How it Works

The Proactiv system is designed to be used the same way, in the same order each day, morning and night. Beginning with the Proactive Cleanser, the tiny beads in the product exfoliate dead skin cells and remove impurities from the skin. The next step is the Revitalizing Toner which works to soothe the skin following exfoliation and prepares pores for the lotion. The final step is the Repairing Lotion. The user applies the lotion after the toner has dried completely, and the lotion is supposed to heal blemishes and prevent future eruptions.

Because skin types and acne conditions vary from person to person, it is unlikely that Proactiv’s system will cure all. People with sensitive skin will likely experience a reaction to the prescription grade benzoyl peroxide, which is the key ingredient in both the cleanser and repairing lotion. It might be a better plan for a person with sensitivities to try one or the other, rather than both benzoyl peroxide-containing products, but because they are sold as a kit, this is difficult.

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Renewing Cleanser include ground apricot pits to create the beads for exfoliation, as well as the 2.5 % benzoyl peroxide and other inactive ingredients. A primary concern with this ingredients list is the rather rough ground apricot pits that can be too harsh for more sensitive skin types. One should utilize caution when applying the cleanser to the skin so as not to tear or irritate the skin’s surface with the beads.

The Revitalizing Toner is alcohol free and contains witch hazel, water and some flower and fruit extracts. The fragrance of the toner is somewhat strong and may be a problem for sensitive skin, especially those who experience problems with fragranced products.

Benzoyl peroxide makes the list again in the Repairing Lotion; Proactive identifies it as milled, prescription-grade. There are other chemicals rounding out the ingredients, causing some concern about the harshness of the lotion.

Conclusion

Proactive has gone a long way based on celebrity endorsements, which have played the most significant role in making it a top seller. A quick look at consumer reviews reveals many unsatisfied customers who feel the system is ineffective and the price too high. Of course, there are some who have experienced positive results through Proactiv, but rarely are these individuals who have sensitive skin issues. Overall, Proactiv will continue to be a popular acne treatment.

Tags: Acne Treatment , Acne  Treatments , Acne Treatments That Work, Proactiv, Proactiv Solution