trying to dig my brain deep, back to when we were wedding planning and looking for skin clearing solutions, but I got nothing...
Has anyone ever used Proactive?
I keep going back and forth about it... I'm skeptical. Now that I've had Sami, I really need to get my skin back on track, but I just don't think it will work for me (mainly because nothing seems to have, to date).
I guess I just want to know if you've used it, if you think it worked, and if you think it's worth the money. I mean, for my skin, I'll try anything... I just want something that's gonna work, dammit! >_<
Re: Proactive
Stand up for something you believe in.
It didn't work for me, but nothing works for me. I have terrible acne. The prices are much lower now than when I used it though, so it's probably worth a try. I know a lot of people who have had success with it.
I've been going to dermatologists off and on since I was a teen. Five years ago, they finally put me on Acutane, and it cleared me up. It was a total PITA with monthly blood tests and having to verify 2 forms of birth control, but it did the trick. He told me that in a few years it might wear off and I'd have to go through another treatment. As soon as I stopped taking bcp, my face was a mess, but since we're TTC, another treatment isn't an option. Just thought I'd throw that out there, since I don't think you're trying for another one any time soon. Also, not sure if you're breast-feeding. If you're acne is really serious, you might want to consider it.
I've been contemplating it as well.
I've heard that while you're using it - it's really successful, but once you stop, your skin is a million times worse than before.
I used it a few years ago and found it to be helpful. It helped to stop more acne from coming but it didn't seem to really clear up all the way what was already there. It also dried my skin out so bad that it was peeling all the time. I couldn't decide which was worse, the acne or the constant peeling skin.
After proactive I tried the Clean and Clear Acne System and it worked so well for me. It didn't dry my skin out, it was cheaper than proactive and easier to get (most stores carry it like Target and Walmart,) and I didn't feel like a slave to it. With the Proactive, like other people have said, when I missed a treatment I could tell. With the other stuff, if I skip a morning wash or whatever, I don't instantly break out.
Also it was OK'd while I was pregnant.
I, like DD tried everything before it too and thought that there was NO WAY that this would be the thing to work. I tried literally every single kit Sephora sold (including the Murad which is *supposed* to be awesome.... did nothing), I tried getting regular facials, chemical peels, using non-scented detergents, only using white pillow cases and changing them every night, only using a fresh white washcloth to dry my face each time, salon grade products etc. I thought to myself, what's another $20 and I'm so happy I finally did it.
Just as an FYI, this stuff doesn't do well with removing makeup. Plus, it can burn your eyes if you try to use it to remove mascara or something. I use just regular Oil of Olay products along with it. My skin has been the best it's ever been. I had a few breakouts at the beginning of my pregnancy but that's all.
Sorry that turned into a novel.
:Blog:
What finally worked for me was getting KU'd!
I could wash my face with bacon grease and probably still not break out. I really wish my skin stays like this after Evie is born. But I'm doubting it.
I was using Mary Kay's face wash and it was working pretty well. It would keep my skin smooth but it wouldn't prevent my monthly "break out" before I got my period. So I really don't know how effective it was... then again none of the face washes I ever used would prevent that.
I now use Aveno Sensitive Skin and I really like it. But in all honesty, right now, I can get away without washing my face at all. I tried out a face wash by Burt's Bees and HATED it. It left my skin feeling so greasy and gross. Maybe that's what it was supposed to do, leave moisture behind but it's definitely not for me. I don't have a problem with dry skin, though.
Overall, I like Neutragena products and dermatologists generally like the products.
My Acme Box last update 3/28/11
A little late but I agree with the clean and clear. They have spot treatment that I think is amazing.
I tried Proactive once and it did nothing but dry out my skin.
I like the Clean & Clear Advantage kit. I works well for me, but the cleanser is a little too harsh for me. Apparently my skin is really sensitive. So I use Philosophy Purity Made Simple face wash and the C&C Moisturizer and spot treatment.
I wasn't a fan, but it doesn't mean that it won't work for you. All my friends say the same thing. If your dedicated, your skin will look good, but miss one day and it turns to poop.
What works best for me (and i've been through everything including accutane) was the clarisonic brush and a mild cleanser.I got the brush when I got pregnant because my skin looked terrible. My skin is almost all clear now and I've been using it regularly once a day. Also, my skin is SO smooth and soft.