Unilever Recalls Dry Shampoo Products Over Benzene Fears

October 27, 2022

Unilever has issued a voluntary recall of several aerosol dry shampoo products sold in the United States and Canada due to potential elevated levels of benzene, a carcinogen, marking just the latest product recall over chemical ingredient concerns. 

The voluntary recall of select products applies to the sale of dry shampoo products in both countries and the items involved were produced before October 2021. They come from several different brands owned by Unilever including Dove, Nexxus, Suave, TIGI (Rockaholic and Bed Head), and TRESemmé.

A total list of the affected products produced before October 2021 and consumer UPC codes was provided by Unilever and can be found here. Although the company hasn’t received any reports of adverse events as of October 17 from customers, the recall is being conducted “out of an abundance of caution,” according to a company statement. 

Unilever added in its statement that an internal investigation resulted in the voluntary recall after the propellant in the spray can was found to be the source of the benzene. Unilever added that it is working with suppliers to address the issue.

“Benzene is classified as a human carcinogen,” the company’s statement noted. “Exposure to benzene can occur by inhalation, orally, and through the skin and it can result in cancers including leukemia and blood cancer of the bone marrow and blood disorders which can be life-threatening.” 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirms that “Benzene causes harmful effects on the bone marrow and can cause a decrease in red blood cells, leading to anemia.”

People can be exposed to benzene indoors and outdoors from many different sources. Indeed, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notes that benzene is “used in the manufacture of a wide range of industrial products, including chemicals, dyes, detergents, and some plastics.” 

But an elevated level of the chemical in a regularly used cosmetic product like dry shampoo is certainly cause for some concern. Back in December 2021, a similar recall of aerosol spray haircare products occurred involving brands like Pantene, Herbal Essences, Hair Food, Old Spice, and Aussie, and was also due to unexpected levels of benzene.

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Defective or dangerous products can often lead to investigations and, in some cases, lawsuits. If you or someone you love has ever been injured or got sick due to a defective product, contact the team at Phillips Law Group in Arizona today for a free initial consultation.