L’Oréal is currently confronting six class action lawsuits related to its CeraVe brand and other benzoyl peroxide-based acne treatments, which are accused of containing high levels of the cancer-causing chemical benzene. Plaintiffs argue that the benzene levels in these products significantly exceed federal safety standards, raising serious health concerns.
The lawsuits stem from a March 2024 report by the independent testing lab Valisure, which discovered benzene contamination in several popular acne treatment products, including CeraVe, Proactiv, and Clinique. Benzoyl peroxide, a key ingredient in these treatments, is said to undergo chemical reactions that can form benzene, a carcinogen linked to cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma.
Earlier in August 2024, a motion to consolidate similar lawsuits into a single legal proceeding was rejected by the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) due to the variety of products and manufacturers involved. However, a revised motion filed in late November seeks to consolidate the claims solely against L’Oréal in the District of Hawaii. The outcome of this motion could significantly influence the future course of these legal challenges.
As benzoyl peroxide remains a cornerstone ingredient in many acne treatments, the allegations against L’Oréal highlight broader regulatory and consumer trust issues facing the skincare industry.
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