Customer Care
About Proactiv Products
Proactiv Products - Questions and Answers
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Product Efficacy and Safety
How is New Proactiv® the same? How is it different?
The formula remains the same in Original Proactiv® and New Proactiv®. The key acne blemish-fighter is finely milled, pharmaceutical-grade benzoyl peroxide. In New Proactiv® the benzoyl peroxide is more refined–the original finely-milled particles have been made even tinier. Drs. Rodan and Fields, the developers of Proactiv® products, believe this new micro-crystal benzoyl peroxide medicine helps penetrate pores faster than before and likely will be gentler on the skin.
How do I switch from Original Proactiv® to New Proactiv® if I haven't already?
To switch to New Proactiv® call 1-800-887-2824 or log in to your My Account section to see the New Proactiv® kit suggested to replace your Original Proactiv® kit. Ultimately, it's your choice. If you are completely satisfied with your results using Original Proactiv®, that's great and you should stick with what works for you. There is no need to do anything-you'll keep receiving Original Proactiv® in your regular shipments.
Same price?
Yes. Whatever your choice, you're guaranteed the same low price and ActivMember™ Benefits such as the extended money-back guarantee, convenient, timely replenishment shipments at intervals you choose, and free 24/7 support from Proactiv® Skin Care Advisors.
How is Proactiv® Solution different from other acne products?
Unlike many "spot treatments" that fight acne blemishes one pimple at a time, Proactiv® Solution is a system, meant to be used on your entire face every day. Since acne is caused by a number of different factors, each of the products in our 3-Step System has a different function. Used together, our products help heal existing blemishes, unclog pores, attack bacteria, soothe skin, and help stop future breakouts. And best of all, Proactiv® Solution feels like luxurious skin care, not acne medication.
Is Proactiv® Health Canada approved?
Proactiv® Solution conforms to Health Canada guidelines.
How long before I see results with the Proactiv® Solution system?
Individual results will vary. Some people see results as early as 3 weeks, but on the average, visible results start within 6-8 weeks. Many of our customers find that a complete clearing of their complexion takes anywhere from 3-6 months. This is achieved through the recommended and consistent use (twice a day) of the system. There is no cure for mild to moderate acne, but it is controllable with continued daily use of products such as Proactiv® Solution.
Will I have the same product effectiveness if I use the products individually rather than as a system?
Proactiv® Solution was created for use as a system to produce optimum results.
Is there a recommended age?
The recommended age to begin using Proactiv® Solution is 12 years and older; however Proactiv® products have been shown to be effective for adolescent and adult acne breakouts. We recommend that you start slowly, by using the products every other day and to be sure to follow all directions and warnings that come with the product. However, if you are unsure, we suggest that you consult your doctor, before using the products.
Is Proactiv® non-comedogenic?
Proactiv® Solution products are tested for non-comedogenicity.
Is Proactiv® hypoallergenic?
No. However, many of our ingredients were selected due to their hypoallergenic properties.
Where should I keep Proactiv® Solution?
For best results, store at room temperature. It is very unlikely that refrigeration will increase longevity. As a general rule, Proactiv® Solution should not be exposed to extreme heat or cold temperatures, to preserve efficacy.
Is Proactiv® Solution safe for all ethnicities?
All skin types and nationalities have had success with Proactiv® Solution.
Does Proactiv® promote facial hair growth?
No, Proactiv® Solution is for the management of acne blemishes and it is not intended to promote hair growth.
Is Proactiv® listed in the doctors’ desk reference book or other professional journals?
At this time, Proactiv® Solution is not listed in the Doctors Desk Reference or other professional journals.
What research has been conducted for Proactiv® products?
This information is proprietary and is not available for distribution. We can say that Proactiv® Solution conforms to the strict guidelines set forth by the US FDA and Health Canada and that the research has shown that its main ingredient, benzoyl peroxide, is effective in helping existing blemishes to heal and to help prevent future blemishes from occurring.
Does Proactiv® Solution conduct animal testing?
No. We do not test the final products on animals.
Why do the body care products only come with Salicylic Acid and not benzoyl peroxide?
Benzoyl peroxide is known to bleach fabrics, while Salicylic Acid does not have that characteristic. With this in mind, a customer that uses benzoyl peroxide products on the body is taking a chance that their clothing or sheets may be damaged. If a customer chooses to use benzoyl peroxide on their body, we recommend that they sleep in old clothing or white t-shirts.
Are Proactiv® products made with animal-derived ingredients?
Our ingredients are supplied from around the world and until recently, manufacturers were not required to supply this data. Our Regulatory Group is constantly reviewing each and every ingredient to verify that there are no animal derivatives.
What type of fragrance is used in Proactiv®? Is it approved by RIFM?
The fragrance is a combination of 4–5 ingredients. Each ingredient is tested for allergic reaction and approved by the governing body of fragrance controls in the U.S. RIFM (Research Institute of Fragrance Materials) to confirm that the fragrance has low irritation potential.
Are any Proactiv® Solution products fragrance-free?
The following products are fragrance-free: Mild Exfoliating Peel, Make-up Removing Cloths, Oil Free Moisture, Sheer Finish Mattifying Gel, Replenishing Eye Serum, Nourishing Eye Cream, Sheer Tint Moisture, Pore Cleansing Solution (inside of the Pore Cleansing System), Clear Zone Body Pads, Compact Foundation, Pressed Powder, Loose Powder.
Are the Proactiv® products Gluten-free?
In accordance with the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association (CTFA), Gluten is listed as Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Gluten. This ingredient is not found in any Proactiv® products. We would still recommend that you consult your doctor, as a precautionary measure.
Is Proactiv® safe and effective if a person is in direct sunlight?
A sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15 is recommended when out in the sun and while using the Proactiv® Solution system. It should be applied over the Repairing Treatment.
Who manufactures Proactiv®?
Proactiv® Solution uses several U.S. FDA & Health Canada approved facilities to produce and distribute the products.
Do Dr. Rodan or Dr. Fields test the product?
The Product is tested by its distributor and supplier to ensure that our high quality is maintained. Drs. Rodan and Fields regularly recommend the products to patients in their practices.
Can I contact Drs. Rodan and Fields?
All Proactiv® Solution inquiries and comments are directed to Customer Service and if appropriate, forwarded to the doctors for review.
Can Propylene Glycol, which is used in the Repairing Treatment, aggravate acne?
No. The Repairing Treatment contains very low concentration levels of Propylene Glycol, well below the threshold.
Ingredients
Urea?
Urea is an end product of protein. Since proteins are sometimes found in urine, Urea can be found in urine. However, Urea is not derived from urine. It is scientifically composed from carbon dioxide and is commonly used as a moisturiser. For example, Diazolidinyl Urea and Imadazolidinyl Urea are preservatives, which are also scientifically composed.
Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic Acid, the smallest of the AHA molecules, is a natural fruit acid and thus is the most penetrating. Proactiv® Solution's Revitalising Toner contains Glycolic acid.
Propylene Glycol?
Propylene Glycol is a non-comedogenic (water based) ingredient. It functions as a humectant /skin-conditioning agent and is derived from yeast.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate?
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is used in some of the mildest facial cleansers on the market today. It’s even used in one of the mildest cleansers recommended by Dermatologists, and widely used in hospitals worldwide.
Methylparaben? Propylparaben?
Both ingredients are widely used in the cosmetic industry as preservatives to prevent bacteria from growing. Neither ingredient is wax based.
Propylene Glycol, Ceteareth-20 & Glyceryl Stearate?
These ingredients are all emulsifiers that help to absorb moisture into the skin. They are widely used in the cosmetic industry.
What is SD Alcohol 40-B?
SD Alcohol-40 is a topical anti-bacterial ingredient that is in the formula to dissolve surface oil, allowing the medication to penetrate to the pores.
Xantham Gum?
This ingredient is used as a thickener, to stabilize the formula in our Renewing Cleanser.
What is Magnesium Aluminum Magnesium?
Aluminum Silicate is known as a "suspending agent" which is important for the overall stability of the Proactiv® Solution Refining Mask. It also acts as an oil absorber.
What is Disodium Dimethicone Copolyol Sulfosuccinate?
A mild cleansing agent.
Triethanolamine (TEA)?
Triethanolamine is used as a surfactant (emulsifying agent), pH adjuster and as a fragrance ingredient.
What is Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate?
Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate is found in our Daily Oil Control to help regulate sebum.
What is Hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic Acid is one of the key ingredients in our Replenishing Eye Serum. It is synthetically derived to increase water retention in the skin.
What’s the difference between Rosa Canina Fruit Extract & Rosa Centifolia Flower Water?
They are both rose extracts from different manufacturers.
What’s the difference between Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract & Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract?
Both are chamomile extracts used as soothing agents. Matricaria is a German chamomile and Anthemis is a Roman Chamomile.
Are there any petro-chemicals in Proactiv®?
No.
Do any Proactiv® products contain human fetal tissue or derivatives?
No.
Are there Plant-Derived products in the Revitalising Toner and if so, are they farmed organically?
Yes. Rosewater, Allantoin, Aloe Vera, Chamomile. To our knowledge these plants are not grown organically.
Do Proactiv® products contain steroids?
No.
What is Cellex-C and is it used in Proactiv®?
Cellex-C is the name of a skin care brand. It's not an ingredient used in Proactiv® Solution.
What is the bead used in the Renewing Cleanser?
Polyethylene beads. They are not harsh, abrasive plant-based grains or ground apricot seeds. These smooth, tiny grains unclog pores and gently buff away oil, dirt and dead skin cells while helping pharmaceutical-grade benzoyl peroxide to penetrate beneath the surface of the skin.
What is Xantham Gum in the Renewing Cleanser?
This ingredient is used as a "thickener/stabilizer" in our Renewing Cleanser, like an emulsifier.
What is Disodium Dimethicone Copolyol Sulfosuccinate?
It is a mild cleansing agent.
What is the main ingredient in Daily Oil Control?
There is a blend of several encapsulated ingredients, combined with micro sponge technology. This process is designed to control excess oils. Oil is collected into tiny micro sponges and is washed away when the customer washes his/her face.
What is Cocamide DEA?
In the US, there is no known toxicity for this ingredient.
What percentage of glycolic acid is in the Revitalising Toner?
5%.
What percentage of Retinol is in the Clarifying Night Cream?
The Retinol percentage is less than 1%.
Is the SPF 15 in the Oil Free Moisture chemical free?
No.
Miscellaneous
Is the kit available in larger sizes?
The 3-piece kit was created to last about sixty days with average use, twice a day. At the present time we do not have plans to create larger sizes.
What is the pH of Proactiv® products?
The pH Balance in the Renewing Cleanser is 4.7-5.2; in the Revitalising Toner, 3.0-4.0; and in the Repairing Treatment, 4.7-5.2
See attached list for a full list of pH levels in Proactiv® Products.
What is the preservative level in Proactiv® products?
The preservative level in Proactiv® Solution products is less than 1%.
Can water quality affect the results from Proactiv®?
The quality of water should not affect your results with Proactiv Solution. However, we have not done any research or studies to support this statement.
Will the benzoyl peroxide in Proactiv® Solution bleach my towels or clothing?
Yes. As with all benzoyl peroxide products, you may find that Proactiv® Solution bleaches or discolors towels and fabrics. Make sure you wash your hands after applying Proactiv® Solution and allow skin to dry completely before pulling a shirt or sweater over your head.
Will the benzoyl peroxide in Proactiv® Solution cause my tattoos to fade?
No. But as with all benzoyl peroxide products, you may find that Proactiv® Solution bleaches or discolors towels and fabrics. Make sure you wash your hands after applying Proactiv® Solution and allow skin to dry completely before pulling a shirt or sweater over your head.
What if my Proactiv® products are frozen when delivered during the winter months?
The products are still good. We recommend that you allow the product to thaw out at room temperature before use. If you are not satisfied with the thawed products, please contact Customer Service at (800) 887-2824 for a replacement. We cannot guarantee that the product will not freeze again due to destination deliverability and length of time left in mail receptacle(s).



