The Hong Kong Consumer Council found that dry shampoo aerosol products available in the city "may have potential risk of benzene contamination due to the use of LPG components."
The organisation examined the labelling information of 21 dry shampoo models and reviewed overseas studies, in light of large-scale recalls that have occurred in the US.
The Council analysed 21 models of dry shampoos, including 11 aerosol sprays, 4 powder or powder sprays, and 6 liquid sprays, gels, or mousses.
All 11 aerosol products were labelled as containing LPG components such as propane, butane, isobutane, or HFC 152a, while 4 of these were labelled as containing cyclosiloxane compounds D5 and/or D6.
In 2022, a US study revealed that among 148 different batches of dry shampoo samples from 34 brands, over 70% were found to contain detectable levels of benzene in the first spray.
In the same year, another study in New Zealand pointed out that benzene contamination would be more common in products containing propane, butane, isobutane or hydrofluorocarbon (HFC)152a as propellants, and that such aerosol propellants were also commonly used in dry shampoos.
"Although there is no evidence to suggest harm to human health through occasional use of dry shampoos, for safety and environmental reasons the Council recommends consumers to minimise the use of aerosol products which contain LPG components and cyclosiloxane compounds, and to switch to alternatives with simple formulation," advised the Council.
"Regardless of which type of dry shampoo, it should be used in well-ventilated areas. Avoid using in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation, avoid spraying towards the eyes, and keep it away from food and beverages," it added.
Hong Kong Consumer Council issues benzene recommendation
