Our take
Why It’s on Our Radar
We don't recommend it. It was FDA-recalled for benzene and is a named class-action defendant. Benzoyl peroxide can form benzene, so we flag BPO products with recalls.
What's inside
Ingredients & Safety
The active is benzoyl peroxide, which can chemically degrade into benzene (a carcinogen): the basis of the recall.
Ingredient list reviewed
- Benzoyl Peroxide 5%
- Water also listed as Aqua, Purified Water
- Glycerin also listed as Glycerine, Vegetable Glycerin
- Dimethicone
- Cetyl Alcohol also listed as Cetyl Alcohol
Formula scope: the disclosed ingredient list captured for this review. Formulas can differ by product, scent, country, and date; compare the current package with this list before deciding.
Want a cleaner option? Three Ships in Skincare currently meets our top criteria. Review its formula scope and cited records before deciding.
Who owns it
Ownership & Independence
Proactiv is owned by Alchemee (formerly The Proactiv Company / Guthy-Renker).
- Founded
- 1995
- Headquarters
- El Segundo, CA
- Control
- Owned by Alchemee (formerly The Proactiv Company / Guthy-Renker), itself owned by Taro Pharmaceutical / Sun Pharma
Products covered
Key Products
We don't link to buy products we flag. Read why above, or see Three Ships, which meets our top criteria.
- Emergency Blemish Relief Cream (BPO 5%)
- Skin Smoothing Exfoliator