Proactiv is one of the most popular acne medicines sold online. According to Sumayah Jamal, MD, PhD, an assistant professor of dermatology and microbiology, most of his patients were dissatisfied with the results. Evidently, the product works initially. Patents reported Proactiv stops being efficient some time later. The medical profession has traditionally treated mild to moderate acne with the combination of deep cleansers containing benzoyl peroxide and a topical antibiotic or sulphur drugs to fight bacteria.

Fact or Fallacy?

Exploring customer reviews on various retail sites proved the doctor’s statement correct in what I would estimate as over half of Proactiv users. Many complained about customer service and refunds as often as the actual product! Not a confidence builder for new customers, just sayin’. The following is an excerpt from one customer who also acknowledged the varying results. “ Though Proactiv Solution works pretty well for me, I have never seen a product vary so drastically from one user to another…. The first few weeks didn’t give me any results, but after a about a month, the product worked to its full potential. I have been using it for almost two years now, and I am very happy with my decision to purchase it. Though it has not provided the magical results that are showcased in every commercial, (I still get a couple of pimples every couple of weeks; my face is not the horrible red mask that it once was.)”

Do you know someone who suffers from acne?
One of my closest high school girl friends suffered from severe acne. Her treatments were administered by a dermatologist. I remember her complaining how some treatments were very ineffective. Oftentimes her acne breakouts were kept to a minimum but seldom completely cleared. It was difficult for her emotionally as well.  She stressed over her completion and spent hours applying makeup to hide her scars. Being a friend and good listener seemed to help relieve some of the overwhelming frustration she was experiencing.

Acne treatments as well as overall skin care has advanced considerably since those times. However, with so many discrepancies about acne treatment products, choosing the best treatment must be exasperating. Added frustration and disappointment when dealing with acne can only make the situation worse, right?

Having witnessed my friends suffering and emotional distress, my choice would be professional help. What say you?