FDA Updates Nationwide Deodorant Recall: Assessing the Risk Levels for Consumers

Power Stick Roll-On Antiperspirants Recalled: FDA Cites Manufacturing Issues

New York, NY – Consumers are being warned to stop using three Power stick roll-on antiperspirant deodorants following a voluntary recall announced this week.The recall impacts a significant number of cases across the United States,raising concerns about potential manufacturing deficiencies.

The affected products are:

Power Stick for Her roll-On Antiperspirant Deodorant Powder fresh (1.8 oz/ 53 mL, UPC Code 815195019313) – 21,265 cases recalled
Power Stick Invisible Protection Roll-On Antiperspirant Deodorant Spring Fresh (1.8 oz/53 mL, UPC Code 815195018194) – 22,482 cases recalled
Power Stick original Nourishing Invisible Protection roll-On Antiperspirant Deodorant (1.8 oz/53 mL,UPC Code 815195018224) – 23,467 cases recalled

The Food and Drug administration (FDA) identified “CGMP deviations” – Current Good Manufacturing Practice deviations – as the reason for the recall,though specific details regarding the violations have not yet been released. Consumers are advised to discontinue use of the recalled products and to follow the instructions of their retailer or the manufacturer regarding returns or proper disposal.

Understanding CGMP and Product Safety

Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) regulations enforced by the FDA are designed to ensure the quality and consistency of manufactured products, including cosmetics and over-the-counter drugs like antiperspirants. Deviations from these standards can potentially compromise product safety and effectiveness. While the FDA has not specified the nature of the CGMP deviations in this case, common issues can range from inadequate quality control procedures to improper sanitation or contamination risks during the manufacturing process.

Manufacturer Statement

A.P. Deauville, the manufacturer of Power Stick, emphasizes its commitment to domestic production and quality control on its website. The company states it chooses to maintain its own FDA-regulated factory rather than outsource manufacturing, believing this allows for better quality and affordability.

Recall Status and Consumer Resources

the FDA’s enforcement report indicates the recall is currently ongoing. Consumers with questions or concerns are encouraged to check with their retailer or contact A.P. Deauville directly for further information.

Staying Informed About Recalls

Product recalls are a critical aspect of consumer safety. Here are some resources to stay informed:

FDA Enforcement Reports: https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC): https://www.cpsc.gov/
Retailer Websites: Many retailers post recall information on their websites.

What steps should consumers take to determine if their deodorant product is affected by the recall?

Understanding the Recent Deodorant Recall

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently expanded a nationwide recall of several popular deodorant brands due to the presence of benzene, a known human carcinogen. This recall impacts millions of consumers and raises critically important questions about product safety and potential health risks. This article breaks down the latest updates, assesses the risk levels, and provides actionable steps for consumers. Key terms related to this recall include deodorant recall, benzene contamination, FDA safety alert, and personal care product safety.

Which Deodorant Brands Are Affected?

As of August 11, 2025, the following brands have issued voluntary recalls, or have been identified as potentially affected:

Old Spice: Certain batches of Old Spice Invisible Solid deodorant.

Secret: Specific lots of Secret Aluminum Free deodorant.

Native: Several varieties of Native deodorant sprays.

Equate: Walmart’s Equate Beauty deodorant, specifically aerosol sprays.

Sure: Certain Sure Unscented deodorant products.

It’s crucial to check the lot codes on your deodorant products against the FDA’s official recall list,available here. The FDA website is the most reliable source for up-to-date information on deodorant recalls 2025.

The Risk of benzene Exposure: What You Need to Know

Benzene is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for research on Cancer (IARC). Exposure to benzene can occur through inhalation, skin absorption, or ingestion. While the levels of benzene found in the recalled deodorants are considered low, even limited exposure over time can pose health risks.

here’s a breakdown of potential health effects:

Short-term exposure (high levels): Dizziness, headache, nausea, and irritation of the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract.

Long-term exposure (low levels): Increased risk of leukemia and other blood cancers. The FDA is notably concerned about cumulative exposure. Benzene exposure risks are a primary driver of this recall.

Assessing Your Personal Risk Level

Determining your risk level depends on several factors:

1. Frequency of Use: How often do you use the recalled deodorant? Daily, frequent use increases potential exposure.
2. Duration of Use: How long have you been using the product? Longer periods of use equate to higher cumulative exposure.
3. Specific Product & Lot Code: Was your deodorant part of the recalled lot? Checking the lot code is paramount.
4. Application Method: Aerosol sprays may present a higher inhalation risk compared to solid stick formulations. Deodorant spray risks are being closely monitored.
5. Individual Sensitivity: Pre-existing health conditions may increase your vulnerability to benzene’s effects.

Risk Level Guide:

Low Risk: Infrequent use of a product not on the recalled lot list.

Moderate risk: Regular use of a product potentially affected, but lot code is unknown.

High risk: Frequent, long-term use of a product confirmed to be part of the recall.

What Should Consumers Do?

The FDA recommends the following steps:

Stop Using Immediately: Discontinue use of any recalled deodorant product.

Check Lot Codes: Verify if your product is included in the recall by visiting the FDA website or the manufacturer’s website.

Contact the Manufacturer: Most manufacturers offer refunds or replacements for recalled products. Information can be found on their respective websites.

Report Adverse Reactions: If you’ve experienced any adverse health effects after using the recalled deodorant, report it to the FDA’s MedWatch program: https://www.fda.gov/safety/medwatch.

Consider Alternatives: Explore aluminum-free deodorant options or other brands not affected by the recall.

The Role of propellants and Contamination Sources

The FDA investigation points to the propellant used in aerosol deodorants as a potential source of benzene contamination. Propellants, often butane and isobutane, can contain trace amounts of benzene. Manufacturing processes and quality control measures are under scrutiny to prevent future contamination. Deodorant ingredients are being re-evaluated across the industry.

Real-World Example: The Johnson & Johnson Talc Powder Recall

This deodorant recall echoes past safety concerns, such as the Johnson & Johnson talc powder recall, where asbestos contamination led to important legal battles and health consequences.These cases highlight the importance of rigorous testing and openness in the personal care product industry. Product liability and consumer protection are key takeaways from these events.

Benefits of Switching to Safer Alternatives

Choosing safer deodorant alternatives can offer several benefits:

**Reduced Exposure