The New Proactiv {Review}

What is it about infomercials that draw people in? Is it the fast pace or the upbeat host or the lure of the "If you call right now, we'll double your offer..." bargain? Or is it just the promise that this product will really do what they claim that it does that is so enticing to viewers? The thing that I always find myself wondering (aside from how I can talk my husband into realizing we need this amazing blender or juicer or mop or wall hooks) is if what they are saying is really true. Does it actually work?

Proactiv, the biggest name in acne treatment, has recently introduced an innovation (have you seen the commercials with the lovely Katy Perry and Avril Lavigne?) to their original formula by adding exclusive micro-crystal benzoyl peroxide. What does it do? This enables the new Proactiv Solution to absorb faster, penetrating into pores and combating acne quicker than ever before while leaving skin free of dryness or redness that often occurs with acne medications.

My skin has never been horrible... but it's never been fantastic either. From the time I was a teenager, I've tried a variety of different brands but still experienced breakouts so I was interested in seeing what the new Proactiv could do for me. Their Before-and-After Gallery shows men, women and teens of all ages that have found incredible results and, if you're not satisfied, they offer a full refund of the purchase price within 60 days. So, why not?


Proactiv is a 3-Step System applied to your face twice daily. Step 1: Renewing Cleanser. This oil-free, soap-free cleanser contains tiny exfoliating beads that gently work to rid your skin of any impurities that can clog your pores. I liked the way that I could feel the beads while I scrubbed my skin but that they weren't too harsh or scratchy. When rinsing the cleanser off, my face felt clean but not stripped or raw, which was nice.

I did note the warning to only use white towels after washing your face with Proactiv, as the benzoyl peroxide could bleach colored fabric - and hair! I, of course, completely ignored the message and found that the colors of my towels are still fully intact. My hair? Also the same color.

Step 2: Revitalizing Toner. This alcohol-free toner refines and purifies pores and exfoliates dead skin cells while soothing and hydrating your skin. Using a cotton ball, this toner felt cool and refreshing all over. Step 3: Repairing Treatment. This invisible medicated lotion features ultra-fine micro-crystal benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria and penetrate pores fast. I was amazed at just how thin and smooth this disappeared into my face and appreciated that my face didn't feel greasy nor dried out.

The steps are definitely simple and the results? Pretty impressive. Again, my face didn't look like the Before shot from the picture on the right, but it did seem a little clearer and my skin was definitely renewed after using Proactiv for a few weeks. One persistent weird spot on my nose that seemed to be lingering actually went away after having been there forever and I have Proactiv to thank for that.

Proactiv Solution has a complete line of products aside from their 3-Step System. Specially formulated for acne prone skin, they have created moisturizers, sunscreens, spot treatments and body washes to help complete your skin care routine. I was able to try the Green Tea Moisturizer (smells wonderful) and the Refining Mask and really liked how hydrated and clean my face felt afterward.

In the end, I was happy with the way that the new Proactiv stood up to my test. The combination of acne medication with premier skin-care ingredients did as was promised: unclog pores, kill acne-causing bacteria, soothe inflammation and condition your skin. The 3-Step System can be ordered directly off of their website and retails for $19.95 or the Proactiv Plus Deluxe System for $29.95.

(Other than the Proactiv System samples that I was sent, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this product and the possible results from it.)