Product Review - Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control

Hey Coffeeholics! Yes its that time again to share to you my latest update about my war against Acne. Unfortunately this last month has put a toll on me and my skin. Lack of sleep and stress at work (a teacher's work at the end of the quarter is NOT easy.. aka report cards) has taken its toll on my face. But the good news is, Proactiv sent me something to try out -- the Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control.

But before I share more on that, let me tell you the other half of the good news that Proactiv has for us. They have a promo right now which started last July 15 and will end this December 31, 2014.
The promo is that whenever you buy the Proactive 60-Day Kit Limited Edition pack, you get an an upsized Refining Mask (from 1oz to 2.5oz) and a FREE Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control at 50ml all for the same price of Php 3,995 only.

What is the Proactiv 60-Day Limited Edition Pack?
The Proactiv 60-Day Kit Limited Edition pack is complete set of Proactiv 60-day supply,
with an upsized Refining Mask (from 1oz to 2.5oz) and Free Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil
Control 50ml - all for the same price of Php 3,995 only.

Contents:
Proactiv Renewing Cleanser 120ml (inside the box)
Proactiv Revitalizing Toner 120ml (inside the box)
Proactiv Repairing Treatment 60ml (inside the box)
Proactiv Refining Mask – upsized from 1oz to 2.5oz (inside the box)
Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control (shrink-wrapped with the box)

This promo pack is exclusively available at Watsons and SM Department Stores (Beauty
Section) nationwide. These special packs are specially marked with a red sticker on the upper
rightmost corner of the box. Make sure to ask for it as items on display at Watsons or SM
may be non-promo packs or dummy boxes only.

So I guess you're probably wondering what's the big deal with the Free Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control (50ml). Well according to Proactiv, the Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control is designed to absorb excess oil to help give a more mattified appearance while helping to assist the skin in the fight against acne. This lightweight, oil-free moisturizer helps the skin to remain soft, smooth and hydrated without looking or feeling greasy, giving way to a more satiny, flawless looking complexion. It helps control excess oil throughout the day to keep skin from shining and makeup from streaking, and gently balances the skin while keeping your skin hydrated and healthy looking.

How to use the Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control: 
1. Apply daily or as needed onto clean skin.
2. Use fingertips to gently apply a thin layer to the entire face.
3. Allow to dry completely.
4. For best results, use after Repairing Treatment.

 

So of course, since I've been dealing with my oily face like forever -- I really was thrilled to try out the Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control. Finding the right moisturizer for my oily face is tough as it is already. The only apprehensions that I have with "Oil Control" moisturizers was that it would dry out my face. The directions on the back of the product mentioned to cover the entire affected area with a thin layer one to three times a day. With this in mind, I decided to test the product not on my whole face but to my oily zone which was the upper lip and chin area. Most of the oily face issue I have is on that area and my forehead. But the acne warzone was basically the mouth area and I wanted to target that. Also for the first time to test it, I decided to try it out at night. Since you can actually apply the product three times a day, I wanted to see how it worked at night (yes.. even at night guys.. my oily issues does not go away!) and later on try it on during the day with makeup on. So the following photo was 2 hours after I washed my face and put some of the Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control on my face.

Makeup free face with some of the Advanced Daily Oil Control
applied on my upper lip and chin area (aka zit zone)
Yes, its not shiny unlike my cheeks which
DID NOT HAVE any of the Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control. 

I also tried the product for several days, and it does its work. I tried up to 2 times a day application and I even noticed that some of my pimples dry up faster (many thanks to the salicylic acid acne treatment). If you have a lot of acne and don't wear makeup, but want to avoid having a shiny face -- then this product is definitely for you! If you wear makeup, don't worry. It doesn't dry up the skin (it targets the acne only believe me) and it makes your makeup last a bit longer because of the less oil buildup. :) Yay! So definitely, this is a great product to have with your Proactiv 60-day Product Kit.
Using the Proactiv Advanced Daily Oil Control is now part of my skincare and makeup routine. Hope you all coffeeholics and beauty lovers get to try out this and Proactiv as well. :)

Treat Acne with Proactiv that has Benzoyl Peroxide

Dear Diary (otherwise known as you my dear coffeeholic readers who sympathize with me), Acne has come visiting again. Almost every month I share with you on what's happening with my war against acne. Unfortunately for me, its been acting up again. I blame it on barely sleeping nights, lack of water, aaaaand this month I'm kind of guilty of not being faithful in my skin care cleansing routine. Which is bad coz now I'm reaping the effects of not using it.

Skin care products and medications, especially to treat acne are growing steadily in the market. I totally understand coz who wouldn't want clear, beautiful, acne-free skin? It's crazy how there are so many products out there in all forms, shape, and size. The no. 1 question though is -- do these products really treat acne?

For years now, the gold standard of treating mild to moderate acne is the benzoyl peroxide. This is because it is a topical antimicrobial medicine, an oxidizing agent that specifically kills P. acnes, the bacteria that cause acne breakouts. To a lesser extent, it also helps to unblock pores and has an anti-inflammatory effect. BPO is not an antibiotic, and in 50 years of use, there has never been a documented case of BPO bacterial resistance; it is the cornerstone of prescription and over-the-counter acne therapy.

And Proactiv Solution knows that.

That’s why Proactiv Solution has Micro-crystals (micro-crystal medicine) benzoyl peroxide!
The exclusive form of benzoyl peroxide (BPO) found in the Proactiv 3-Step System’s Renewing Cleanser (Step 1) and Repairing Treatment (Step 3). A crystalline BPO that is finely milled in order to achieve the pore penetration required to control the acne cycle. The Proactiv micro-crystal BPO features exceptionally small and uniform particles—designed specifically to penetrate pores faster and to be gentler on the skin.

OTHER WAYS TO TREAT ACNE

PROACTIV SOLUTION VS SOAP
While it may seem counter-intuitive, harsh scrubbing does not unclog your pores any better than gentle cleansing, and may actually worsen your acne. Cleansing and scrubbing only reduce surface oils and dead skin cells. Many people use harsh products, laden with alcohol and foamy surfactants (detergents) somehow wash the acne off their skin. However, these actions often produce irritation and worsen acne. That happened to me once and it felt like my face burned. Never again! Now, it is possible to gently unplug pores with fine polyethylene beads that gently relieve impacted pores without irritation.

Proactiv Solution does not contain any surfactants that can harsh the skin. This is a relief to know.

Proactiv® Renewing Cleanser is formulated without the harsh detergents, known as surfactants, found in many other cleansers. Surfactants, which are responsible for a sudsy foam and lather, strip skin of its essential oils. As a result, the skin’s barrier becomes damaged and vulnerable to irritation and infection.

PROACTIV SOLUTION VS SALICYLIC ACID
Salicylic acid in a cleanser breaks through the plug but does not kill the P. acnes bacteria, the bacteria that cause acne breakouts.

Acne is caused by a variety of factors that take place below the surface of the skin. That’s why it’s best to gently wash with a medicated cleanser with proven ingredients, like benzoyl peroxide, or sulfur, that can penetrate the skin to help unclog pores, kill bacteria and/or reduce inflammation.

PROACTIV SOLUTION VS. ORAL DRUGS
When acne is severe, dermatologists sometimes prescribe oral drugs like isotretinoin or hormonal pills.

There are studies that support that these methods are extremely effective for severe cases, but because of the nature of these drugs there are side effects that make it questionable if the benefits truly outweigh the cost. For example, there were reports in 2010 linking suicidal tendencies and psychotic behaviors among acne patients on isotretinoin. Hormonal pills, which are mainly indicated as a contraceptive sometimes causes water retention, weight gain, mood swings, and in the long run, even breast cancer.

Proactiv Solution does not have these side effects!

With all these information about the advantages of using Proactiv, then of course my advise to you who seeks relief from acne is to try it yourself. Proactiv is SAFE and EFFECTIVE in preventing acne because of Benzoyl Peroxide. It's gentle on your skin unlike harsh soaps. It is more effective than Salicylic Acid coz it kills the root cause. And much much safer than oral drugs. Go ahead and free yourself from acne problems with the help of Proactiv. 

For more information, do visit the Proactiv Website.

Book Review - The Doctors' Secrets to a Lifetime of Clear Skin

I've a confession to make. I'm a bookworm. Yep, not just any book lover but a bookworm. Like to the point that I won't sleep until I've finished the book kind of bookworm. I read novels, educational books, and even self-help kind of books. You know the saying Knowledge is Power? I believe that reading books has helped shape me to what I am today. LOL. Well I did gobble up books like candy when I was in high school and college. I'm not that of a bookworm anymore unless I stumble upon a really REALLY good book! 

Good thing I didn't have to pull an all nighter when I got my hands on The Doctors' Secrets to a Lifetime of Clear Skin. Oh boy I was hooked! This is indeed one very cool informative book that I wish I had even way back when I was a teenager. Like I've mentioned before, my war with acne has been in existence since puberty. And if I had read this book when I was teen, I think some of my fears, worries, and expectations would have been put to ease thanks to this book. Most of our self-image or self-esteem issues stem from this period of time in our lies. We face a society that takes value of our physical appearance. Whether we like it or not. Yes its not fair. But what do we do? We deal with it. Same with Acne. We have to learn how to deal with it. And this book definitely would help both me and you who have to face the trials, horrors, and despair of Acne. (haha, ok drama much sorry.. may pinaghuhugutan?!)

The Doctors' Secret to a Lifetime of Clear Skin is written by Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields two of the world's renowned experts on giving people with acne their best opportunity to enjoy a lifetime of smooth, clear, healthy-looking skin. Yes as stated at the back cover of this book, it is FUN-to-read and has a SHORT-and-sweet style. If you quickly scan this booklet, you will see 30 vital "nuggets" of skin-care knowledge that will guide you throughout your life without acne. The booklet (it is smaller than it looks on the photo!) has only 67 pages. It is a  light read. In fact you would probably be done with it an hour or less. 

I would like to quote what Drs. Rodan and Fields said in their introduction. "In your fight against acne, KNOWLEDGE is a key weapon." So here's a small sample on what kind of "weapons" you will be stocking up with this book.

The book doesn't really have any chapters. For each "Nugget" of skin-care wisdom - the book has assigned two pages on it. And it is delivered in a very down-to-earth and in a matter-of-fact tone. It is not an intimidating scientific read. Anyone can relate to it! Most of the popular acne-related questions are answered in this book. Myths are also disproved. It also addresses some major concerns like what you should and should not eat. Yes my dears, you can now tell your chums and your parents that chocolate DOES NOT cause Acne. Hehe.  

It also warns you on what you should NEVER do. Listen to your mom kids. Do not pop that zit. Seriously. And of course it  also gives you encouragement and reassurances that you aren't alone and that acne can be controlled. Its not the end of the world. :) 

Another thing I liked about the book is whenever a medical term is used -- it is explained in layman's terms! You have no idea how grateful I am for that. It is practical talk and easy to understand. And I'm sure teenagers would find this very enlightening! Well who wouldn't want to be assured right? As obviously stated in #14 - A Pimple is Not Simple. 

At the end of the book, this reassuring statement and challenge is given -- "The key to your success will be staying committed... and staying with your routine once you are clear". With all the advise shelled out in this book, it is still up to you if you will act on it in order for you to have a lifetime of clear skin.

So Coffeeholics do I recommend this booklet? YES YES and YES! I've learned a lot and you will too! If you are battling acne or maybe have a score to settle with pimples, well this book is for you. This books is indeed life changing. And it would be a great gift for Christmas too.

About the Book

The Doctors' Secrets to a Lifetime of Clear Skin by Drs. Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields comes FREE with every purchase of Practiv 30-day or 60-day kit from Watsons, SM Department Stores, Proactiv mall kiosks, and Proactiv door-to-door delivery. The book is included in the kit. 

For more information, do visit the Proactiv Website or Proactiv Facebook.

The PROACTIV Solution to Acne Problems

There are days when I want to avoid looking at the mirror. I don't know if you feel the same way too on occasion. But don't you just hate it when World War 3 (aka THE ZIT WARS) erupts on your face? Gah. I hate it and get frustrated when it does. I have this very bad bad urge to pop them all off (which sometimes I do and thats realllllllllly BAD BAD don't do that. It can cause scars!) or wish that I could photoshop my face in real life -- a quick way to say goodbye to the pimples on my face. I'm way over my teen stage yet I still have acne which is quite frustrating. I want the zit wars to end!

I'm not thrilled showing my face with all these acne or pimples. But whose perfect anyway?
No Makeup. No filter. No photo editing. This is reality. I get acne. *huhuhu*

So when I heard of Proactiv from a friend, it really got me interested. She swears that Proactiv did wonders for her! It cleared her skin from acne. And I really saw the acne has indeed lessened in her face. Her face is now bright and clear. She super recommended it to me. This was several years ago before Proactiv became readily available here! So when I was given a chance to try out Proactiv, I was thrilled. So I bet you are wondering as well, what makes Proactiv the perfect solution to acne problems? Knowledge is power my dears. So I wanna share what I've learned about acne.

Proactive Solution to Acne Problems! 

ALL ABOUT ACNE. 

Did you know that an acne blemish begins approximately 2-3 weeks before it appears on your skin's surface? When I found that out I nearly fell off my chair. And here I thought that its coz puyat ako kagabi! (slept real late last night). :P Apparently, pimples don't just appear overnight. A pimple is the final stage of a much longer process. Wahaaaat! It starts in your sebaceous hair follicles – the tiny holes you know as pores. Deep within each follicle, your sebaceous glands are working to produce sebum, the oil that keeps your skin moist and pliable. As your skin renews itself, the old cells die, mix with your skin's natural oils, and are sloughed off. Under normal circumstances, these cells are shed gradually, making room for fresh new skin.

Dead skin cells may block the pores, resulting to over-accumulation of oil underneath. (Which really explains a lot on what's happening on my face. Wah!) Bacteria that live on the skin naturally begin to grow and multiply in this site, triggering an inflammatory response causing a red, angry pore that we see as pimple already at the tail-end of the acne formation process. So my dear concerned coffeeholics, this clearly explains the reason for the zit wars. I've got an oily face type. So now what? Its a good thing that Proactiv gives us a solution for these acne problems! Drs. Rodan and Fields believed that in their Proactiv 3-Step System -- acne management is achievable.

  

Proactive Solution prevents acne at the root cause and destroys the acne cycle:

1. The Proactiv Renewing Cleanser (Step 1) and the Proactiv Revitalizing Toner (Step 2) works by removing dead skin cells, ensuring that the pores don’t get clogged.
2. The Proactiv Revitalizing Toner (Step 2) removes excess oils too, eliminating food for bacteria.
3. The Proactiv Renewing Cleanser (Step 1) and the Proactiv Repairing Treatment (Step 3) kills the bacteria and prevent proliferation
4. The Free Refining Mask helps reduce the inflammation and swelling.

Makes sense eh? Personally, I've tried all sorts of acne treatments throughout the years because of this oily face of mine. So why is Proactiv superior to other treatment methods? Well I've personally tried a lot of treatments and yes, sadly, most of these treatments are reactive. Usually it just treats the tail end of the acne formation process. These treatments often leave scars or dark marks, and do nothing to prevent future breakouts.

Overnight Spot Treatment. I've tried overnight spot treatments. I mean, yeah it kinda worked. It did dry up the acne as fast as it could (time duration is not consistent though). But still it will leave a mark on my face coz the content of the product can cause hyper pigmentation (yep those black marks on my face aren't actually zits but leftover marks from previous acne activity.. wahhh!). You see those products most likely contain high concentration benzoyl peroxide at 5% or 10% which kill the acne bacteria, BUT results to redness or irritation. But with Proactiv Solution, it only contains 2.5% benzoyl peroxide, a safe and effective concentration which makes it OK for daily use and may be applied to the whole face. With Proactiv’s Advanced Microcrystal technology, eradicating bacteria is faster and gentler than common spot treatments.

Spot The Dark Marks. >> In my frustration, I usually edit them out before I post my photos here.
Now you all know my lil dark secret. XD :P

Topical Antibiotics. Doctors need to supervise people using antibiotics because the long term use of antibiotics in general may cause bacterial resistance – making the person “immune” to the benefits of the active ingredient. To Proactiv users, you don't have to worry about that at all! Proactiv Solution will never have bacterial resistance because it does not contain an antibiotic, but rather an anti-microbial agent. It is safe for long term use for the treatment and prevention of acne.

Oral Drugs. When acne is severe, dermatologists sometimes prescribe oral drugs like isotretinoin or hormonal pills. I've tried hormonal pills before. According to my ob-gyn, part of the reason for my acne is because of my hormones. So there was a time I was prescribed with hormonal pills which yes it indeed improved my skin condition. Downside? THE SIDE EFFECTS. The doctor warned me that I can only drink the pills for several months only or risk being barren. So of course I stopped using it!

So yeah, there are indeed studies that support that these methods are extremely effective for severe cases, but because of the nature of these drugs there are side effects that make it questionable if the benefits truly outweigh the cost. For example, there were reports in 2010 linking suicidal tendencies and psychotic behaviors among acne patients on isotretinoin. Hormonal pills, which are mainly indicated as a contraceptive sometimes causes water retention, weight gain, mood swings, and in the long run, even breast cancer.

So it is a relief to know that PROACTIV SOLUTION DOES NOT HAVE THESE SIDE EFFECTS!

Derm Clinic Injections. The Philippine Dermatological Society is campaigning for awareness among Filipinos to patronize only the services of highly qualified doctors, and not to be too trusting of attendants who may not have the proper training and experience to do this. This type of procedure is extremely painful, and when done by inexperienced hands, may cause scars for life. And because acne is a cyclical condition, recurring acne imposes recurring painful injections.

Proactiv Solution is gentle on you. With advanced micronized benzoyl peroxide and ingredients designed by Doctors Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields, your journey to clear skin is one that does not incite pain.

Custom Derm Packs. The promise of acne’s miracle cure comes in different shapes, sizes, and prices. But do not always think that designer packs that costs Php 10,000 in expensive clinics are great! Expensive acne systems often do not have the backing of massive consumer trial from all over the world, and you end up being a guinea pig.

Money does not grow in trees. We work so hard for it. So we do really want to have our money's worth when we buy a certain product. It really is frustrating for me to buy a product that swears that it will do something but doesn't. Sayang ang pera!

Since Proactiv Solution is the world’s number 1 anti-acne. I HAVE NO WORRIES. Millions of customers worldwide can testify on how effective Proactiv is, including Hollywood superstars. Proactiv even dares you to try it risk free – you get your money back if you’re not happy.

I think that's one of the best guarantees a product can give you - a full money back guarantee. Proactive Solution is FDA registered as safe over-the-counter product. And it is available at Watson Stores nationwide, SM Department Stores (Beauty Section) nationwide, Proactiv Mall Kiosks located at The New Glorietta Mall GF, Trinoma Mall 2nd Floor, and Marquee Mall GF.

So if you are looking for the best acne solution, why not try Proactiv Solution! Check out their site at http://my.proactiv.com.ph for more information. Let's live a life free from Acne! :)

Justin Bieber for Proactiv

As you all know, I'm always on the lookout for the perfect skincare treatment what with me on a constant battle with my zit zone. Though it has considerably tamed since the last time I've talked about this, the fact is that acne still breaks out on my face. Its disheartening. Now I'm seriously thinking if I should really invest in Proactiv. I've seen it and heard about it but I have never tried it.

Proactiv 30-day Kit

Proactiv Solution boasts as the #1 anti-acne system in America and is now here in the Philippines. I guess it is popular enough to be confident enough to make its mark here in the Philippines. Check out the Proactiv Testimonials section, you could probably understand why. Even Justin Bieber himself swears on Proactive! Watch him talk all about it here:

Justin Bieber for Proactiv--definitely makes sense! After all, he is still a teenager who still undergoes the same skin problems just like all the other teens out there. For clear skin, Justin Bieber uses the Proactiv 3-Step System Products which comes in a 30-Day Kit and in a 60-Day Kit.

Proactiv 60-day kit.

The website states that as a CombinationTherapy™ system, Proactiv Solution doesn't just clear your acne but also helps prevent pimples from coming back! I know that sounds too good to be true right? But Proactiv takes acne seriously, so seriously that they have a Money Back Guarantee if you don't get Clear Skin. I guess this is what makes Proactiv different from all the other skin care products out there. If they have enough confidence in themselves to guarantee our money back if it doesn't work, surely Proactiv is indeed worth the try eh? 

Justin Bieber's Girlfriend Perfume

Anyway there's good news for all Bieber fans out there. Proactiv Solution is joining the Bieber Fever this August to October and they're giving away the much talked about Justin Bieber's Girlfriend Perfume and Laptop Case. All interested buyers have to do is purchase their Proactiv Kit so they will get the chance to win these exciting items.

Justin Bieber's Girlfriend Laptop Case

PROMO MECHANICS:

Promo Period: August 15 - October 15, 2012

Raffle Date: October 19, 2012

HOW TO JOIN:

Customer can buy either a Proactiv 30-Day Kit or Proactiv 60-day kit from any of the participating outlets:

• Door to Door Delivery Hotlines Door to Door delivery Hotlines (729-2222, 1-800-8-729-8888, 1-800-10-889-4444, 0917-801-8888), customer’s given Account Name as per Proactiv’s official Customer Database shall be entitled with the raffle entry.

• Proactiv Mall Kiosks at Glorietta, Ground Floor; Trinoma, 2nd Floor; Robinsons Galleria, 3rd Floor; and Marquee Mall, Ground Floor.

         For Proactiv Mall Kiosk purchases, customer must fill-out the Official Raffle Entry Form          with the following details: Customer Name, Customer Address, Customer Contact Number, Product Purchased,  Date of Purchase, OR Number, Signature of Customer, and Signature of Promodizer. 

         The Official Raffle Entry Form must be submitted to the Proactiv Promodiser in charge  to qualify for the raffle.

• All Watson's outlets or SM Department Store Branches.

For purchases at Watsons or SM Department Stores - Customers can read the promo mechanics posted in Proactiv Solution Philippines Facebook Page. Customer needs to send a scanned copy of their Watsons or SM Official Receipt together with their name and contact number to any of the following addresses:

Email: customer@proactiv.com.ph

Fax No.: 02 – 729-  4444

Regular Mail: ATTN: Proactiv Solution, 17F, Tower 2, RCBC Plaza, Ayala Ave cor Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City

*** Top American Products Solution Inc must receive the entry before the raffle date, October 19, 2012. All entries received after the raffle date will be automatically disqualified.

• Customer must buy any of the participating Proactiv kit SKUs within the prescribed promo period. Purchases of Proactiv Kits outside the promo period are not eligible to have a raffle entry equivalent.

•  If a customer avails of the standard limited Money back Guarantee that comes with every Proactiv 30-day or 60-day kit, this forfeits the subsequent activation of his or her raffle ticket entry. If the customer won and subsequently availed of the Money Back Guarantee after claiming the prize, the actual cost of the perfume and the laptop bag will be deducted to the refund value.

•  Every purchase of Proactiv Solution 30-day kit is equivalent to one (1) Raffle Entry and every purchase of Proactiv Solution 60-day kit is equivalent to two (2) Raffle Entries

CONDITIONS OF THE PRIZE

• The Prize is not convertible to cash and or other Proactiv products.

• Winners from Metro Manila must personally pick up the prize at Top American Products Solution, Inc office (17th Flr. Tower 2, RCBC Plaza, 6819 Ayala cor. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City Philippines) and present a valid ID and official receipt upon claiming.

• For winners outside Metro Manila, they can claim the prize personally or request for the prizes to be mailed subject to compliance to the following conditions: 

     1. They need to provide a valid email address capable to receive ff: (1) Acknowledgement Receipt, (2) Waiver of Rights for marketing promotion. Customer must print, sign, and email back these two documents

      2. Customer must attach to this email a scanned copy of any Government issued ID, plus a close-up photo to be used for future Proactiv Solution marketing materials.

       3. They need to provide the correct mailing address. Top American Products Solutions Inc. will shoulder the mailing expense for the prizes. Any return to sender event will forfeit the prize.

     4. Failure to comply with all of these conditions for winners outside Metro Manila will cause forfeiture of prize without further notice.