In Recent US History, This Is By Far The Worst FDA Deodorant Recall Ever Recorded

If your roll-on deodorant says "Power Stick," it's time to toss it — and potentially consider some top-rated deodorant alternatives. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) issued one of the biggest deodorant recalls in U.S. history in July, affecting 67,214 cases across the country. This includes Power Stick for Her PH Balanced Roll-On, Beauty & Skincare Power Stick, and Shave and Skincare Power Stick Invisible Protection Roll-On. And if you've ever wondered about the differences between antiperspirant and deodorant, these recalled Power Stick products were 2-in-one, aiming to stop sweat and fight odor. The recall remains ongoing at the time of writing.

If this brand sounds familiar, it could be because it's sold at major retailers or because this isn't its first time getting into trouble with the law. In 2016, the California Air Resources Board (ARB) sued the company, A.P. Deauville, because its Power Stick Screem 2 Deodorant Body Spray illegally contained high volatile organic compounds (HVOCs). A.P. Deauville was fined $36,000. This time, the massive recall was issued because the company failed to meet regulations laid out by the Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP).

The Power Stick recall notice doesn't provide a detailed reason, but it states that all products are Class II recalls. This means using the product "may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences," though the possibility of serious health issues is low (via the FDA). If you're worried, the first step would be to dispose of the product or return it to where you purchased it. You might receive a refund, though it's not guaranteed. After returning the product, visiting a doctor is a good idea to rule out any serious issues and gain peace of mind. This is even more important if you've felt ill recently.

While we don't know for certain what caused the recall, we know from the FDA that the company deviated from Current Good Manufacturing Practices, which means it didn't follow the legally required manufacturing and quality controls. This might be helpful information for your healthcare provider. If you previously used Power Stick and are now in the market for safe and trusted deodorants that are free of aluminum, phthalates, and talc, check out our roundup of safe body products that smell like summer to carry you through the cooler months.