Multiple popular sunscreen products have been recalled in the past year over concerns about the presence of benzene, a known carcinogen. All of the products at issue are aerosol spray sunscreens manufactured by Johnson & Johnson (through the brands Neutrogena and Aveeno) and Coppertone. 

The widespread sunscreen recalls follow multiple investigations that revealed higher-than-normal levels of benzene were present in many popular sunscreen products, rendering them unsafe for use. Lawsuits have been filed nationwide concerning Johnson & Johnson’s failure to disclose to consumers that some of its Neutrogena and Aveeno sunscreen products were contaminated with benzene. 

Many lawsuits were filed before Johnson & Johnson voluntarily recalled the affected products. Most sunscreen lawsuits have been consolidated in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida. 

Settlement Would Resolve Claims Included in Consolidated Litigation

A settlement agreement between plaintiffs and defendants Johnson & Johnson and Costco has been reached that would resolve claims pending in the consolidated action in Florida. However, the terms of the settlement are not yet known, and the judge overseeing the consolidated action must approve the settlement. 

Because additional claimants are expected to file lawsuits, many are wondering whether the settlement agreement will account for future claims. Consumers who are considering filing a lawsuit should speak with a mass tort lawyer well versed in representing plaintiffs involved in large, consolidated actions. 

Are All Spray Sunscreens Affected?

While numerous brands and types of aerosol sunscreen products have been recalled for being contaminated with unsafe levels of benzene, not all products are affected. On July 14, 2021, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced Johnson & Johnson’s voluntary recall of all lots of the following sunscreen products:

  • Neutrogena Beach Defense aerosol sunscreen;
  • Neutrogena Cool Dry Sport aerosol sunscreen;
  • Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense aerosol sunscreen;
  • Neutrogena Ultra Sheer aerosol sunscreen; and
  • Aveeno Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen.

On September 30, 2021, the FDA announced Coppertone’s voluntary recall of certain lots of the following sunscreen products:

  • Coppertone Pure & Simple SPF 50 aerosol sunscreen;
  • Coppertone Pure & Simple Kids SPF 50 aerosol sunscreen;
  • Coppertone Pure & Simple Baby SPF 50 aerosol sunscreen;
  • Coppertone Sport Mineral SPF 50 aerosol sunscreen; and
  • Travel-size Coppertone Sport Spray SPF 50 aerosol sunscreen.

Coppertone states that the recall is out of an abundance of caution. Despite the manufacturer’s assertion, the presence of a known carcinogen poses a risk of harm to consumers, and many consumers have used Coppertone, Neutrogena, and Aveeno products regularly. 

Contact Searcy Denney Today for a Free Consultation

Have you used a sunscreen product that is subject to recall? If so, you may have options for seeking compensation, especially if you have been diagnosed with cancer after heavy use. Because there have been multiple sunscreen recalls, speaking with a product liability lawyer is a wise choice to learn whether the sunscreen product you used is subject to recall. 

The sunscreen recall lawyers of Searcy Denney employ a team of legal professionals who handle nothing but complex mass tort cases. Reach out to our firm to discuss your situation by calling (800) 780-8607 or by completing a free case evaluation form on our website.

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