How to Use Proactiv Effectively

Can I use Proactiv^® Solution products on my body as well as my face? Do breakouts on other parts of the body cause breakouts on the face?

Yes, you can use Proactiv^® Solution on any acne blemish-prone area. If you are particularly prone to body acne, you may want to visit the Body Care section of our ActivMember™ Catalog – we have developed a special line of products for body acne. We created the Deep Cleansing Wash, Clear Zone Body Pads and Clear Zone Body Lotion specifically for the body.

Body acne is the result of the same factors that lead to facial acne. It’s also known to be aggravated by heat, moisture and direct irritation from tight-fitting clothes or equipment while exercising or playing sports.

Tips for body acne

Always wear loose-fitting cotton clothes while exercising and shower immediately after when possible. When you are physically active, heat and moisture are trapped against your skin, creating a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.

Your face and back are independent areas of the body. Proactiv^® Solution will only work in the areas to which it is applied. It will not affect areas that are not in contact with Proactiv^® Solution. However, body acne blemishes can be more resistant. Please seek the help of a dermatologist if the acne on the body worsens after use of our deep cleansing wash.

Do I need to moisturise?

It is important to keep all skin types hydrated for a healthy appearance. The right moisturiser will not aggravate acne or increase oiliness. In fact, it can actually improve the look and texture of your skin. Even oily skin can become dry and flaky on the surface. Look for one that is oil-free and non-comedogenic, which means it won't clog pores. Some moisturisers also contain acne-fighting medications such as salicylic acid to help exfoliate dead skin and brighten your complexion.Try our Oil Free Moisture with SPF 15 for daytime or Green Tea Moisturizer and Clarifying Night Cream for nighttime treatment.

Why and when should I use the Oil Free Moisture with SPF 15?

Our Oil Free Moisture with SPF 15 is designed to keep acne-prone skin healthy and hydrated. Advanced moisturising agents soothe and soften without clogging pores, and our formula has oil-absorbing properties for all-day freshness. Directions: Apply to clean face and neck at least once daily. May be used following the Repairing Treatment (allow to dry).

How to use Proactiv^® Solution with other acne medications

In general, it's fine to use Proactiv^® Solution with other acne medications. As with all medications, however, we strongly recommend consulting your doctor before combining.

How to use Proactiv to control breakouts around the mouth

Fluoride toothpaste is known for causing breakouts around the mouth area. One suggestion would be to use baking soda or Fluoride-free toothpaste. We also suggest using the Refining Mask more frequently to help resolve this issue.

Why is the dosage for Sheer Tint Moisture so small?

It is a metered dosage so that the customer can apply a sheer, medium, or heavy coverage, depending on the desired application.

Will the Refining Mask leave dark spots if left on overnight?

This may happen in cases where there is excessive drying or irritation to the skin.

When do I use the Refining Mask?

Always start with a clean face, before applying the Mask. Follow with Toner and Repairing Treatment. The mask can be used with or without the Proactiv^® Solution system and makes an excellent overnight spot treatment.

Can I use a different lotion, instead of Repairing Treatment and still use the system effectively?

No, you may not see the same results by altering the system. We recommend applying a moisturiser over the Repairing Treatment, preferably an SPF15 or higher, if going outside.

If you use the night cream & Skin Lightening Lotion in what order would you apply them?

In the evening, a thin layer of Skin Lightening Lotion would be applied to the blemished area first, followed by a moisturiser. Likewise in the daytime, Skin Lightening Lotion would be applied first, followed by a Sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher.

Should I discontinue use of Proactiv^® Renewing Cleanser, when you begin to use Deep Cleansing Wash?

No. Deep Cleansing Wash may be used for both face and body and is formulated with Salicylic Acid instead of benzoyl peroxide . Both ingredients are used for treating acne, however, the core 3-Step System is formulated with benzoyl peroxide because it contains an anti-bacterial agent. As a suggestion, use the Renewing Cleanser in the morning and the Deep Cleansing Wash at night, (or vice versa).

Is Proactiv^® safe to use when tanning in a tanning salon?

Benzoyl peroxide can make the skin more sensitive to the sun and tanning beds. We recommend you consult your doctor if you have questions or concerns in this respect.

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.

Can makeup make me breakout?

Some makeup can include ingredients that are comedogenic (acne-causing) or other substances that are known to clog pores and can lead to acne.

Tips for this problem

Even makeup advertised as oil-free or non-comedogenic may cause acne if you wear it in inappropriate situations such as exercising or perspiring. Be sure to remove all makeup before you exercise and before you go to sleep.Better yet, use medicated makeup that helps fight acne while also giving you the coverage you need.

What makeup is recommended for use with Proactiv^® Solution products?

We recommend wearing products that are non-comedogenic and oil-free. Try to avoid wearing make-up during strenuous exercise and avoid makeup with fragrances. For exciting makeup offers and tips, visit http://www.Proactivsolution.ca or check out our ActivMember™ catalog.

Are there any Proactiv^® products that safely remove eye & lip makeup?

Yes. Our Makeup Removing Cloths are safe, gentle and non-medicated. You can use them all over the face, even around the delicate eye area to prep the skin for the 3-Step System.

What if I am concerned with Aging or Wrinkling?

Aging is inevitable for us all, but everyone ages differently. There are a variety of factors that can influence how aging will impact your skin. Some of them include your lifestyle, diet, heredity, stress levels and sun exposure.

Tips for this problem

While you can’t stop the aging process, you can fight the visible appearance of aging by using sunscreen and anti-aging skincare products. Be sure to use products specifically designed with acne-prone skin in mind.

What if I am concerned with Puffiness and/or Dark Circles Under the Eyes?

Not getting enough sleep is a major contributor to dark circles and puffy eyes.

Tips for this problem

A good night's sleep is the best way to achieve radiant eyes. Targeted products such as the Nourishing Eye Cream and the Replenishing Eye Serum are also great solutions.

What if I am concerned with Dandruff?

Dandruff often accompanies acne and is caused by excessive shedding of skin cells from the scalp. The scalp is usually oily, red or flaky.

Tips for this problem

Regularly give your scalp a vigorous massage while washing with a medicated dandruff shampoo containing zinc, tar or salicylic acid.

Why would I breakout from Proactiv^®?

If a breakout occurs when first using Proactiv^®, you may be sensitive to benzoyl peroxide . If this happens, stop using the system for two days and follow the directions that are provided with the product for conducting a skin patch test. When your skin begins to improve, resume with the Renewing Cleanser and Revitalising Toner daily. The Repairing Treatment should be used twice a week at night to slowly build a tolerance for benzoyl peroxide . Increase nightly usage of the Repairing Treatment, as tolerated. In all cases, if persistent redness or breakouts occur, stop using the product and consult your doctor.

Why has Proactiv^® Solution suddenly stopped working?

Acne is a cyclical problem that may last for many years with sudden flare-ups. Scientific studies have demonstrated that there is no bacterial resistance to benzoyl peroxide-- This means that the medications in Proactiv^® Solution should always continue to work. The active ingredients will not lose their effectiveness. It is important to use the 3-Step System every day (twice a day) to help prevent future breakouts. If you find that you’re still experiencing breakouts while using the system as directed, you may want to try the Proactiv^® Solution Advanced kit. If flare-ups continue, we suggest that you consult your doctor.

Why do I feel / see a film on my skin with using oil-free moisture?

The sunscreen in the formula is Titanium Dioxide. By nature of this ingredient, many people tend to see a slight “cast of color” that quickly dissipates.

We suggest continuing your skincare regimen as directed.

1. Use all 3 products twice per day, every day. We also recommend you add the Refining Mask to your routine. It contains sulphur, a proven acne-fighting ingredient that reaches deep into pores where acne begins. If your flare-ups continue or your acne increases, stop using the product and consult your dermatologist.
2. Continue your skincare regimen as directed. Use all 3 products twice per day, every day. We also recommend you add the Refining Mask to your routine. It contains sulphur, a proven acne-fighting ingredient that reaches deep into pores where acne begins. If your flare-ups continue or your acne increases, stop using the product and consult your dermatologist.

3. Choose a kit that meets your individual needs.
   Remember that your skin is unique. For optimum results, you should customize your kit to suit your skincare needs. The My Proactiv^® System targets specific concerns for improvement.

What if my skin feels too dry?

Although some people have naturally dry skin, other contributing factors include over-washing your face, using incorrect amounts of product or sensitivity to one or more product(s).

First, make sure you’re using the system as directed:

1. Wash your face with a dime-sized amount of Renewing Cleanser.
2. Apply a dime-sized amount of Revitalising Toner with a cotton ball/pad and allow to dry.
3. Follow with a pea-sized amount of Repairing Treatment and apply over entire face.

Still too dry? Consider adding a moisturiser, like the Oil Free Moisture with SPF 15 to your regimen. Use your Repairing Treatment only once per day and follow with a moisturiser.

What if it feels too strong for my skin?

Some people do have sensitive skin, however over-using your acne treatment system may make your skin sensitive and give you the impression the products are too strong.

First, make sure you’re using the system as directed:

1. Wash your face with a dime-sized amount of Renewing Cleanser.
2. Apply a dime-sized amount of Revitalising Toner with a cotton ball/pad and allow to dry.
3. Follow with a pea-sized amount of Repairing Treatment and apply over entire face.

If you're just starting out, stop for 2 days. Resume with the Renewing Cleanser and Revitalising Toner daily as directed and the Repairing Treatment every other night, gradually increase usage as tolerated. If any irritation persists, stop using the product and consult your doctor.

What if I still keep getting acne breakouts?

Acne is a cyclical condition, it's important to stay committed to your skincare regimen, whether your skin is clear or during a breakout.

First Things First (For best results, use the Proactiv^® system as directed every morning and night)

1. Wash your face with a dime-sized amount of Renewing Cleanser.
2. Apply a dime-sized amount of Revitalising Toner with a cotton ball/pad and allow to dry.
3. Follow with a pea-sized amount of Repairing Treatment and apply over entire face.

If you're just starting out, stop for 2 days. Resume with the Renewing Cleanser and Revitalising Toner daily as directed and the Repairing Treatment every other night, gradually increase usage as tolerated. If any irritation persists, stop using the product and consult your doctor.

Can Proactiv^® cause Wrinkles?

Proactiv^® Solution should not cause wrinkles. Wrinkles are caused primarily by sun exposure, facial expressions, and loss of facial fat. We suggest use of a good moisturiser such as the Oil-Free Moisture with SPF15, applied 5-10 minutes after applying the Repairing Treatment.

Can makeup make me breakout?

Some makeup can include ingredients that are comedogenic (acne-causing) or other substances that are known to clog pores and can lead to acne.

Tips for this problem
Even makeup advertised as oil-free or non-comedogenic may cause acne if you wear it in inappropriate situations such as exercising or perspiring. Be sure to remove all makeup before you exercise and before you go to sleep. Better yet, use medicated makeup that helps fight acne while also giving you the coverage you need.

What if I have too much product?

Make sure you're using your system correctly. Follow the instructions below every morning and night for consistently clear skin:

1. Wash your face with a dime-sized amount of Renewing Cleanser.
2. Apply a dime-sized amount of Revitalising Toner with a cotton ball/pad and allow to dry.
3. Follow with a pea-sized amount of Repairing Treatment and apply over entire face.

What if I run out of my products before the next shipment arrives?

It takes most people about 60 days to finish the products in the replenishment interval. However, if you find that you use them more quickly (or slowly) than expected, you can adjust the frequency of your deliveries to match your individual usage. Simply log in to your online account at http://www.proactivsolution.ca/login or call Customer Service at 1 (800) 887-2824.

What if my 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).