Neutrogena Benzene Sunscreen Lawsuit: The Recall and Settlement

The Recall

In July 2021, Johnson & Johnson recalled several Neutrogena and Aveeno aerosol sunscreens after benzene — a known human carcinogen — was detected in testing. The recall followed an independent lab’s report of benzene in dozens of sun-care products across multiple brands. Benzene is not a sunscreen ingredient; where it appears, it is generally an unwanted contaminant linked to the manufacturing or propellant.

Because sunscreen is used repeatedly on skin, often on children, the finding drew immediate concern and litigation.

The Settlement

Consumers filed class actions that were consolidated, and a settlement was approved in 2022. It offered cash refunds for buyers of the recalled aerosol products, plus vouchers — reported up to a $1.75 million pool — for purchasers of related non-recalled Neutrogena and Aveeno products. Johnson & Johnson did not admit wrongdoing. A proposed version drew an appellate challenge before the litigation was resolved.

The settlement addresses economic loss — the money paid for recalled or affected product — not personal-injury claims, which would be individual.

What Consumers Should Know

Check any Neutrogena or Aveeno sunscreen against the recall list and stop using recalled product. The benzene issue affected multiple brands, so it is worth checking other sunscreens too. For any active claim, the court-approved administrator is the only place to verify eligibility and deadlines.