Aveeno and Neutrogena Spray Sunscreens Recalled Due to Low Levels of Benzene, a Carcinogen

According to a statement from Johnson & Johnson, the levels detected in the recalled sunscreens “would not be expected to cause adverse health consequences,” even with daily exposure. The company says it is recalling the products “out of an abundance of caution.” Benzene is not an ingredient in the sunscreen, and Johnson & Johnson is investigating how it ended up in the recalled products.

The Johnson & Johnson products being recalled, all aerosol sunscreens, are Neutrogena Beach Defense, Neutrogena Cool Dry Sport, Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer, and Aveeno Protect + Refresh. These products were distributed nationwide.

If you have any of these sunscreens, stop using them and throw them away. Call your doctor if you are concerned about any potential symptoms. If you think you’ve had an adverse reaction to one of these products, you can file a report with the Food and Drug Administration.

Wearing sunscreen is critical to protect against the sun’s ultraviolet rays. So though you should stop using these recalled sunscreens if you have them, you should continue to cover up and wear sunscreen as well as a hat and sunglasses when you head outside. During the hottest part of the day, seek shade or stay indoors.