Sunscreen Reviewed Jul 5, 2026

Aveeno Protect + Refresh Aerosol Sunscreen

The "gentle" Aveeno aerosol caught in the 2021 benzene sunscreen recall.

Lawsuit · 2021

Benzene sunscreen class actions

Ongoing consumer litigation over undisclosed benzene in the recalled sprays.

Source →
Recall · 2021 · resolved

2021 benzene aerosol recall

Recalled July 14, 2021 among five J&J aerosol sunscreens after benzene was detected in finished product.

Source →

Our take

Why It’s on Our Radar

We don't recommend it. A benzene recall on a brand marketed as gentle, plus the usual chemical-filter stack — this is a cautionary listing, not a pick.

What's inside

Ingredients & Safety

A chemical-filter aerosol recalled for benzene contamination; the "Aveeno" name implies gentleness the formula and the recall don't support.

A couple to know — 6 ingredients we flag:

Avobenzone 3% — sometimes listed as Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane

The main UVA chemical filter; effective but photo-unstable unless stabilized; FDA lists it as needing more safety data.

Homosalate 10% — sometimes listed as Homomenthyl Salicylate

UVB chemical filter the EU restricts to 7.34% in face products over endocrine questions; FDA says more data are needed.

Octisalate 5% — sometimes listed as Ethylhexyl Salicylate

UVB filter that also stabilizes avobenzone; generally considered lower-risk but not yet FDA GRASE-confirmed.

Octocrylene 3% — sometimes listed as Octocrilene

UVB/UVA filter that can slowly degrade into trace benzophenone over time; EU allows up to 10% and FDA seeks more safety data.

Alcohol Denat. — sometimes listed as Denatured Alcohol

Can be drying; used as a solvent and preservative. Concern depends on concentration.

Fragrance — sometimes listed as Parfum

Undisclosed scent blend that is a common allergen and irritant; choose fragrance-free for sensitive or reactive skin.

Ingredient List Reviewed

Safe Watch Caution
  • Avobenzone 3%
  • Homosalate 10%
  • Octisalate 5%
  • Octocrylene 3%
  • Alcohol Denat. also listed as Denatured Alcohol, SD Alcohol Watch
  • Fragrance also listed as Parfum, Perfume Watch
  • Isobutane

Formula scope: the disclosed ingredient list captured for this review. Formulas can differ by product, scent, country, and date; compare the current package with this list before deciding.

Want another top-tier option? Stream2Sea in Sunscreen & Sun Care currently meets our top criteria. Review its formula scope and cited records before deciding.

Who owns it

Ownership & Independence

Aveeno is owned by Kenvue, spun out of Johnson & Johnson in 2023.

Where to buy

Key Products

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