15 Best Proactiv Products Of 2024, According To An Esthetician
Let these products handle your skin woes so you can solely focus on looking flawless.
Becky Sturm is a multi hyphenate beauty maven who has been in the salon and spa industry for 30+ years as a hairdresser, esthetician, as well as product development and product expert. After graduating in the HORST/Aveda Institute Advanced Training program in 1985, she went on to do an apprenticeship at The Red Carpet Salons for three years in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, and then 1 year at Regis Corporation.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Managing acne is easy when you have the best Proactiv products in your skincare bag. Acne affects 9.4% of the population worldwide (1), but it gets easier to manage acne with a better lifestyle and a Proactiv product. Proactiv is known as one of the best anti-acne brands in the US and worldwide. The Proactiv solutions not only fight acne but prevent breakouts as well. This 20-year-old brand can fight acne at various stages, thanks to its innovative Combination Therapy system and smart delivery technology. So, to fix your skin woes, keep reading more about these 15 Proactiv products that are listed below.
In This Article
15 Best Proactiv Products Available Right Now
1. Best Acne Remedy: Proactiv Renewing Cleanser
If you are looking for a product that provides acne prevention, try the Proactiv Renewing Cleanser, a powerful acne-fighting solution that gently removes excess dirt, oil, and bacteria from your skin. This acne treatment contains micro-exfoliating beads and benzoyl peroxide that penetrates the pores and eliminates acne-causing bacteria. This cleanser-cum-exfoliator is formulated to reveal fresh new skin cells by removing dead skin cells. It does not dry out your skin as the hyaluronic acid in it helps in retaining the skin’s moisture.
Key Ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide
Skin Type: Oily and acne-prone skin
Pros
- Unclogs pores
- Dermatologist-tested
- Gently exfoliates the skin
- Refreshes the skin
- Lasts up to 2 months
Cons
- Contains parabens
"This cleanser removes impurities from my skin and reveals its natural tone. It soothes my irritated skin and boosts its moisture level. The formula fights bacteria and germs and prevents my skin from breaking out."
StyleCraze Says2. Best Hydrating: ProactivMD Deep Cleansing Face Wash
Proactiv MD Deep Cleansing Face Wash is a mild exfoliating cleanser that makes your skin smoother and brighter. It is non-medicated and contains hydrating agents like aloe vera that nourish the skin. This gentle cleanser is best suited for acne-prone or sensitive skin. It removes dirt, excess oil, germs, and dead skin cells. It helps in cell regeneration and turnover to reveal new skin cells. Regular use of this face cleanser will hydrate, smoothen, detox, and rejuvenate your skin. Here’s a review video to help you get a better understanding of the product and the reviewer’s experience.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera and jojoba esters
Skin Type: Acne-prone and sensitive skin
Pros
- Deeply cleanses the skin
- Exfoliates the skin
- Hydrates the skin
- Smoothens the skin
- Non-comedogenic
- Unscented
- Dermatologically tested
Cons
- Contains phenoxyethanol
3. Best pH-Balancing: Proactiv Revitalizing Toner
Proactiv Revitalizing Toner helps you get soft, smooth, and supple skin that is hydrated and even-toned. It contains glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is an excellent exfoliator. This toner also contains an anti-inflammatory ingredient, chamomile which soothes the skin, and an acne-fighting ingredient, witch hazel that helps in treating acne and controlling sebum production. Thus, this toner helps in clearing oil, debris, and other impurities from clogged pores. It has hydrating botanical extracts such as allantoin, panthenol, and aloe vera that moisturize the skin. This alcohol-free toner gently exfoliates dead skin cells and balances the pH of the skin. A 6 oz. bottle lasts 3 months!
Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, aloe vera, chamomile, allantoin, witch hazel, and panthenol
Skin Type: Acne-prone skin
Precaution: Avoid exposing your skin to the sun immediately after using this toner as glycolic acid can make it photosensitive and prone to sunburn. Do not forget to apply sunscreen after using this toner.
Pros
- Balances sebum production
- Alcohol-free
- Gently exfoliates the skin
- Moisturizes the skin
- Unclogs pores
Cons
- Contains parabens
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 2,843 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
4. Best For Preventing Blackheads: Proactiv Deep Cleansing Body Wash
This salicylic acid-based body wash from Proactiv is gentle and effective. It exfoliates dead skin cells and deeply cleanses the pores. It helps in refining pores and clearing blemishes, blackheads, whiteheads, and acne scars, which results in an even skin tone and texture. This anti-blemish product also prevents the occurrence of future breakouts as it keeps your pores free from dirt, excess oil, product build-up, bacteria, and dead skin cells. This body wash removes dull and dead skin to reveal soft, refreshed, and acne-free radiant skin. It does not leave your skin feeling dry or tight like most cleansers. Many reviewers have attested to these facts after testing the product.
Key Ingredients: 2% salicylic acid
Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone skin
Pros
- Lightens blemishes
- Controls sebum production
- Prevents blackheads
- Unclogs pores
- Removes dead skin
Cons
- Does not have a pump dispenser
5. Best For All Skin Types: Proactiv Skin Purifying Mask
Proactiv Skin Purifying Mask contains medicated sulfur that helps in managing different types of acne. This detoxifying mask also contains kaolin clay which cleanses the pores and absorbs excess oil and shine. It helps in refining pores and clearing blemishes and acne scars, which results in an even skin tone and texture. This deep cleansing mask contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that soothe irritated skin. It is enriched with botanical extracts that nourish and hydrate your skin, leaving it soft and supple. The ingredients in this mask are potent, so it should not be used more than 3 times a week. You can also use it as an overnight spot treatment to zap pimples or prevent all-over breakouts. Need more information about this acne solution? Watch this video to make an informed decision about the product and the reviewer’s experience.
Key Ingredients: 6% sulfur and kaolin clay
Skin Type: All skin types
Pros
- Soothes irritated skin
- Can be used as a spot treatment
- Prevents skin damage
- Controls shine
- Prevents future breakouts
Cons
- Contains phenoxyethanol
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 283 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
6. Best For Dry Skin: Proactiv Green Tea Moisturizer
Proactiv Green Tea Moisturizer is everyone’s favorite lightweight moisturizer! It is perfect to use under makeup as it is rich in hydrating ingredients and emollients such as hyaluronic acid, squalane, vitamin E, and glycerine. This advanced formula alleviates dryness and rejuvenates dull skin by replenishing and locking in moisture in the skin cells. Its non-greasy formula ensures that this moisturizer does not clog pores. The star ingredient of this moisturizer is green tea. It is rich in antioxidants that fight free radicals and repair dull and damaged skin. They also protect the skin from sun damage and photoaging. This repairing lotion soothes inflamed and irritated skin.
Key Ingredients: Green tea and hyaluronic acid
Skin Type: Blemish-prone, dry skin
Precaution: If you are stepping outside, apply a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher after using this moisturizer.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Lightweight
- Hydrates the skin
- Rejuvenates dull skin
- Non-comedogenic
- Soothes the skin
Cons
- Contains parabens
StyleCraze Says7. Best All-Round Care: Proactiv Re-texturizing Toner
Proactiv Re-texturizing Toner contains glycolic acid and salicylic acid – powerful exfoliators that remove dead skin cells, dirt, excess oil, bacteria, and makeup build-up from the pores. This minimizes the appearance of pores and reveals smoother and brighter skin that is soft and supple. This toner does not contain oil that can clog pores or alcohol that can dry out the skin. It has witch hazel, a mild astringent that balances oil production and helps in decongesting clogged pores. This toner also contains antioxidants, vitamins E and C, and omega fatty acids from the nutrient-rich purslane that nourish, repair, and soothe the skin. Incorporating this Proactiv balancing toner into your skin care regimen will improve your overall skin texture. It works best with the Proactiv+ skin care line.
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, witch hazel, and purslane extracts
Skin Type: All skin types
Precaution: Avoid exposing your skin to the sun immediately after using this toner as glycolic acid can make your skin photosensitive to the sun and prone to sunburn. Do not forget to use sunscreen after using this toner to protect your skin.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Prevents skin damage
- Improves skin texture
- Unclogs pores
- Balances sebum production
- Exfoliates the skin
- Dermatologist-tested
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Contains phenoxyethanol
"This toner removes dirt and excess sebum from my skin and refreshes its look. It smoothes my skin and reduces the appearance of my pores. It does not trigger my breakouts. It also never dries out my skin or causes itchiness."
8. Best For Exfoliation: Proactiv Deep Cleansing Brush
Proactiv Deep Cleansing Brush is specifically designed for acne-prone skin. It has a large head, soft tapered bristles, a comfortable grip, and 2 speed settings (high and low). This brush is gentle and offers 360° rotation that provides thorough cleaning. It helps in eliminating dirt, dead skin cells, and other impurities from the pores without irritating the skin. This deep cleansing brush is more effective than your hands. It offers gentle exfoliation that helps in getting soft, smooth, and glowing skin. This pore-targeting treatment can also be used in the shower as it is water-resistant.
Skin Type: All skin types
Precaution: Avoid the delicate eye area.
Pros
- Deeply cleanses the skin
- Water-resistant
- Does not irritate the skin
- Soft bristles
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Average-quality motor
9. Best For Skin Brightening: ProactivMD Balancing Toner
Proactiv MD Balancing Toner controls the oil and moisture levels in the skin as it contains active ingredients like witch hazel and aloe vera. This alcohol-free formula balances the pH of your skin and controls shine. It ensures that your skin is well-hydrated. It also helps in keeping your skin clean by removing impurities and germs. It helps in improving the texture of the skin as it reduces the appearance of pores. This balancing toner helps in getting a brighter complexion. Its regular use will keep your skin fresh and revitalized.
Key Ingredients: Witch hazel, aloe vera, and glycerin
Skin Type: Oily and acne-prone skin
Pros
- Balances the skin’s pH
- Moisturizes the skin
- Controls oil
- Brightens the skin
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- Contains parabens
"My skin looks clear and radiant after I use this toner. It treats inflammation in my skin and restores the natural moisture barrier. I like that it neither clogs my pores nor triggers breakouts. It leaves my skin looking hydrated."
10. Best Lightweight: ProactivMD Daily Oil Control SPF 30
ProactivMD Daily Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30 is great for acne-prone skin. It is gentle, lightweight, and spreads evenly on the skin. This fragrance-free 3-in 1 moisturizer controls shine. This dermatologically developed and tested product protects the skin from harmful the UVA/UVB rays with broad spectrum SPF 30. Thus, it also helps in fighting against photoaging and sunburn. This Proactiv daily oil-control SPF product does not clog pores. It gets absorbed by the skin easily to give a long-lasting matte finish that controls shine.
Key Ingredients: Avobenzone (3%), Octisalate (5%), and Octocrylene (7%)
Skin Type: Acne-prone skin
Pros
- Broad spectrum SPF 30
- Lightweight
- Hydrates the skin
- Matte finish
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologically tested
Cons
- Greasy
"What I like the most about this moisturizer is that it absorbs nicely into my skin. It feels lightweight and hydrating. My skin looks smooth and feels soft to the touch. It strengthens my skin barrier and enhances my skin’s brightness."
11. Best For Minimizing Pores: Proactiv Revitalizing Toner
Proactiv Revitalizing Toner contains glycolic acid that clears the skin as it gently exfoliates dead skin cells. This alcohol-free toner is rich in botanical extracts such as chamomile, aloe, panthenol, and allantoin that nourish the skin. It helps in balancing the oil and pH levels of the skin, leaving it supple and even-toned. It also minimizes the appearance of pores by removing excess surface oil and dead skin cells and keeps the skin healthy. This gentle skincare toner also helps in soothing redness and irritation on the skin.
Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid and aloe vera
Skin Type: Acne-prone skin
Pros
- Exfoliates the skin
- Balances the skin’s pH
- Controls shine
- Softens the skin
- Imparts a radiant glow
- Hydrates the skin
Cons
- Contains parabens
"What I like the most about this toner is that it shrinks my pores. It restores my skin’s natural pH level and improves its texture. The formula adds a natural shine to my face. It never leaves residues."
12. Best For Fading Acne Marks: Proactiv+ Mark Correcting Pads
Proactiv+ Mark Correcting Pads are designed for a single use. This set of 15 pads helps in removing impurities, fading acne scars, and removing dead skin cells so that your skin looks youthful and radiant in a quick swipe. These pads also help in minimizing the appearance of enlarged pores, fine lines, and wrinkles. The antioxidants found in the green tea extract protect, soothe, and repair the skin. This acne product offers an easy and convenient way to exfoliate and cleanse your skin. These pads help in clearing blemishes, balancing the skin’s pH, and controlling oil. Use this blemish control product once a week to get rid of dull and lifeless skin.
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid and glycolic acid
Skin Type: Acne-prone skin
Pros
- Fades acne marks
- Prevents skin damage
- Balances the skin’s pH
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Improves skin tone
Cons
- Contains alcohol
13. Best Moisturizing: Proactiv Amazonian Clay Mask
Proactiv Amazonian Clay Mask deep cleanses the skin as it draws out impurities, dirt, and excess oil from the pores. This luxurious mask is formulated with natural and mineral-rich bentonite clay and kaolin clay that exfoliate the pores, leaving you with clearer skin. The hydrating ingredients in it – such as shea butter, cucumber oil, and avocado oil – nourish the skin. Thus, this mask does not leave your skin feeling dry or tight.
Key Ingredients: Bentonite clay, kaolin clay, avocado oil, shea butter, and virgin cucumber oil
Skin Type: Sensitive and acne-prone skin
Precaution: If you are stepping outside, apply a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher after using this mask.
Pros
- Unclogs pores
- Exfoliates the skin
- Moisturizes the skin
- Natural ingredients
Cons
- May cause breakouts initially
14. Best For Eliminating Redness: Proactiv Redness Relief Serum
Proactiv Redness Relief Serum is formulated with bisabolol and a moisturizing complex to soothe inflamed skin. It has a cooling effect and helps in relieving the pain caused by acne pustules. This serum also nourishes and protects your skin with active ingredients like green tea and chamomile extracts, leaving you with soft and smooth skin. It also reduces the appearances of redness and inflammation on irritated skin.
Key Ingredients: Bisabolol, green tea extract, chamomile extract, and hyaluronic acid
Skin Type: Sensitive and acne-prone skin (red or inflamed skin)
Pros
- Soothes inflamed skin
- Moisturizes the skin
- Reduces redness
- Paraben-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- May cause mild irritation
"I love that this serum cools down my skin and reduces redness. It treats my acne and fades acne scars. My skin looks moisturized and smooth after I use this serum. It does not clog my pores or make my skin greasy."
15. Best Gentle: Proactiv Cleansing Wipes
Proactiv Cleansing Wipes are handy and effective at removing makeup without drying out your skin. They instantly remove foundation, lipstick, and mascara. These sulfate-free cleansing wipes also remove dirt, oil, and grime from the skin. They are infused with the moisturizing and brightening extracts of aloe vera and pomegranate that hydrate and nourish your skin. These wipes are gentle and do not leave your skin feeling “tight.”
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, acai berry, and pomegranate extracts
Skin Type: All skin types
Pros
- Moisturizes the skin
- Brightens the skin
- No rinsing required
- Sulfate-free
- Gentle on the skin
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologically tested
Cons
- Expensive
"These wipes feel soft against my skin. They remove impurities from my skin and leave it looking clear and healthy. They do not leave white residues on my skin or irritate it. I often use these wipes to remove my makeup. I love how quickly it breaks down the mascara from my lashes."
Infographic: Key Ingredients In Proactiv Products To Get Healthy Skin
Proactiv products offer effective acne solutions, treat surfacing blemishes, and reduce the chances of breakouts to make your skin look clearer, brighter, and healthier. The products draw their power from their effective blend of premium ingredients. In the infographic below, we have curated a list of 8 key ingredients in Proactiv products and their benefits. Have a look. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Acne is an inevitable skin concern for most people around the globe. It can also cause a hindrance to your self-esteem. But when you have the right product at your side, you can combat even the worst. Proactiv brand products are known best to combat acne and stubborn breakouts. They offer various skin care products like cleansers, toners, face washes, body washes, and more. Our product selections from this acne skin care line help exfoliate, hydrate, refresh, and moisturize the skin. The Proactiv Renewing Cleanser sloughs off dead skin cells to reveal glowing skin while the Proactiv Revitalizing Toner controls excess oil and balances the pH level of the skin. The Proactiv Skin Purifying Mask clears blemishes and prevents future breakouts. These products keep the skin intact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Proactiv products good?
Yes, Proactiv products are good since they treat acne and prevent outbreaks. They even offer specially designed treatments like the Proactiv 3-step system for acne. These skincare kits contain cleansing, toning, and repairing solutions that claim to clear acne in 90 days.
Can I use Proactiv products while pregnant?
Yes, Proactiv products are safe during pregnancy. However, always consult a doctor before using a product to avoid health complications.
Can Proactiv products cause more acne?
No, Proactive will not lead to acne. Instead, the Proactiv acne prevention products will help treat acne and reduce breakouts.
Do Proactiv products remove dark spots?
Yes, Proactiv products contain glycolic and salicylic acids that help promote even skin tone and act as effective dark spot correctors.
How long does it take Proactiv products to clear your face?
Everyone’s skin is unique, so it may take some individuals longer than others to get results. However, typically it takes four to six weeks to notice visible results. It may take up to eight weeks for people with severe acne to benefit from Proactiv clear skin products.
How many times a week should I use Proactiv?
You can apply Proactiv daily, once in the morning and once before bed.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skincare coach. To assist her readers in picking the best Proactiv products given their impressive benefits, she conducted thorough research and compiled a list of them. Proactiv is considered the best anti-acne brand in the US and worldwide. These listed items can combat acne and protect your skin from breakouts.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- Tan, Jerry KL, and K. Bhate. “A global perspective on the epidemiology of acne.” British Journal of Dermatology 172 (2015): 3-12.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/271021719_A_global_perspective_on_the_epidemiology_of_acne
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