Dry shampoo has become a popular hair care product, offering convenience and freshness between washes. However, a recent nationwide recall has brought attention to potential health risks associated with certain dry shampoos. Unilever United States, a prominent consumer goods company, has voluntarily recalled 19 dry shampoo aerosol products due to the presence of benzene, a known carcinogen.
Understanding the Recall
The recall, announced by Unilever United States, affects select dry shampoo products produced before October 2021. Some of the well-known brands impacted by the recall include Dove, Suave, and TRESemmé. Retailers have been instructed to remove the recalled dry shampoos from their shelves, ensuring consumer safety.
The decision to recall the products was made after an independent health hazard evaluation identified potentially elevated levels of benzene in the dry shampoo aerosols. Benzene is a chemical known to cause cancer in humans, and its presence in these products raised concerns about the potential risks to consumers’ health.
Unilever emphasized that the recall is a precautionary measure, and no adverse events related to this recall have been reported to date. The company also stated that daily exposure to the benzene in the recalled dry shampoo products would not be expected to cause adverse health consequences. However, given the potential risks associated with benzene exposure, the recall is being conducted in collaboration with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Dangers of Benzene Exposure
Benzene is a colorless, flammable liquid that has a sweet odor. It is primarily used in the production of chemicals, plastics, resins, synthetic fibers, rubber, dyes, detergents, and pharmaceuticals. While it has various industrial applications, benzene is classified as a carcinogen by multiple regulatory agencies, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
Long-term Impacts of Benzene Exposure
The long-term impacts of benzene exposure can be severe and life-threatening. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), prolonged exposure to benzene can lead to significant bone marrow damage, blood disorders, and various types of cancer, including leukemia. The severity of benzene poisoning depends on factors such as the amount and duration of exposure.
Routes of Exposure
Exposure to benzene can occur through multiple routes, including inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact. The CDC highlights that people nationwide are exposed to benzene daily at varying levels, from sources such as tobacco smoke to indoor paint. It is crucial to note that immediate signs of high-level benzene exposure can include dizziness, vomiting, unconsciousness, and, in severe cases, even death.
Impacted Dry Shampoo Products
If you have purchased any of the dry shampoo products listed below, it is essential to stop using them immediately. Unilever has provided instructions for reimbursement on its website for affected consumers. Here is a list of the 19 dry shampoo products produced before October 2021 that are subject to the recall:
| Brand | Product |
|---|---|
| Dove | Dry Shampoo Volume and Fullness |
| Dove | Dry Shampoo Fresh Coconut |
| Dove | Dry Shampoo Fresh and Floral |
| Dove | Dry Shampoo Ultra Clean |
| Dove | Dry Shampoo Invisible |
| Dove | Dry Shampoo Detox and Purify |
| Dove | Dry Shampoo Clarifying Charcoal |
| Dove | Dry Shampoo Go Active |
| Nexxus | Dry Shampoo Refreshing Mist |
| Nexxus | Inergy Foam Shampoo |
| Suave | Dry Shampoo Hair Refresher |
| Suave Professionals | Dry Shampoo Refresh and Revive |
| Tresemme | Dry Shampoo Volumizing |
| Tresemme | Dry Shampoo Fresh and Clean |
| Tresemme Pro Pure | Dry Shampoo |
| Bed Head | Oh Bee Hive Dry Shampoo |
| Bed Head | Oh Bee Hive Volumizing Dry Shampoo |
| Bed Head | Dirty Secret Dry Shampoo |
| Bed Head | Rockaholic Dirty Secret Dry Shampoo |
It is important to note that no other Unilever products or brands are affected by this recall.
The Canadian Recall
In addition to the U.S. recall, Unilever Canada also announced a voluntary recall of select Bed Head, Dove, and TRESemmé dry shampoo products. This recall, similar to the U.S. recall, is due to benzene concerns and includes 15 impacted products. Consumers in Canada can find more information about the Canadian recall on Unilever’s official website.
