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 another top-tier 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
Where to buy
Key Products
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Commissions never influence scores.
Check the exact formula, size, seller, and availability on Amazon. Search links show results that may include other brands. Links open in a new tab.
- Emergency Blemish Relief Cream (BPO 5%) Search on Amazon →
- Skin Smoothing Exfoliator Search on Amazon →