Quote Originally Posted by Giselle
I don't have acne or anything, but I've always been skeptical of these skin cleaning products. Do they really clean out your pores? I heard from a friend that these products merely promote the growth of new skin whereas another friend said that the products act as an astringent and pull the pores of your skin closer together (thereby preventing acne...?). Anybody got any insight on this?
The two significant ingredients are...benzoyl peroxide & glycolic acid.
benzoyl peroxide: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benzoyl_peroxide
glycolic acid: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glycolic_acid
These are not "secret" ingredients, but are common in many acne preparations and beauty products. Basically, the benzoyl peroxide kills bacteria and the glycolic acid speeds skin cell turnover.
Like a lot of things - it will work for some and not others. Proactiv is pretty mild, when compared to most prescription products. So if you have moderate acne it seems logical to try it before seeing a dermatologist - it can't hurt! I tried it a long time ago, but I do not like the bleaching properties of b.p. I manage to bleach towels, bedding, clothes, pillows...I don't know what is wrong with me.
I use a generic Retin-A product these days and I'm happy with it.
Anyway, hope that helps demystify things a bit! And, you don't have acne?? Lucky girl!!