Guthy Renker is the king of infomercials; you have probably heard the name. They back products in the health and wellness arena, one of their best known products, being Proactive.  Guthy Renker has added to the Proactive package Vitaclear.  Vitaclear is a supplement that you add to your normal facial cleansing system, and Guthy Renker is pairing Vitaclear with Proactive.  I would like to strictly review Vitaclear, for more information on Proactive, check out that review.

Vitaclear is loaded with the vitamins and minerals necessary for your body to achieve and maintain a healthy immune system, and as an added bonus, Vitaclear claims you’ll have healthier skin.  Vitaclear accomplishes this with 4 different vitamins taken daily.  Vitaclear has an Energizer capsule; this is made up of B vitamins, which are known to increase your energy. The Antioxidant capsule; this vitamin contains the necessary Antioxidants to improve your skin, they are also likely to reduce stress and help your body increase collagen.  Vitaclear also has a Mineral compound capsule; this supports clear skin, by boosting your immune system. And last they have a super juice capsule, which contains the essential antioxidants you would receive from your daily intake of 5 servings of fruits and vegtables.

Essentially Vitaclear is made up of 4 different vitamins, taken daily, to improve your immune system, and skin condition.  Does Vitaclear use the right mix of vitamins and minerals to really help keep your skin clear, read on, and see for yourself?

Is Vitaclear Safe?

Vitaclear is made up of powerful vitamins and minerals, all of which are natural and safe.

Does Vitaclear Have Powerful Acne Fighting Ingredients?

Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Selenium, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folic acid, Vitamin B12, Biotin, Pantothenic acid, Calcium, Magnesium, Iron, Zinc, Copper, Potassium, Iodine, Manganese, Chromium, Molybdenum, Boron, Rose Hips, Citrus biflavanoids, Rice bran.

Will Vitaclear Give You Long Term Results?

Vitaclear is more likely to give you the energy boost you need, as well as keep your immune system working hard.  As long as you are taking the 4 pill regimen you should feel good.  It is possible to see the benefits of healthier skin from Vitaclear as long as you continue to take them daily.

What is Vitaclear’s Guarantee?

Guthy Renker backs up Vitaclear with a free 30 day trial.  Of course, you have to pay shipping, and they keep your credit card number, so they can charge you if you don’t follow all return procedures.  As with most free trials, you are likely to get charged, stay on top of it and follow their directions precisely. Vitaclear will put you on an auto ship program after the trial period, if you do not cancel.

How much is Vitaclear?

Vitaclear is $30 for a 30 day supply.

Vitaclear Conclusion

While Vitaclear seems to be a decent vitamin supplement, it has a few draw backs.  It is 4 separate vitamins that you take daily,  that you take in addition to your  regular acne fighting solution.  It’s not even the full package.  If you do have a skin care line that you love, and you wanted to add 4 vitamins to give you more energy, boost your immune system, and help keep your skin more clear, Vitaclear might be an option to consider.  They do have the 30 day free trial, but this works out to be more like a 10 day trial, as you have to return the product in time if you are unhappy.  Many message boards are loaded with complaints about being charged after canceling their subscription.

Most often adult acne is related to hormones. Women are more likely to suffer from adult acne than men. Even women who have never suffered from acne before can start seeing it in the twenties and thirties. This is mainly because of hormone fluctuations and other factors affecting hormone production, such as birth control pills, pregnancy, breast feeding, menopause, and hormonal therapy. Cosmetics and skin care products can also add to the problem.

Premenstrual acne, which occurs in flares usually eight to ten days before a woman’s period, is related to changes in hormones. This hormone change causes sebum production and inflammation within the follicles. This inflammation leads to the obstruction of the follicle, creating anaerobic areas for acne bacteria live. This is called inflammatory acne. Inflammatory acne lesions are red, sore bumps without white centers.  This  hormonal acne most often affects the chin area, but can be found on other areas of the body and face as well.

Inflammatory acne can also be caused by external topical substances, including some makeup and skin care products. Products like these that cause acne are commonly referredto as comedogenic or acnegenic. These products contribute to cell build up, resulting in acne.

Stress Factors

Stress is certainly a factor in acne. You will most likely experience acne breakouts at stressful times in your life. Stress can actually trigger hormone fluctuations which causes sebum overproduction and inflammation, resulting in acne flare ups. To help prevent “stress acne” make sure you are doing things to keep stress levels down, like yoga or running.

Treating Adult Acne

All adult acne can be drastically improved by using a good acne face wash. If you suffer from adult acne you need to be very consistent in washing your face, because this helps to exfoliate sebum and dead skin cells that are plugging inflamed follicles. Its what your doing daily with a good acne face wash that’s going to make all the difference in your adult acne. Consistent face washing also helps to prevent premature aging. Its a win-win! Below are acne face washes that have taken care of my adult acne.

Acjuva comes with a 8 oz. acne face wash, an 8 oz. toner, and a 4 oz. repairing lotion. The makers of Acjuva guarantee it will clear your acne in 14 days or its free. Acjuva  has great customer reviews. Lets take a closer look at the ingredients in Acjuva.

Acjuva Ingredients

Acjuva contains very sophisticated ingredients, when it comes to clearing acne naturally. I espcially love that it contains Hydronium50 (H3O+)– This microscopic chemical can penetrate the most congested pores, and destroy bacteria. I also like that the repairing lotion contains hyaluronic acid and vegetable glycerin. These ingredient are perfect moisturizer for acne-prone skin.
Tea tree oil– Have sensitive skin? Benzoylperoxide leaving your face dry, red and scaly? Tree Oil is a very effective, yet gentle alternative. In 1990, a leading dermatologist from Australia did a study at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney that showed the differences between benzoylperoxide and tea tree oil on acne. Tea Tree Oil gave patients significantly less side effects, while SIGNIFICANTLY DECREASING ACNE. Tea tree oil contains an ingredient called terpinen-4-ol that is thought to kill Propionibacterium acnes, the skin-dwelling bacteria that is considered the cause of acne.

White willow– salicylic acid – unclogs pores. The active ingredient in white willow is salicin, which the body converts into salicylic acid. The salicylic acid in white willow bark lowers the body’s levels of prostaglandins, hormone like compounds that can cause inflammation. Salicylic acid helps slow down shedding of skin cells, preventing clogging. Salicylic acid also helps break down blackheads and whiteheads. The salicylic acid derived from white willow bark DOES NOT have the side effects and irritation as the chemically derived salicylic acid found in nearly every acne treatment.

Green tea – Green tea has a natural astringent that both soothes and heals acne. It’s a potent source of anti-oxidants, which destroy free radicals making your skin suppler and healthier.

Organic Aloe Vera – If you’ve been badly sunburned, Aloe Vera is nothing short of a miracle. Unknown to many, it also helps with acne. This incredible plant acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and immune booster. It not only helps eliminate acne, but reduces redness and flaky skin.

Hydronium 50(H3O+)– This microscopic chemical can penetrate the most congested pores, destroy bacteria, and eliminate acne—all while making your skin soft and youthful. Hydronium also counters the effects of aging by eliminating free radicals.

Chamomile - An extremely expensive extract, Chamomile is one of the safest medicinal herbs. It is a soothing, gentle relaxant that is best known as a muscle relaxant, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent.

Lavender – Lavender oil has well known antibacterial and soothing properties. It is excellent as a preventative acne treatment that effectively STOPS FUTURE BREAKOUTS while clearing the redness associated with acne prone skin.

Redmond Clay – Ever had an expensive mud bath at a spa? Well, this ingredient is what makes mud baths so great for your skin. Geologically, Redmond Clay is volcanic ash that was deposited in seawater approximately 150 million years ago. Generations of people have used the clay for an all-natural facial with no additives, chemicals or preservatives. It has more than 1000 uses, including ACNE.

Calendula– this plant acts as an anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory agent, helping it zero in on the source of acne– Propionibacterium acnes.

Comfrey- Tired of those acne pits forming on your face? Good thing Acjuva includes comfrey. It promotes the healing of acne and even limits scarring.

Licorice root – Licorice root possesses natural anti-inflammatory agents that can soothe skin affected by blemishes. It also limits the production of irritants in the body that cause acne.

DMAE - DMAE shows remarkable effects when applied topically to skin, resulting in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.

Honey – contains enzymes that rejuvenate the skin and act as an antimicrobial

Hyaluronic acid – aids healing and provides structural integrity to the cellular matrix that inhibits bacteria and viruses from reaching cells.

Vegetable Glycerin- Vegetable glycerine comes to us through a very complex and sophisticated method of extraction known as Hydrolysis. It is a humectant—meaning that it promotes the retention of water, which results it smoother, healthier skin.
Lemongrass Oil– No other essential oil is a better facial cleanser. It’s widely known for its antimicrobial, antifungal and antiseptic therapeutic properties. Not only this, but it is an excellent astringent, which is a huge plus for those with oily skin. To top it off, its fresh, lemony scent will have a euphoric affect on you.

How Much Is Acjuva?

Acjuva is a great deal when you realize these bottles will last you four months. One Acjuva 3-Step Kit is $39.95 and comes with a full Money Back Gaurantee. Acjuva’s bottles are double the size of Proactiv and almost half the price.

Here are some Acjuva customer reviews:
“Acjuva is a lifesaver. Acne has plagued my life since I was a teenager. I’ve tried everything from scrubs, peels, to prescription medications and have only seen minimal, temporary results. For the first time since I was 14, I am acne free. Acjuva has changed my life. Thank you Acjuva.”

“If you could see me 4 months ago, you wouldn’t be able to recognize me. My acne is gone! The best part is that throughout the entire process I experienced no redness and no excessive dryness. Acjuva is a MIRACLE!”

“I was so self-conscious that I wouldn’t go anywhere without make up. I did not want anyone seeing my naked, acne covered face. Each day I would spend nearly two hours getting ready for work. Not only was this time consuming and expensive, but I also looked terrible and my acne actually worsened. A coworker of mine recommended Acjuva. It was risk-free so I gave it a shot. Three months later—not even after one kit—I am acne free. Acjuva is AMAZING! Thanks so much!”

“I bought Acjuva for my teenage son. He suffered from BAD acne. So bad, that even I had a hard time looking at him. At first, I was a little skeptical of Acjuva because it is all natural. I didn’t think it would be powerful enough for my son. But, boy was I wrong. Within 2 months my son went from “pizza face” to nearly acne free. He’s so much more confident and happy. Acjuva really does work.”

Acjuva Conclusion

I highly recommend using Acjuva to treat acne. It contains natural ingredients that heal the skin and prevent future breakouts. Acjuva is hands down one of the best acne face washes on the market. If your not totally satisfied Acjuva comes with a full money back guarantee. 

Does Acnetix Really Work?

Acnetix contains 35 organic ingredients that are meant to naturally fight acne. It prevents future acne breakouts while healing existing acne. I started using Acnetix because I was very impressed with the ingredients it contains. After a week of using Acnetix my face was completely acne free, something that hasn’t happened in over 15 years!I started telling everyone I knew about Acnetix, eveyone I have referred to this product loves it.

How much is Acnetix?

One bottle of Acnetix is $39.99. You can buy it in bulk and if you purchase multiple bottles it comes with a free pore minimizer product (I use this on my nose and it works great). Its hard to tell from the picture, but the Acnetix bottle is huge! One bottle of Acnetix is 13.5 fl ounces(Proactiv’s face wash is 2 fl ounces). Acnetix will easily last you four months, if not longer. So, using Acnetix is less than $10 per month, this is a great deal for the ingredients it contains.

Acnetix Ingredients

I love that Acnetix doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals, dyes, or unnatural fragrances. Acnetix contains everything nature has provided to clear acne, the number of high quality ingredients is impressive. Most face washes contain only one or two active ingredients.

Lets take a detailed look at the 35 organic ingredients contained in Acnetix.
Tea Tree – Melaleuca alternifolia, or Australian tea tree oil as it is more commonly known, is a native Australian plant with many remarkable properties. When crushed and distilled, the leaves of this plant yield a 100% natural oil which is an antiseptic, a fungicide, and a mild solvent. This is the ULTIMATE BENZOYL PEROXIDE ALTERNATIVE!

White Willow- The bark of the stately white willow tree (Salix alba) has been used in China for centuries as a medicine. The active ingredient in white willow is salicin, which the body converts into salicylic acid. The salicylic acid in white willow bark lowers the body’s levels of prostaglandins, hormone like compounds that can cause inflammation. Salicylic acid helps slow down shedding of skin cells, preventing clogging. Salicylic acid also helps break down blackheads and whiteheads. The salicylic acid derived from white willow bark DOES NOT have the adverse allergic reactions and irritation as the chemically derived salicylic acid.

Retinol A (Vitamin A)- Naturally occurring Vitamin A, or retinol, is found in fish oils, liver and dairy products. Researcher has shown vitamin A is an essential nutrient to treat acne. The Vitamin A produced by plants is known as Beta-carotene, and is found in yellow/orange fruits and vegetable such as carrots, yams, apricots and cantaloupe, as well as green vegetables like parsley, kale and spinach.

Vitamin E – (alpha tocopherol) is an anti-oxidant that assists in maintaining cell integrity. When applied to the skin, vitamin E oil promotes healing, protecting cells from free-radical damage and reducing itchiness. Many people use it to ensure optimal skin health. Vitamin E has been shown to play an important role in protecting skin from environmental and oxidative damage. It is beneficial in the repair and reduction of acne, scars and stretch marks.

Green Tea- Catechins (the medicinal portion of green tea) are well recognized as powerful antioxidants. Used to enhance your skin’s immunity and rebuild damaged skin cells. Useful in the treatment of acne sun burns, chronic photo-damage, aging and the effects of environmental pollutants.

Walnut Shell – Nature doesn’t have a better solution for exfoliation. Walnut shell comes in 3 cosmetic grades. The finest grit (60/200) is the ideal grade for all types of skin. Several prototypes involved the perfection of this ingredient. We have just enough to thoroughly exfoliate yet still not irritate it.

Oat Flour – The colloidal Oatmeal almost instantly gives a slightly milky, almost slimy consistency –which then coats the skin, moisturizing, softening, and protecting it. The emollient, or skin-softening, properties of oat products come from ingredients in the oatmeal such as cellulose and fiber.

Vegetable Glycerin – Vegetable glycerin comes to us through a very complex and sophisticated method of extraction known as Hydrolysis. It is invaluable as a natural source ingredient with emollient like properties which can soften and soothe the skin and it assists the outer epidermis is retaining moisture.

Redmond Clay- Geologically, Redmond Clay is volcanic ash that was deposited in sea water approximately 150 million years ago. Generations of people have used the clay for an all natural facial with no additives, chemicals or preservatives. As the clay dries, you will feel it draw and pull. In the case of a facial for acne, pimples, or minor cuts, leave it on until it is almost, but not totally dry, then remove.

Aloe Vera – There are over 240 different species of Aloe, growing mainly in the dry regions of Africa, Asia, Europe and America. The aloe leaf contains over 75 nutrients and 200 active compounds, including 20 minerals, 18 amino acids, and 12 vitamins. Aloe gel has been used for topical treatment of wounds, minor burns, and skin irritations since ancient Egypt.

Purified Water- Your skin is mostly water. What is the best way to hydrate your skin? Water. Consumers know this and some companies are making a spray bottle with water in it and making big bucks. It’s true that water hydrates your skin but it is more effective when combined with humectants and moisturizers.

Chaparral- A very expensive aqueous extract of the leaves and twigs of Larrea tridentata (Sesse & Moc.) Chaparral was taken by Indians as a remedy for curing a wide variety of ailments, including arthritis , cancer , venereal disease, tuberculosis , bowel cramps , rheumatism, and colds . Today it is applied in skin treatments used for afflictions such as acne and eczema, sores, wounds, and rashes.

Gotu Kola- Gotu kola is a slender, creeping plant that grows commonly in swampy areas of India, Sri Lanka , Madagascar , South Africa and the tropics. Gotu kola has been referred to as “food for the brain”. This oriental herb has demonstrated mild tranquilizing, anti-anxiety and anti-stress effects, as well as improving mental functions such as concentration and memory. It has a calming effect on the body and is chiefly used to support the central nervous system. It has been used as a tonic for purification of blood and for promoting healthy skin and to treat skin inflammations.

Alfalfa – First discovered by the Arabs, they dubbed this valuable plant the “father of all foods”. The leaves of this remarkable legume contain eight essential amino acids. Rich in protein, vitamins E and K, alfalfa restores and increases body tone. It contains an anti- fungus agent which alkalizes and detoxifies the skin.

Jojoba – It is suspected that jojoba oil “tricks” the skin into stopping the production of sebum through somehow mimicking sebum. This also means that jojoba oil will assist in breaking down sebum in plugged-up pores. Sebum and jojoba oil will mix readily without sealing off the skin pores. Dermatologists have also reported jojoba oil’s non- irritating use for acne. Other materials such as mineral oil can cause anaerobic microbial growth and inflammation redness and swelling in and around pores. Jojoba oil will not cause blackheads that contribute to acne.

Avocado – Avocados find their roots in Central America . Also known as Persea americana , the avocado was labeled the “fruit of kings”. These luscious pear-shaped wonders are considered one of the most nutritious fruits on earth. That’s because avocados contain at least 75% monosaturated fats — that’s good for YOU! Avocado Oil penetrates the skin more deeply than other plant oils (e.g. lanolin, olive, almond or soya-bean oils). Therefore it’s an ideal base for transdermal treatments, & a natural carrier for added supplements to reach the deepest target areas.

Lavender – Recognized around the globe for its fresh and heady fragrance, the lavender plant (Lavendula angustifolia), a flowering evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, also boasts a long history in herbal healing. The aromatic lavender flower has natural antiseptic and astringent properties that folk healers recognized centuries ago. Lavender oil prevents infection thus stopping the spread of acne.

Jasmine – Jasmine essential oil has a sweet, exotic and rich floral smell and the oil is deep orange-brown in color. This unique blend adds to the soothing and natural aroma of Juliet’s Clean and Smooth.

Camellia – An extremely expensive extract, Chamomile is one of the safest medicinal herbs. It is a soothing, gentle relaxant that is best known as a muscle relaxant, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent.

Bergamot- Bergamot is an essential oil obtained from the rind of the fruit of the Citrus bergamia and is well-known for its pleasingly sweet citrus aroma.

Other Ingredients – Juniper, Sweet Orange, Carrot Seed, Allantoin, Honey, Castile Flake, Flax Meal, Rosemary, MSM, Witch Hazel.

Acnetix Conclusion

I highly recommend Acnetix. Its one of the only face washes that has ever worked for me, and believe me I’ve tried everything. Acnetix contains high quality ingredients that work to clear and prevent acne. Acnetix comes with a full money back gaurantee and is very affordable when you consider how long it will last you.

Retin-A is a prescription topical acne treatment that  is only available through your Dermatologist. Retin-A works by speeding up the rate at which our skin is renewed. This can help get rid of acne, but does come with a long list of side effects.

Retin-A’s Main Ingredient:

Retin-A contains Tretinoin which is Vitamin A in acid form. This ingredient usually causes a lot of irritation for most people. You can experience redness, sensitivity, stinging, and dryness while using Retin-A.

Warnings For Retin-A Users:

Avoid getting Retin-A in your eyes, in the creases of your nose, or on your lips. If it does get into any of these areas, wash with water. Do not use Retin-A on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, irritated, or broken skin. Also avoid using this medication in wounds or on areas of eczema. Do not use skin products that contain alpha hydroxy or glycolic acid while you are also using Retin-A. Also, do not have waxing treatments done while using Retin-A doing so can result in injury and scarring. Avoid using skin products that can cause irritation, such as harsh soaps, shampoos, or hair coloring or permanent chemicals, or skin products with alcohol, spices, astringents, or lime. Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Retin-A will makeyour skin more sensitive to the sun and sunburn will result. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

Retin-A Conclusion

Retin-A is too harsh of a treatment for most everyone. Retin-A causes constant inflammation and irritation. I would recommend something more natural to treat your acne. Below are two acne face washes that contain natural ingredients that clear acne naturally without harmful chemicals.

Does Differin Clear Acne?

Differin is a prescription acne gel that is suppose to work by accelerating the rate at which the skin reproduces itself while also killing off bacteria. My question is does it come with the same side effects as many other prescription acne medications?

Differin Ingredients:

Differin uses a 0.1% or 0.3% concentration of an ingredient called adapalene, which is basically a form of vitamin A. Differin thins your skin and helps to reduce the follicle from becoming plugged with sebaceous filaments (natural oil).

Differin Warnings:

While using Differin make sure you avoid acne products containing Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide as well as any other harsh ingredients. You MUST also avoid going in direct sunlight, indoor tanning, and waxing treatments. The layers of your skin are thinned considerably when using Differin so, doing these things can be very harmful to your skin and can cause long term damage that is irreparable. Also, do not use if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Differin Side Effects:

Common side effects include: irritation, redness, sensitivity, dryness, flaking, and stinging. Most everyone that uses Differin will experience at least a few of these side effects.

How Much Is Differin?

It depends on if your insurance policy covers prescription medications. If it does not you can expect to paying over $100 for a small tube of Differin. Also, you can’t take it back to the Pharmacy if it doesn’t work for you.

Differin Conclusion

I have seen many patients use Differin without any success. It also comes with a handful of negative side effects. I don’t like the irritation and inflammation Differin causes. I wouldn’t recommend Differin as a good acne treatment option. This may be an option for you if you have Grade 4 Acne (refer to my article on “Grades of Acne”). If you don’t have Grade 4 Acne I highly recommend trying options that are much more natural first.

You may have seen TV infomercials for Murad. Murad has a three step acne treatment that contains an acne wash,  treatment gel, and  lotion. Does Murad’s three step system really banish acne?

Murad Active Ingredients

The active ingredients in Murad are Salicylic Acid (1.5%) , Menthol, and Green Tea. The salicylic acid in Murad will cause a lot of dryness and irritation. Also, neither menthol or green tea have been know to help acne. I am not sure why these two are even active ingredients in an acne treatment when they don’t help acne.

I would like to see more acne fighting ingredients in the Murad formulations. Also, Murad contains a lot of unnatural fillers and preservatives that do not help acne one bit.

How Much Is Murad?

Murad is quite expensive for the ingredients it contains. A two month supply is $60.00. I am not convinced that these products will last you two months. The Murad cleanser is only 2 ounces and the gel and lotion are only one ounce! Also, beware of the auto-shipment you are automatically signed up for  bills you every single month regardless of whether you want or need the product. I am not a fan of auto-shipments.

Customer Reviews For Murad

Most of the customer reviews I found for Murad were very negative. Most users said it worked well for a few days and then their acne came back ten times worse. It appeared that one out of every twenty Murad users liked the product.

The Bottom Line

After reading close to a hundred reviews and talking to some of my patients that have tried Murad I can’t recommend it as one of my best acne face washes. It doesn’t work at clearing acne or preventing future acne breakouts.

Accutane is a prescription acne treatment pill derived from Vitamin A. Accutane is very controversal treatment because of the unknown safety of the product. Accutane definately comes with negative short term side effects, but recent research is indicating it may pose long term health side effects as well.

 Common Short Term Side Effects of Accutane:

Some of the more common side effects while taking Accutane include: discomfort with contact lenses; joint pain, back pain; feeling dizzy, drowsy, or nervous; dryness of the lips, mouth, nose, or skin; or cracking or peeling skin, itching, rash, changes in your fingernails or toenails. You can even experience extreme depression because of Accutane.

What are Accutanes Long Term Health Risks?

Recent research has showed Accutaneusers are ending up with serious health problems down the road. Some examples of these health risks include colitis, Crohn’sdisease, diverticulitis, even mental health issues.

Accutane is also linked to causing serious birth defects in babies. When Accutane was first being used babies were being born with out limbs as a result of the medication affecting the fetus. All woman Accutane users (even if your not sexually active)  are now required to take two forms of birth control while using Accutane to prevent birth defects.

The Bottom Line

In my opinion you should try and avoid Accutane at all costs. Accutane is a risky prescription medication that should only be taken under the close supervision of your Physician. The safety of Accutane is so questionable that it should only be taken if you have serve acne and have tried absolutely every other acne treatment first. I would highly recommend trying one the best acne face washes I have list below before taking Accutane.

Proactiv is a well advertised product that is endorsed by many celebrities. The question is does it actually make your skin crystal clear like they claim?

Overview of Active Ingredients In Proactiv

The only active ingredient in the Proactiv 3-step acne solution is Benzoyl Peroxide.  Benzoyl Peroxide is extremely drying to your skin which can actually make your acne worse.  Anyone that has used Benzoyl Peroxide before knows that this ingredient results in nothing but irritation, redness, and flakey skin.  Also, look at this warning they include below their ingredient list.  Who knew an acne treatment could come with so many warnings?

“Warnings: When using this product, using other topical acne medications at the same time or immediately following use of this product, may increase dryness or irritation of the skin. If this occurs, only one medication should be used unless directed by a doctor. Do not use this medication if you have very sensitive skin or if you are sensitive to Benzoyl Peroxide. This product may cause irritation, characterized by redness, burning, itching, peeling or possibly swelling. Keep away from eyes, lips and mouth. Avoid product contact with hair and dyed fabrics, including carpets and clothing which may be bleached by this product. If going outside, use a sunscreen. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.”

Overview of Inactive Ingredients in Proactiv

When I actually did research into the inactive ingredients in Proactiv I was shocked….and not in a good way. The Proactiv cleanser, toner, and repairing lotion where all three chucked full of unnatural preservatives, fragrances, and dyes. All three of these things are not good for anyone let alone acne suffers. One of the preservatives in Proactiv is derived from formaldehyde! You can see a full list of the ingredients on the Practiv website.

How Much Is Proactiv?

Proactiv has come down in price quite a bit since it first came out. You can find it online for $29.95. It does come with a 60 day money back guarantee.

The Bottom Line

I wouldn’t recommend Proactiv to 99% of acne sufferers. The reason is its just to harsh for most everyone. When I used Proactiv it cleared up  my skin for 3-4 days and then it got so irritated and on top of that the acne came back with a vengeance. I would recommend an acne face wash that is less irritating and more natural than Proactiv.

Does Neutrogena  Rapid Clear Work?

Neutrogena has done a very good job of getting their name widely known. Is this because they have good products or because they have good marketing campaigns? Lets look at the ingredients in this particular Neutrogena product.

Neutrogena Rapid Clear Active Ingredients:

Salicylic Acid (2%) (Acne Treatment)

Neutrogena Rapid Clear Inactive Ingredients:

Water, C12 15 Alkyl Benzoate, Butylene Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethiconol Beeswax, Dimethicone, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG 100 Stearate, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides, Capryloyl Glycine, Sarcosine, Cinnamomum Zeylancium Bark Extarct, Hexylene Glycol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Cedrus Atlantica Bark Extract, Bisabolol, Allantoin, Propylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Acrylates/C10 30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hydroxide, Fragrance (Parfum)

Neutrogena  Rapid Clear Ingredients Overview:

Salicylic Acid (2%) is the only acne fighting ingredient in this face wash. Neutrogena  Rapid Clear bring nothing new to the table when it comes to clearing up acne.  The ingredients in this face wash will cause your skin to become dry and that’s about it. I  also don’t like that this product has so many unnatural inactive ingredients.

How Much Does Neutrogena  Rapid Clear Cost?

Its around $7.00 and it is readily available online and at your local drug store. This isn’t a very costly product, but if it isn’t strong enough to fight your acne it’s not even worth $7. If you purchase this product from www.neutrogena.com it comes with a 60 day money back guarantee which is great.

Neutrogena  Rapid Clear Reveiews:

Customer reveiws on this product seem to be fairly neutral. No one seems to love it, but no one seems to hate it. Most said it made their skin feel clean, but wasn’t strong enough to fight their acne.

The Bottom Line

Neutrogena  Rapid Clear Oil-Control Foaming Cleanser is mediocre. Don’t get me wrong using this face wash is better than using nothing, but it simply doesn’t have enough acne fighting ingredients to get the job done. If your serious about getting rid of acne I would recommend looking for something that packs a little more acne fighting punch.