Does Batiste Dry Shampoo Contain Benzene: The $2.5M Lawsuit Over Carcinogens

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Does Batiste Dry Shampoo Contain Benzene? Find out answers to this question and also learn what benzene is, why it’s bad for your health and if your favorite dry shampoo is safe or has potentially cancer-causing ingredients.

As a hair stylist and frequent user of dry shampoos, I was alarmed to hear about the potential presence of benzene in these products. Benzene is a known carcinogen and can pose serious health risks if exposed to high levels over an extended period.

So let’s delve into the controversy of Batiste Dry shampoo and the lawsuit over them allegedly containing “cancer-causing ingredients”.

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Does Batiste Dry Shampoo Contain Benzene?

Yes, Batiste dry shampoos had Benzene in its formula in 2021. According to the lawsuit in October 31, 2022 by Valisure, an independent laboratory, Batiste shampoos had about 15 parts per million of Benzene when the “safe” threshold for Benzene as given by the FDA is 2 parts per million. However, Batiste has recalled these shampoos and has promised to modify the formula. But there is NO guarantee that Batiste shampoos are completely safe, so customers’ discretion is advised while buying.

Batiste Dry Shampoo Recall and Lawsuit

There were concerns raised about the presence of benzene in certain batches of Batiste Dry Shampoo. Benzene is a known carcinogen, and its presence in consumer products like dry shampoos is a serious health concern.

According to news reports, in 2021, a lawsuit was filed against Batiste Dry Shampoo’s parent company, Church & Dwight Co. Inc., alleging that certain batches of the product contained high levels of benzene.

The lawsuit was brought by an independent laboratory called Valisure who discovered that the amount of benzene in the dry shampoo was higher than US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) limits through independent testing.

In response to the lawsuit and consumer concerns, Church & Dwight Co. Inc. announced that they would be voluntarily withdrawing certain batches of Batiste Dry Shampoo from the market.

The withdrawal was a precautionary measure taken by the company to address the issue and ensure consumer safety.

What is Benzene and Why is it Added in Dry Shampoos?

Benzene is a colorless and highly flammable liquid with a sweet aroma. It is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in crude oil and various industrial processes. While it can be found in trace amounts in the environment, it is primarily used as a starting material in the production of a wide range of chemicals, including plastics, resins, and synthetic rubber.

In the context of dry shampoos, benzene has been used as a solvent or propellant in certain formulations. It can help disperse and deliver the active ingredients in the product, making it easier to apply and distribute throughout the hair.

However, due to its carcinogenic properties, its use in consumer products, including dry shampoos, has come under scrutiny.

The Side Effects of Benzene in Dry Shampoos and Hair Products

Exposure to high levels of benzene over a prolonged period is known to have detrimental effects on human health.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified benzene as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning it is known to cause cancer in humans. Inhalation, absorption through the skin, or ingestion of benzene can lead to various health issues, including:

1. Cancer: Long-term exposure to benzene has been linked to an increased risk of developing leukemia, specifically acute myeloid leukemia (AML), as well as other blood-related cancers.

2. Respiratory Irritation: Short-term exposure to high concentrations of benzene vapor can cause respiratory irritation, leading to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

3. Skin Irritation: Direct contact with benzene can cause skin irritation, redness, and dermatitis.

4. Central Nervous System Effects: Benzene exposure can affect the central nervous system, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, drowsiness, and headaches.

How Much Percentage and Quantity of Benzene is in Batiste Dry Shampoo?

Batiste Dry Shampoo was found to contain benzene in trace amounts; this was about 15 parts per million of the chemical. However, it’s essential to note that these specific products were involved in a lawsuit due to their benzene content. The lawsuit prompted the withdrawal of the affected batches from the market.

It’s important to understand that the presence of benzene in consumer products is generally regulated by health and safety authorities. Manufacturers are required to comply with guidelines and standards regarding the maximum allowable concentration of benzene to ensure consumer safety.

After the lawsuit, Batiste took measures to address the issue, and the current batches of their dry shampoos do not contain benzene. However, as a responsible consumer, it’s always a good idea to check the product labels and do some research on the formulation before making a purchase.

How Do I Know If My Dry Shampoo Has Benzene?

Before the lawsuit, it might have been challenging to determine if a specific batch of Batiste Dry Shampoo contained benzene. However, since the affected products have been withdrawn, it is less of a concern with the current batches available on the market.

Nonetheless, to ensure the safety of any cosmetic product you use, including dry shampoos, follow these steps:

1. Check the Ingredients: Look at the list of ingredients on the product label. If you are concerned about benzene or any other harmful chemicals, research the individual ingredients to understand their safety profile.

2. Read Reviews: Check for consumer reviews and feedback on the product to see if there have been any reported issues or concerns.

3. Choose Trusted Brands: Opt for products from reputable brands that prioritize safety and are transparent about their ingredient lists.

4. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on product recalls or safety alerts issued by health authorities. Staying informed can help you make better decisions about the products you use.

Conclusion

While Batiste Dry Shampoo was once found to contain trace amounts of benzene, the affected batches have been withdrawn from the market due to a lawsuit. The current batches of Batiste Dry Shampoo do not contain benzene.

Benzene is a known carcinogen and can pose serious health risks if used in consumer products. It’s essential to be cautious and informed about the ingredients in the products we use and to choose hair care products that prioritize safety and transparency.

There are plenty of alternative dry shampoos available that do not contain benzene, allowing you to enjoy refreshed and clean hair without compromising your health.

Always read product labels, do research, and consider consumer reviews to make informed decisions about the products you use on your hair and body.