ADD CONDITION

items per page

Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash

Last content change checked dailysee data sync status

Active ingredient
Salicylic Acid 2 g/100 mL
Other brand names
Dosage form
Lotion/Shampoo
Route
Topical
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2010
Label revision date
January 7, 2026
Active ingredient
Salicylic Acid 2 g/100 mL
Other brand names
Dosage form
Lotion/Shampoo
Route
Topical
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2010
Label revision date
January 7, 2026
Manufacturer
THE PROACTIV COMPANY LLC
Registration number
M006
NDC root
11410-048

If you are a healthcare professional or from the pharmaceutical industry please visit this version.

If you are a consumer or patient please visit this version.

Drug Overview

Proactiv® is a deep cleansing wash designed specifically for the management of acne. Its active ingredient, salicylic acid (a common acne treatment that helps to unclog pores and reduce inflammation), works to cleanse the skin and prevent breakouts. This product is part of a skincare regimen aimed at helping you achieve clearer skin.

Uses

If you're dealing with acne, this medication can help manage your condition effectively. It is specifically designed to treat acne, helping to reduce breakouts and improve the overall appearance of your skin.

You can feel reassured that there are no known teratogenic effects (which means it doesn't cause birth defects) associated with this medication, making it a safer option for those concerned about such risks.

Dosage and Administration

When you start using this product, it's important to test your skin's sensitivity first. For the first three days, apply a small amount to one or two small areas of your skin. If you don’t experience any discomfort, you can proceed with the full application instructions.

To use the product, first, dampen your skin and then apply a small amount. Make sure to cover the entire affected area with a thin layer, and remember to rinse it off thoroughly afterward. Before each use, shake the product well. Initially, you should apply it every other day. If your skin tolerates it well, you can gradually increase to applying it once a day, or follow your doctor's advice. Be cautious, as using it too frequently may lead to excessive dryness. If you notice any bothersome dryness or peeling, reduce your application to every other day.

What to Avoid

It's important to use this product safely. Keep it out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. If you experience severe irritation while using it, stop immediately and consult a doctor. Additionally, be careful to avoid contact with your eyes; if this happens, rinse your eyes thoroughly with water to prevent discomfort.

There are no specific contraindications, controlled substance classifications, or concerns about abuse or dependence associated with this product, but following these guidelines will help ensure your safety.

Side Effects

This product is for external use only. While using it, you may experience skin irritation and dryness, especially if you are using another topical acne medication at the same time. To minimize irritation, it’s best to use only one topical acne treatment at a time. Be careful to avoid contact with your eyes; if this happens, rinse your eyes thoroughly with water.

If you notice that the irritation becomes severe, stop using the product and consult a doctor. Additionally, keep this product out of reach of children. If swallowed, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Warnings and Precautions

This product is for external use only, so please avoid applying it to any areas other than your skin. If you are using another topical acne medication, be cautious, as this can increase the chances of skin irritation and dryness. If you experience irritation, it’s best to stop using all topical acne treatments and consult your doctor.

Make sure to keep the product away from your eyes. If it accidentally gets into your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with water. If you notice severe irritation, stop using the product and reach out to your doctor for advice.

In case of accidental swallowing, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center for assistance. Your safety is important, so please take these precautions seriously.

Overdose

If you or someone else has swallowed too much of a medication, it’s important to seek medical help immediately. You can do this by contacting a Poison Control Center or going to the nearest emergency room. Acting quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to get help right away. Remember, it’s always better to be safe and seek assistance if you suspect an overdose.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it's important to be cautious with the use of salicylic acid. The safety of this ingredient during pregnancy has not been established, and it is contraindicated due to potential risks to your developing baby. There is a possibility of teratogenic effects, which means it could cause developmental issues in the fetus.

To ensure your safety and that of your baby, you should avoid using products containing salicylic acid unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider. Always consult with your healthcare professional before using any new products during pregnancy.

Lactation Use

If you are breastfeeding, you can feel reassured that there are no specific warnings or recommendations regarding the use of this product while nursing. Additionally, there is no information available about whether this product is passed into breast milk or if it poses any risk to your infant. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about medications while breastfeeding.

Pediatric Use

It's important to keep this medication out of reach of children. If a child accidentally swallows it, you should seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. Taking quick action can help ensure their safety. Always be vigilant and store medications securely to prevent any accidents.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash, there is no specific information available about how it may affect older adults. This means that there are no special dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or precautions outlined for elderly patients.

If you are an older adult or a caregiver, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new skincare product. They can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and conditions.

Renal Impairment

It appears that there is no specific information available regarding dosage adjustments, monitoring, or safety considerations for patients with kidney problems. This means that if you have renal impairment (kidney issues), you should consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help determine the best course of action based on your individual health needs and any medications you may be taking. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor about your kidney health to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that there are no specific guidelines or dosage adjustments mentioned for your condition in the available information. This means that the standard recommendations apply, but you should always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help determine the best approach for your treatment and monitor your liver function as needed.

Make sure to keep your doctor informed about your liver health, as they may need to conduct regular tests to ensure your safety while using any medication. Your well-being is a priority, so don't hesitate to ask questions or express any concerns you may have.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications or tests you may be taking. While there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted for this medication, your healthcare provider can help ensure that everything you are taking works well together and is safe for you. Always share your complete list of medications and any recent lab tests to avoid any potential issues. Your health and safety should always come first.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best quality and safety of your product, store it at room temperature in a cool, dry place. It's important to keep the container tightly closed to prevent contamination and maintain its effectiveness. Additionally, protect the product from light, as exposure can affect its quality. Once you open the container, be sure to discard any unused product to avoid potential safety risks. Following these guidelines will help you use the product safely and effectively.

Additional Information

You will apply this product topically, which means you put it directly on your skin. If you're using it for the first time, start by applying a small amount to one or two small areas for the first three days to check for any sensitivity. If you don’t experience any discomfort, you can follow the full application instructions.

To use the product, apply a small amount to damp skin, covering the affected area with a thin layer, and rinse thoroughly afterward. It's important to shake the product before use. To avoid excessive drying of your skin, begin with one application every other day, and you can gradually increase to daily use as directed by your doctor. If you notice bothersome dryness or peeling, reduce your usage back to every other day.

FAQ

What is Proactiv®?

Proactiv® is a deep cleansing wash designed for the management of acne.

What is the active ingredient in Proactiv®?

The active ingredient in Proactiv® is salicylic acid, which is used as an acne treatment.

How should I use Proactiv®?

Apply a small amount to dampened skin, cover the affected area with a thin layer, and rinse thoroughly. Start with one application every other day and gradually increase to daily use as tolerated.

What should I do if I experience irritation while using Proactiv®?

If irritation becomes severe, stop using the product and consult a doctor.

Is Proactiv® safe to use during pregnancy?

Salicylic acid is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus, so consult a healthcare provider before use.

Can I use Proactiv® while breastfeeding?

There are no specific warnings regarding the use of Proactiv® by nursing mothers, but consult a healthcare professional for advice.

What precautions should I take when using Proactiv®?

Avoid contact with eyes, keep out of reach of children, and do not use if irritation occurs with other topical acne medications.

How should I store Proactiv®?

Store Proactiv® at room temperature, keep the container tightly closed, and protect it from light.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash (salicylic acid). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

No description information is available for the specified drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the management of acne.

There are no teratogenic effects associated with this medication. Additionally, no nonteratogenic effects have been reported.

Dosage and Administration

For new users, it is recommended to perform a sensitivity test by applying the product sparingly to one or two small affected areas for the first three days. If no discomfort is experienced, the following dosing instructions may be initiated.

The product should be applied to dampened skin. A small amount should be used to cover the entire affected area with a thin layer, followed by thorough rinsing. It is important to shake the product well before use.

Initially, the application frequency should be set at one application every other day. This can be gradually increased to one application daily, or as directed by a healthcare professional. Caution is advised, as excessive drying of the skin may occur.

In the event that bothersome dryness or peeling develops, the frequency of application should be reduced to every other day.

Contraindications

Use is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Keep out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.

  • Discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if irritation becomes severe, as this may indicate an adverse reaction.

  • Avoid contact with eyes; in the event of contact, rinse eyes thoroughly with water to mitigate potential irritation.

Warnings and Precautions

For external use only.

Skin irritation and dryness may be exacerbated when used concurrently with other topical acne medications. It is recommended that only one topical acne treatment be utilized at a time to minimize the risk of irritation. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to avoid contact with the eyes; in the event of accidental contact, patients should rinse their eyes thoroughly with water.

Patients are instructed to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if they experience severe irritation. In cases of ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the patient should contact a Poison Control Center without delay.

Side Effects

Patients using this product should be aware that it is for external use only. The most common adverse reactions associated with its use include skin irritation and dryness, particularly when used concurrently with other topical acne medications. To minimize the risk of irritation, it is advised that patients use only one topical acne medication at a time.

In the event of severe irritation, patients are instructed to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, care should be taken to avoid contact with the eyes; should contact occur, it is recommended to rinse the eyes thoroughly with water.

It is crucial to keep this product out of reach of children. If ingested, patients should seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with this medication. Additionally, there is no information available regarding interactions with laboratory tests. As such, no specific recommendations for dosage adjustments or monitoring are warranted at this time.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash (salicylic acid). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients should be advised to keep this medication out of reach of children. In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted without delay.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information regarding the use of Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash in geriatric patients. The prescribing information does not indicate any dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions that are specifically applicable to elderly patients. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise clinical judgment when considering the use of this product in patients aged 65 and older, as individual patient factors may influence treatment decisions. Monitoring for any adverse effects or reactions is advisable, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

The safety of salicylic acid during pregnancy has not been established. Salicylic acid is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus, including the risk of teratogenic effects associated with its use. Pregnant women should avoid the use of this product unless directed by a healthcare provider. It is recommended that women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant consult a healthcare professional before using this product to discuss potential risks and benefits.

Lactation

There are no specific warnings or recommendations regarding the use of this product by lactating mothers. Additionally, there is no information available about the potential for excretion in breast milk or any associated risks to breastfed infants during the use of this product.

Renal Impairment

There is no information available regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for patients with renal impairment. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing to patients with reduced kidney function, as the absence of specific guidance necessitates careful clinical judgment.

Hepatic Impairment

There is no information available regarding the use of this medication in patients with hepatic impairment. Consequently, there are no dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions specified for individuals with compromised liver function. Healthcare professionals should exercise clinical judgment when considering the use of this medication in patients with liver problems, as the absence of data does not preclude the need for careful evaluation and monitoring in this population.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdosage, immediate medical assistance is crucial. If the substance is ingested, healthcare professionals should advise patients or caregivers to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center without delay.

Prompt intervention is essential to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with overdosage. Symptoms may vary depending on the specific substance involved; therefore, a thorough assessment by a medical professional is recommended to determine the appropriate course of action.

Management procedures may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the individual patient's needs. It is imperative that healthcare providers remain vigilant and prepared to address any complications that may arise from an overdosage scenario.

Nonclinical Toxicology

No teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects have been reported in the available nonclinical studies. Additionally, there is no information regarding animal pharmacology and toxicology. The absence of data in these areas limits the understanding of the compound's potential effects in nonclinical settings.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert text.

Patient Counseling

Patients should be advised to keep this product out of reach of children. In the event of accidental ingestion, they should seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if they experience severe irritation.

When using this product, it is important to inform patients that skin irritation and dryness may be more pronounced if they are using another topical acne medication concurrently. Therefore, they should only use one topical acne medication at a time to minimize the risk of irritation.

Additionally, patients should be cautioned to avoid contact with the eyes. If contact occurs, they should rinse their eyes thoroughly with water to prevent potential complications.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in a container that must be kept tightly closed to maintain its integrity. It should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light exposure to ensure optimal stability. Once opened, the product should be discarded to prevent any potential degradation or contamination.

Additional Clinical Information

The product is administered topically. For new users, it is recommended to apply the product sparingly to one or two small affected areas during the first three days to assess for any discomfort. If no adverse reactions occur, patients should apply a small amount to dampened skin, covering the entire affected area with a thin layer and rinsing thoroughly afterward. It is advised to shake the product before use.

To minimize the risk of excessive skin drying, patients should begin with one application every other day, gradually increasing to daily use or as directed by a healthcare professional. If bothersome dryness or peeling develops, patients should reduce the frequency of application to every other day.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

Learn more in our Editorial Policy

Last AI update:

Primary FDA sources:

Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.