Sunscreen lawsuits: Things you need to know!

As more people discover the risks of sun exposure, the demand for sunscreens soar. However, some brands and products have been under the scanner for containing benzene. Numerous separate lawsuits and class actions have been initiated against Johnson & Johnson, which had to recall five of its brand products. For the initiated, benzene is an industrial chemical that is also a known human carcinogen. Lab tests done by Valisure – a known independent pharmaceutical testing company – found that more than 40 different sunscreen and after-sun care products contain unacceptable amounts of benzene. In this post, we are sharing more on the sunscreen lawsuit

What do these sunscreen lawsuits claim?

All sunscreen lawsuits state that the brands and manufacturers produced and sold defective products and failed to warn the public about the possible risks and levels of benzene. As of now, a bunch of law firms have started to accept separate sunscreen lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson, while many firms have initiated class action. The brands mentioned in these lawsuits are Aveeno and Neutrogena. The lawsuits also allege negligence on behalf of Johnson & Johnson, which caused economic damages to plaintiffs. 

 Has Johnson & Johnson taken any action?

Johnson & Johnson voluntarily recalled five of its products (under brand names NEUTROGENA and AVEENO) on June 14, 2020. Products that have been recalled include Neutrogena Beach Defense¸ Neutrogena Cool Dry Sport, Neutrogena Invisible Daily, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer, and Aveeno Protect + Refresh. 

Do I have a valid lawsuit?

If you have used any of the recalled sunscreens and have been diagnosed with cancer (particularly leukemia), you may have a valid sunscreen lawsuit. The good news is many law firms are offering free initial consultation for prospective clients, so you can always consider meeting an attorney to know more. Every case is unique and must be evaluated on its own merit. 

What’s happening with these lawsuits?

In some states, such as Florida, class action has been initiated against Johnson & Johnson. Some firms are accepting individual lawsuits, like we mentioned before, which are eventually likely to join a federal multi-district litigation, or MDL. With multi-district litigation, it is possible to accelerate the litigation process, as the judge will hear a few bellwether cases, which will set the tone for settlement. 

Lawyers are taking sunscreen lawsuits on a contingency fee. Until you win a financial settlement, the lawyer wouldn’t ask for a fee. Don’t delay in calling an attorney, if you believe in your case.