Repair Repairing Treatment
Repair Repairing Treatment
Product Description
Product overview
A leave-on acne treatment featuring 2.5% micronized benzoyl peroxide that penetrates deep into pores to kill acne-causing bacteria. Formulated with allantoin and panthenol for soothing hydration while fighting breakouts.
Micronized Benzoyl Peroxide
Prescription-grade, finely milled particles penetrate deep into pores to target acne-causing bacteria at the source.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMicronized Benzoyl Peroxide
Prescription-grade, finely milled particles penetrate deep into pores to target acne-causing bacteria at the source.
Soothing Allantoin
Botanical extract that calms skin, reduces irritation, and promotes healthy-looking skin while treating acne.
Hydrating Panthenol
Pro-vitamin B5 helps moisturize and condition skin to minimize the drying effects of benzoyl peroxide.
Silicone-Smoothed Texture
Dimethicone and cyclopentasiloxane create a silky application that absorbs without heavy residue.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEBenzoyl peroxide is FDA Category C. While minimal systemic absorption occurs, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Only ~5% is absorbed systemically. Considered low risk when applied to face. Avoid nipple area and infant contact with treated skin.
Contains dimethicone, cetearyl alcohol, and other ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast. Choose a fungal-acne-safe alternative.
Contains fragrance and potential sensitizers. May cause dryness, peeling, or irritation. Start with once daily application.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 2.5%Gold Standard
The most effective topical acne-fighting ingredient available over-the-counter. Kills acne-causing C. acnes bacteria by releasing oxygen into pores, and has mild comedolytic (pore-clearing) effects.
- Research: Studies show 2.5% is as effective as 5-10% with less irritation
- Mechanism: Generates free radicals that destroy bacterial cell walls
- Bonus: No bacterial resistance develops, unlike topical antibiotics
Allantoin ~0.5%Proven
A botanical soothing agent derived from comfrey plant. Calms irritation, promotes skin healing, and helps counteract the drying effects of benzoyl peroxide.
- Function: Anti-irritant and skin-conditioning agent
- Benefit: Helps skin retain moisture and promotes cell regeneration
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~0.5%Proven
A humectant and emollient that deeply hydrates skin. Converts to vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) when absorbed, supporting skin barrier repair.
- Function: Attracts and retains moisture in skin
- Benefit: Reduces transepidermal water loss, improves skin texture
Dimethicone & Silicones VariesTexture
A blend of silicones (dimethicone, cyclopentasiloxane, cyclotetrasiloxane) that creates the smooth, silky texture and helps the formula spread evenly.
- Function: Skin conditioning, smooth application, matte finish
- Note: Non-comedogenic individually but may trap oils in some users
20 ingredients
Active: Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5%. Inactive: Water, Ethoxydiglycol, Cyclotetrasiloxane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Propylene Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Panthenol, Allantoin, Xanthan Gum, Ceteareth-20, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Fragrance.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning, before moisturizer. Use morning and/or night. Always follow with sunscreen during daytime.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Wash face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry completely before application.
Apply Thin Layer
Dispense a small amount and apply a thin, even layer to entire affected area—not just spots.
Allow to Dry
Let the treatment absorb for 1-2 minutes before applying moisturizer. Do not rinse off.
Moisturize & Protect
Follow with moisturizer. In the morning, always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne
- You want to prevent future breakouts, not just treat existing ones
- You prefer a lower-strength BP that's less irritating
- You're looking for a leave-on treatment (not a wash)
- You want an all-over treatment, not just spot treatment
- You're a teen or adult with persistent acne
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're pregnant and want a pregnancy-safe option
- You have very sensitive or eczema-prone skin
- You're allergic to benzoyl peroxide or parabens
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You're on a tight budget (more affordable options exist)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESBP helps control excess oil while killing bacteria. The silicone base provides a matte finish.
Great for T-zone application. Can be used all over or targeted to oily, acne-prone areas only.
BP can be drying. Use sparingly, start every other day, and always follow with rich moisturizer.
Contains fragrance and potential sensitizers. Patch test first. Consider fragrance-free alternatives.
Effective for bacterial acne. However, cetearyl alcohol may be comedogenic for some users.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Initial Adjustment Period
Skin may experience mild dryness, peeling, or purging as treatment begins working. Existing blemishes may come to a head faster.
40% notice initial changesVisible Improvement Begins
New breakouts decrease in frequency. Existing acne lesions begin healing. Redness and inflammation start to calm.
65% see noticeable improvementSignificant Clearing
Most users see substantial reduction in acne. Skin texture improves. Consistent use shows cumulative benefits.
75% report clearer skinMaintenance & Prevention
Continue regular use to prevent new breakouts. Many users maintain clear skin with ongoing application.
80% maintain results with continued useRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective at clearing and preventing breakouts
- Lower 2.5% concentration is less irritating than higher strengths
- Micronized formula penetrates pores effectively
- Contains soothing allantoin and panthenol
- Light texture absorbs well under makeup
- Trusted brand with 25+ year track record
- FSA/HSA eligible purchase
Criticized
- Expensive compared to drugstore BP options
- Contains fragrance and parabens
- Not fungal acne safe
- Can bleach fabrics and pillowcases
- May cause dryness and peeling initially
- Small bottle size for the price ($17.50/oz)
- Contains potentially comedogenic ingredients
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESCleaner formula without parabens or fragrance. Same 2.5% BP concentration with allantoin. Fragrance-free and more suitable for sensitive skin.
Fungal acne safe formula with micronized BP. Minimal ingredient list. Great for those with malassezia concerns.
Basic drugstore option with same BP strength. No added soothing ingredients. More affordable but may be more drying.
OTC retinoid alternative for acne. Different mechanism (cell turnover vs. antibacterial). Good for those who can't tolerate BP.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Malezia 2.5% BP Gel
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not store above 77°F (25°C).
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Opaque packaging protects from light degradation.
Yes, 2 fl oz (60ml) is under the TSA 3.4oz liquid limit for carry-on bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQBenzoyl peroxide is FDA Category C for pregnancy—use with caution and consult your healthcare provider. While only about 5% is absorbed systemically, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists lists it as "probably safe" but recommends discussing with your doctor. For breastfeeding, it's considered low risk when applied to face, but avoid the nipple area and prevent infant skin contact with treated areas.
No, this product is NOT safe for fungal acne. It contains dimethicone, cetearyl alcohol, glyceryl stearate, and other ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne. If you have malassezia folliculitis, consider fungal-acne-safe alternatives like Malezia 2.5% BP Gel or Paula's Choice CLEAR 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide.
Use caution when combining with other actives. Benzoyl peroxide can be irritating on its own, and combining with retinol, AHAs, BHAs, or vitamin C may increase dryness and irritation. If you want to use multiple actives, alternate them (BP in AM, retinol in PM) or use on different days. Start slowly and monitor your skin's tolerance. Never combine BP directly with retinoids in the same routine as BP can degrade retinoids.
This treatment is best suited for oily and combination skin types with mild to moderate acne. The silicone-based formula provides a matte finish that works well for oil control. Those with dry or sensitive skin may find it too drying—start with every other day use and always follow with moisturizer. Not recommended for those with fragrance sensitivities or very reactive skin.
Most users see initial improvement within 2-4 weeks with significant clearing by 6-8 weeks. During the first 1-2 weeks, you may experience a "purging" period where existing clogged pores come to a head faster. This is normal. Stick with consistent use for at least 6-8 weeks before evaluating effectiveness. Results vary based on acne severity and individual skin response.
Apply after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer. The routine order is: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Proactiv Repairing Treatment → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only). Apply to dry skin and allow to absorb for 1-2 minutes before layering moisturizer. Use morning and/or night as tolerated.
This product has a moderate comedogenic rating (3/5) due to ingredients like cetearyl alcohol and silicones. While benzoyl peroxide itself is non-comedogenic and helps unclog pores, some users—particularly those prone to clogged pores—may experience breakouts from the base ingredients. If you're highly acne-prone or have experienced issues with fatty alcohols before, consider a simpler formulation like Paula's Choice or Malezia BP treatments.
The product has a 12-month period after opening (PAO). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Benzoyl peroxide can degrade over time, especially when exposed to heat—if the product changes color, smell, or texture, discard it even if within the 12-month window. Recent concerns about benzene formation in BP products suggest proper storage is essential.
Verdict: Proactiv Repairing Treatment is an effective benzoyl peroxide treatment backed by decades of brand trust. The 2.5% micronized BP formula with soothing allantoin and panthenol delivers solid acne-fighting results for most users. However, the premium price ($17.50/oz), presence of fragrance and parabens, and ingredients that aren't fungal-acne-safe mean it's not the best value or cleanest option available today. For the same or less money, Paula's Choice and Malezia offer cleaner, fragrance-free formulas. Best for: those already loyal to Proactiv or seeking an all-in-one treatment with built-in soothing agents. Skip if: you have fungal acne, are budget-conscious, or prefer minimal/clean formulas.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Benzoyl Peroxide
Antiacne Agent, Oxidising Agent
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ethoxydiglycol
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Cyclotetrasiloxane
Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|
|
| 3 |
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|