FAQs
Have questions? Need help?
We've assembled this comprehensive set of Frequently Asked Questions to help you get the most out of your Proactiv journey
Who should use Proactiv?
Proactiv is for any teen or adult who struggles with blemish-prone skin, mild to moderate breakouts, and/or hormonal breakouts. Proactiv can be used by men and women. Proactiv takes advantage of the latest skincare science to help clear blemishes, working to prevent future breakouts and give you great skin again and again.
What are the Proactiv routines?
An innovator in skincare technology, Proactiv UK offers two different 3-step routines that take the guesswork out of treating blemishes. Each of these routines clear blemishes and help prevent future breakouts so you can reveal clear, healthy-looking skin.
- Our best-selling treatment routine, Proactiv Solution®, is formulated with glycolic acid and salicylic acid to help stop blemish-causing bacteria in its tracks and help prevent new breakouts from forming. Ideal for oily or combination skin this routine helps balance skin’s natural oils and moisture.
- Proactiv Gentle™ was developed for sensitive skin to clear mild blemishing and occasional breakouts. Formulated with proven blemish-clearing ingredients like mineral-derived sulphur and salicylic acid, and skin-loving ingredients like azelaic acid, chamomile and bakuchiol, this clean and gentle routine smooths and helps calm skin, while helping to clear blemishes. It’s also proactively formulated without parabens, phthalates, sulphates, cyclic silicones and 100+ no-no ingredients.
What active ingredients are in Proactiv?
Proactiv Solution contains:
- Glycolic Acid: an alpha hydroxy acid designed to exfoliate the skin and help to remove dirt, oil and sweat
- Salicylic Acid: a BHA that helps to remove dead skin cells, and keeps pores clear of blemish-causing impurities
Proactiv Gentle contains:
- Mineral-derived sulphur: gently washes away excess dirt and oil
- Hyaluronic acid: helps to hydrate, nourish and soothe the skin
- Azelaic acid: helps kill bacteria to prevent future breakouts
When should I use my Proactiv systems for the best overall results?
Your Proactiv systems should be used twice a day, morning and night. For all other Proactiv products, please refer to the instructions provided on the package.
Do I need to use all the steps with each use to get results with Proactiv?
Yes. It's important to use your Proactiv system as directed. The steps work synergistically, each building from the previous step. Continued daily treatment is necessary to prevent breakouts.
My skin is looking clear. Do I have to keep using Proactiv twice a day, every day?
If Proactiv is working, keep it up! There is no limit to the length of time you can use Proactiv. If you discontinue Proactiv, your blemishes are likely to return because the key causes of blemishes are hormonal and genetic. Teen breakouts last, on average, 5 to 7 years; adult breakouts can last 20-plus years.
Is Proactiv safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding?
If pregnant or breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant, ask a doctor before using Proactiv.
Does Proactiv have any side effects?
Side effects are usually mild and may include drying and irritation in some users. To test for an adverse reaction to your Proactiv system, apply the products to a small patch of affected skin during the first three days.
A small group of people may be hypersensitive or allergic to active ingredients such as salicylic acid which is in some of the Proactiv products. If you are one of those people, you should not use a product without first discussing use with your healthcare provider. For a full list of product ingredients, please refer to the product packaging.
Stop use and ask a doctor if irritation becomes severe, or you have symptoms of an allergic reaction (such as itching, rash, hives, swelling of the lips, eyelids, and shortness of breath).
Is Proactiv suitable for all ethnicities and skin-types?
Yes. Proactiv products are designed for blemish-prone skin. No matter your ethnicity or skin type – dry, oily, combination, normal or sensitive – Proactiv will have the right combination of products for you.
Can I use other skincare products while using Proactiv?
Yes, you can use other skincare products with most Proactiv products but please be mindful of a few very important issues. First, be certain that any product you apply to your skin is labelled "non-comedogenic" which means it is designed to not clog pores. Second, the Proactiv systems are designed to preclude the need for additional skincare products, such as an added moisturiser.
If I have a skin condition such as eczema, psoriasis or rosacea, can I use Proactiv?
If you suffer from a skin condition in addition to blemishes, we recommend talking with your skincare professional before trying any skincare treatments.
Is Proactiv designed to help treat my blemish scars?
No, unfortunately, Proactiv is not designed to help with existing scars. Our best recommendation for treating existing scars is to see your dermatologist. Thanks to advances in medicine and technology, your dermatologist can offer safe and effective options for your blemish scars.
If you have any further questions, please contact us here and we will be happy to help you.