About the Proactiv Skin Care System

Overview

Proactiv is marketed as "The #1 Acne Solution in the World." It was developed by Drs. Katie P. Rodan and Kathy Fields. Proactiv is designed to be applied to the entire acne-prone area, not just acne blemishes, and as of 2009 comes with a money-back guarantee after a 60-day trial.

Parts

Proactiv consists of three separate products: An oil-free, exfoliating, deep cleaning cleanser with prescription-grade bezoyl peroxide, an alcohol-free toner that helps unplug clogged pores and remove excess oil from the skin, and a skin-clearing lotion with more prescription-grade benzoyl peroxide that helps heal blemishes and prevent more from developing.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in the cleanser and repairing lotion is benzoyl peroxide 2.5 percent. Inactive ingredients include water, methylparaben, propylparaben, propylene glycol, polyethylene, botanical extracts and fragrance. The toner has no active ingredients, but does contain blue and yellow coloring (CI 42090 and 19140 respectively).

Use

All three Proactive products are meant to be used together, twice daily. In the morning, dampen your skin and massage a dime-sized amount of the cleanser into your skin for a minute or two. Rinse with warm water, pat dry, then apply the toner with a cotton ball. Let the toner dry on your skin, then spread a pea-sized amount of lotion over the treated skin and let it dry in place; don't rinse.

Side Effects

Proactive may cause increased sensitivity to sun, so if you're going outside, always apply sunscreen first. Other side effects to watch out for and consult your doctor about include skin irritation or sensitivity, dryness or peeling. The benzoyl peroxide in the cleanser and lotion may bleach towels and fabrics.

Warning

Don't use Proactiv if your skin is very sensitive or if you've demonstrated sensitivity to the active ingredient, benzoyl peroxide. Keep it away from your eyes, lips and mouth, and try to keep it away from your hair as it may have a bleaching effect. If you swallow any amount of the Proactiv products, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Benefits

The benefits promised in Proactiv marketing campaigns include clear, glowing, healthy skin, the disappearance and prevention of further acne blemishes.