Proactive solution was developed by dermatologists Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields. Proactive is marketed as being able to control the acne cycle before breakouts occur, resulting in clearer skin. Proactive uses a combination of medicine and skin care agents in its products; you may experience irritation or burning if your skin is sensitive or you are allergic to benzoyl peroxide. Always check the ingredients and consult your doctor if you experience any side effects from Proactive.
About Proactive Solution
Proactive solution consists of a three-step process. According to Proactive's website, the Renewing Cleanser uses small beads to unclog pores and should be used first. Step two is the Revitalizing Toner, which is used to balance skin tone and remove excess oil from your skin. Finally, the Repairing Treatment is applied to sink into pores and attack bacteria, heal existing blemishes and keep new ones from forming. Proactive states that all three products should be used consecutively for maximum results.
Main Ingredient
The main ingredient in each product of Proactive solution is benzoyl peroxide. According to Mayoclinic.com, benzoyl peroxide is a topical acne treatment used in many over-the-counter acne products; it is used mainly to reduce acne-causing bacteria. It is this ingredient that may cause your skin to burn or sting when first used.
Precautions
According to Mayoclinic.com, your skin may burn or become irritated during the first three weeks of using Proactive due to its use of benzoyl peroxide as the main ingredient. Because of this, your skin may appear to be getting worse before any improvement is noticed. If you don't see an improvement in your skin within four to six weeks, or if your skin continues to burn and show signs of irritation, contact your health care professional. It's possible that you could you be allergic to benzoyl peroxide, or your skin is simply too sensitive to adapt to the medication.
Side Effects
Users of Proactive solution report various side effects from the medication, many of which are due to benzoyl peroxide. According to the Customer Care section of Proactive's website, you may notice that your skin sunburns easily while using Proactive. This is because the ingredients used in Proactive increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun; always wear sunscreen of at least SPF 15 before you go outside.
Also, Mayoclinic.com reports that side effects of benzoyl peroxide alone can include skin irritation, burning, blistering, itching or swelling.
Proper Use
Apply Proactive solution to your skin before applying any sunscreen or makeup so that the benzoyl peroxide can seep into your pores. According to Mayoclinic.com, you should not wash your skin after using products containing benzoyl peroxide for at least one hour. Also, avoid using any other topical acne treatment at the same time as Proactive solution to avoid further irritating the skin.
If you experience burning or pain, try using Proactive solution every other day, or only a few days per week, rather than every day. This will help your skin build up a tolerance to the medication.
