How Proactiv Works

Clear skin starts here

Since 1995, Proactiv has been changing the way people treat acne. What started with our original 3-step routine has grown into a full range of dermatologist-developed acne solutions trusted by millions.

And while skincare trends have come and gone, one thing has never changed: Proactiv works because it’s built on proven results from consistent routine.

The Power of Routine

Breakouts don’t appear (or disappear) overnight — they build up over time from clogged pores, excess oil, and bacteria. Spot-treating pimples can be effective for a temporary fix, but tackling acne at the source needs a more targeted solution.

That’s why Proactiv and our dermatologists developed Combination Therapy® to treat your whole face every day and take on breakouts at every stage of the cycle. Each 3-step routine is formulated with science-backed ingredients, with every step building on the next to not only treat active breakouts, but also help prevent new ones from popping up in the future. Think of it like brushing your teeth — a consistent routine helps keep problems away before they start.

Which one of our acne routines is right for you?

For Oily/Combo Skin

Proactiv Solution

The Original

Our best-selling oil control routine treats & helps prevent acne so you can get clear & stay clear.

Skin-Loving Ingredients: Witch hazel, aloe, allantoin

Acne-clearing Ingredients: Benzoyl Peroxide

Step 1: Cleanse 
Renewing Cleanser
Penetrates Pores

Step 2: Tone
Revitalizing Toner
Refreshes oily skin

Step 3: Repair
Repairing Treatment
Targets acne at the source

I have used Proactiv for 14 years now and it’s the only thing that has kept my acne away.

- Karon M.

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For Sensitive Skin

Proactiv Clean

Clean & Gentle

This gentle routine was formulated to treat & help prevent acne without parabens, phthalates, sulfates, & 100+ no-no ingredients.

Skin-Loving Ingredients: Azalaic acid, bakuchiol, & chamomile

Acne-clearing Ingredients: Mineral-derived sulfur & salicylic acid

Step 1: Cleanse 
Mineral Acne Cleanser
Helps reduce oil & impurities

Step 2: Treat
Azelaic Pore Perfector
Helps decongest pores

Step 3: Hydrate
Acne Clearing Hydrator
Helps replenish moisture barrier

My skin is absolutely glowing.

- Zion T.

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For Dry Skin

Proactiv+

Hydrate & Brighten

Our hydrating routine minimizes dryness while clearing blemishes & helping prevent future breakouts.

Skin-Loving Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid & licorice root

Acne-clearing Ingredients: Salicylic acid

Step 1: Cleanse 
Smoothing BHA Cleanser
Reveals softer, smoother skin

Step 2: Treat
Pore Clearing Treatment
Treats breakouts & moisturizes skin

Step 3: Hydrate
Complexion Perfecting Hydrator
Nourishes & moisturizes skin

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For Stubborn Acne

ProactivMD

No RX Required

Featuring adapalene (previously only available only by prescription!), this powerful routine is tough on acne & ideal for all skin types.

Skin-Loving Ingredients: Green tea, sophora root & kojic acid

Acne-clearing Ingredients: Adapalene (the first FDA-approved non-RX retinoid)