

• Check that your sunscreen is within the expiration date.
• Shake bottle well before applying.
• Use enough to generously coat exposed skin - about 1 ounce per application.
• Rub in thoroughly until product disappears into skin.
• Reapply at least every 2 hours and after swimming/sweating.
• Store in a cool, dry place.
• Discard if irritating, separating, or has a rancid smell.

Carefully following usage directions provides the sun protection stated on the product label while limiting health risks.

The Safety of Other Key Aveeno Ingredients

In addition to the recent concern over benzene contamination, some consumers have expressed worries over other components commonly found in Aveeno products. Here is some background on the safety of key ingredients:

Dimethicone

Dimethicone is a silicone-based polymer used in skin and hair care products as a conditioning agent. According to safety assessments, medical literature and toxicological data, dimethicone is considered non-toxic and non-irritating when formulated and used properly in cosmetics. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) expert panel concluded that dimethicone is safe for use in cosmetic products.

Sodium Hyaluronate

Sodium hyaluronate is the salt of hyaluronic acid and has exceptional moisture-binding capabilities. It holds up to 1000 times its weight in water. Sodium hyaluronate helps skin stay hydrated and supple. It is generally well tolerated, even by sensitive skin. The CIR expert panel determined that sodium hyaluronate is safe as currently used in cosmetics.

Colloidal Oatmeal

Finely ground oatmeal is used in Aveeno products for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. Due to a high concentration of polysaccharides and beta-glucan, colloidal oatmeal is considered a skin protectant ingredient. Aveeno conducts rigorous safety assessments of raw ingredients to ensure quality and purity. Numerous studies demonstrate the safety and efficacy of colloidal oatmeal for sensitive and compromised skin.

Aveeno Sunscreen Recalls and Lawsuits

In addition to the 2021 Johnson & Johnson recall of some Aveeno aerosol sunscreens due to benzene traces, there have been a few other notable incidents involving Aveeno sunscreen products over the years:

2018 Recall Due to Microbial Contamination

In 2018, some Aveeno sunscreen sprays were voluntarily recalled due to microbial contamination. The recall affected 12 types of Aveeno aerosol sunscreen after bacteria was detected during routine testing. The company advised consumers to discard impacted products.

2016 Recall for Packaging Issues

Aveeno Continuous Protection Sensitive Skin sunscreen lotions with SPF 50 and 70 were recalled in 2016. This was due to an issue with the bottles leaking if squeezed. The company asked retailers to remove products with specific lot codes and advised consumers to safely discard leaking bottles.

Class Action Lawsuits Over Sunscreen Claims

Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. faced class action lawsuits in 2021 over claims of false and deceptive advertising of Aveeno baby sunscreen. The lawsuits alleged the products did not provide the stated SPF protection and were not "natural" or "mineral-based" as claimed. The company denied wrongdoing and cases were pending as of late 2021.

Key Takeaways on Aveeno Sunscreen Safety

In summary:

• Trace benzene was detected in some Aveeno aerosol sunscreens, leading to a voluntary recall in 2021.
• The levels found were within or below FDA safety limits based on independent lab testing.
• Ongoing quality control and testing procedures ensure Aveeno sunscreens meet regulatory standards.
• Properly following usage directions minimizes health risks from chemicals in sunscreens.
• Aveeno remains a trusted sunscreen brand, though consumers should always be aware of recent recalls and lawsuits.
• Consult your doctor if you have any concerns about sunscreen ingredients or sensitivity.

When used as directed, most Aveeno sunscreen products appear to be safe and effective forms of sun protection. But proper application and common-sense precautions are important when using any sunscreen.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.