In recent years, personal care products have come under increasing scrutiny, particularly as safety concerns regarding everyday items like deodorants come to light. The year 2025 has seen a noticeable surge in deodorant recalls, with several brands voluntarily or mandatorily pulling their products off store shelves. Among these, the Power Stick deodorant recall has stood out, drawing public and media attention due to the brand’s wide availability and affordability.

This blog will break down why deodorants are being recalled, explore the case of Power Stick deodorant, and guide consumers on what to do if they’ve been using any of the affected products.

What Is a Deodorant Recall?

A deodorant recall occurs when a manufacturer or regulatory body removes a product from the market due to safety concerns, contamination, mislabeling, or regulatory non-compliance. In most cases, recalls are initiated to protect consumer health and prevent further exposure to harmful substances.

In 2025, the spike in deodorants recalled has primarily been due to the detection of benzene, a known carcinogen, in several aerosol spray deodorants. This alarming discovery has prompted both companies and watchdog agencies to act quickly in the interest of public health.

Why Are Deodorants Being Recalled in 2025?

The recent wave of deodorant recalls can largely be attributed to three major factors:

1. Benzene Contamination

Several independent laboratory tests revealed traces of benzene in aerosol deodorant sprays. Benzene is a colorless, flammable liquid that is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Long-term exposure to benzene has been linked to serious health issues such as leukemia, bone marrow damage, and immune system suppression.

Benzene is not intentionally added to deodorant formulas. Instead, it often appears due to contamination during manufacturing or from impurities in propellants used in spray products.

2. Increased Regulatory Oversight

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with independent labs and consumer safety organizations, has ramped up testing of personal care products, leading to more recalls based on safety and compliance violations.

3. Consumer Reports and Complaints

An increase in consumer-reported issues such as rashes, breathing problems, and skin irritation has triggered further investigations. When a pattern emerges in these reports, regulators often respond with product testing and potential recalls.Determined African businessman expressing opinions to junior and senior colleagues on management team in conference room.

The Power Stick Deodorant Recall: What You Need to Know

One of the most notable cases in 2025 was the Power Stick deodorant recall. Known for being a low-cost deodorant brand available in dollar stores and discount retailers across the U.S., Power Stick deodorant is popular among budget-conscious shoppers. However, this brand came under fire when several of its aerosol products tested positive for benzene.

Recalled Power Stick Products Include:

• Power Stick Cool Blast Body Spray

• Power Stick Intensity Aerosol Deodorant

• Power Stick Fresh Mist Spray

Reason for Recall:
Routine lab testing and third-party analyses identified elevated levels of benzene in these spray deodorants. While the company behind Power Stick stated that only specific batches were affected, they initiated a voluntary recall to prevent potential harm to consumers.

The Power Stick deodorant recall is significant because it highlights how even low-cost, widely distributed brands are not exempt from quality control failures or manufacturing mishaps.

Other Deodorants Recalled in 2025

While Power Stick is a key focus, it is not the only brand involved. Other notable deodorants recalled this year include:

• Suave 24-Hour Protection Aerosol Deodorants: Recalled due to potential benzene contamination.

• Old Spice and Secret Sprays (Procter & Gamble): Recalled after additional batches tested positive for unsafe benzene levels.

• Tag Body Spray: Recalled for both benzene presence and labeling errors.

• Equate Spray Deodorants (Walmart Brand): Recalled over low-level benzene detection and mislabeling of ingredients.

These widespread recalls illustrate that the problem extends across various price points, manufacturers, and retail channels.

How to Know If Your Deodorant Was Recalled

Consumers can protect themselves by taking the following steps:

1. Check the FDA Recall Database

Visit the official FDA recalls page to find updated information about current deodorant recalls.

2. Examine Product Labels

Look for the lot number, manufacturing date, and expiration date on your deodorant container. Compare this information with the data provided in official recall notices.

3. Stop Using the Product

If your deodorant matches the details of a deodorant recall, discontinue use immediately—even if you haven’t experienced symptoms. Long-term exposure can cause cumulative harm.

4. Contact the Manufacturer

In most cases, brands offer refunds, exchanges, or replacement products. Reach out to the company’s customer service with your product details.

Health Risks of Benzene in Deodorants

Benzene exposure can occur through inhalation, skin absorption, or ingestion. In the case of aerosol deodorants, the primary concern is inhalation and direct skin contact. Prolonged or repeated exposure can increase the risk of:

• Leukemia (particularly acute myeloid leukemia)

• Bone marrow damage

• Immunosuppression

• Dizziness and headaches

• Skin irritation or burns

Even though the levels of benzene found in some recalled deodorants may be low, the FDA and CDC agree that no level of benzene is considered completely safe in personal care products.

What Should You Do If You’ve Used a Recalled Deodorant?

If you’ve been using Power Stick deodorant or another product that’s been recalled, here’s what to do:

1. Stop Using It Immediately

2. Dispose of It Safely – Follow local hazardous waste disposal rules.

3. Monitor Your Health – Watch for symptoms like rashes, dizziness, or fatigue. Contact your doctor if you experience ongoing health issues.

The Future of Deodorant Safety

The spike in deodorants recalled has opened a broader conversation about product safety, manufacturing standards, and consumer awareness. Manufacturers are now under greater pressure to:

• Improve quality control

• Test for potential contaminants

• Provide transparent labeling

• Respond swiftly to consumer complaints

Regulators, too, are taking a more proactive role by conducting random product testing and issuing recalls when safety thresholds are breached.

Conclusion

The growing number of deodorant recalls in 2025 — including the Power Stick deodorant recall — highlights the urgent need for vigilance in the personal care industry. From benzene contamination to labeling mistakes, the reasons these deodorants were recalled serve as a clear warning for both manufacturers and consumers alike.

At StreakBlogs, we believe staying informed is key to making safe and smart choices. Whether you use a premium product or a budget-friendly option like Power Stick deodorant, it’s important to regularly check recall alerts, read ingredient labels, and pay close attention to any skin reactions or health changes. Informed consumers are empowered consumers.