I've been using this product on and off for several years. While I admit that it does work, it only works to a degree. Here's what you get in the 3 piece package:

* Renewing Cleanser (benzoyl peroxide scrub)
* Revitalizing Toner (glycolic acid)
* Repairing Lotion (benzoyl peroxide lotion)

The instructions tell you to use the system twice daily: Once in the morning and once in the evening. In my experiences using this product (at least on my skin), this usage schedule is too aggressive. For the first two weeks, it is ok to use this schedule to help initially begin clearing up the acne. Unfortunately, the skin gets 'used' to the product and the treatment becomes ineffective. The treatment schedule that comes with the system is designed to attack problem skin fast. Unfortunately, this usage schedule isn't meant for long term maintenance.

The idea behind the three products is this. The Renewing Cleanser uses scrubbing beads to exfoliate the skin and allow the benzoyl peroxide to penetrate into the pores to kill the bacteria. The Revitalizing toner (glycolic acid) further loosens dead skin cells to bring out the fresher skin and open pores further. The Repairing lotion, again, adds more benzoyl peroxide to finish off the routine by killing off any remaining bacteria and also moisturize the skin.

Unfortunately, the Repairing lotion may very well be comedogenic (plugs up pores). I've found that with regular use of this lotion, my acne seemed to get worse. And it may have actually been the combination of the toner and the lotion together. This lotion appears to contain some kind of waxy substance. If you let the lotion dry out, you'll see what I mean.

My usage schedule ended up being as follows:

* Renewing Cleanser (once every other day)
* Revitalizing Toner (only as needed)
* Repairing Lotion (rarely)

After reading information about some of the causes for acne, I found out that over moisturizing your skin can cause acne. It seems that the Repairing lotion over moisturizes if used for too long. It also appears to "build-up" over time. Even the Renewing cleanser doesn't appear to be able to clear off the Repairing lotion completely. So, I simply learned to skip that Repairing lotion step.

Also, I've found that benzoyl peroxide's effectiveness diminishes over time. Perhaps the bacteria get immune to it? Whatever the reason, the system doesn't work 100% as advertised. While it will work for most people, it appears to stop working after several months of constant use. I also experienced this effect.

However, I have found that I can control the acne by using the products selectively based on my skin. After the initial 2-3 weeks, you can probably choose your own product usage schedule for your skin type. I have also found another product that is more effective at killing the acne and that seems to consistently work even after several months (it's also far cheaper and you can make it at home). However, I sometimes use this other product in combination with the Renewing cleanser.

Of all the products in this system that I've found to be most effective, it is the Renewing cleanser. Unfortunately, as with any peroxide based product, it can have a bleaching effect on items other than your skin (i.e., your clothes, towels, rugs and even the shower curtain). So, if you're afraid of bleaching your bathroom items, you may want to skip this product. Or, purchase white towels for use with this product and spread the towels out liberally to prevent splashing.

Just remember, Benzoyl Peroxide is a peroxide. It has many of the same effects as any other peroxide including bleaching things out. Glycolic acid is just that, an acid. So, if you have sensitive skin, be sure to thoroughly test a small patch before you apply these products on a large scale. Both peroxide and acids can have a drying effect on the skin. This is why they give the repairing lotion (to moisturize).

Shelf life of the products is poor. If you don't use the products immediately, they only store for about 2-3 months before they basically go bad. So, when that box arrives, be prepared to toss your old products and use the new. With these products, freshness counts. That is, even though the Proactive company mentions nothing about this at all. So, if your products have been sitting around for 6 months or longer, you need to toss and get fresh.

Would I recommend this system? Not everything in it. I recommend the Renewing cleanser. It does clean the skin with the beads and helps by destroying the bacteria. However, it is drying. So, you'll probably want to use a moisturizer afterwords. Just be sure that the moisturizer that you use won't plug up your pores.

If you're thinking of purchasing this system, just be aware that the usage schedule is too aggressive for long term continued use. After the first two weeks you will need to taper off usage based on your skin type and how well your acne has cleared. If your acne has not cleared after 2-3 weeks, send the product back as it probably won't work for you. Also, giving your skin a break from the products seems to help the effectiveness when you do use it again.

Good luck in clearing up your acne.

Recommended: Yes