Benzoyl Peroxide

• The Renewing Cleanser and the Repairing Treatment in the Proactiv system both contain 2.5 percent benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide is a topical medication that may cause stinging, tingling, or burning sensations.
  
  

Allergic Reaction

• About 5 percent of the population may experience an allergic reaction when using benzoyl peroxide.
  
  

Frequency

• If you experience irritation when using Proactiv, reduce the number of times you apply it to once a day or every other day.
  
  

Other Factors

• Avoid using anything that could irritate your skin, such as abrasive soaps, certain types of cosmetics, or other acne treatments at the same time. This could exacerbate burning and discomfort when using Proactiv.
  
  

Options

• If you continue to feel a burning sensation when you use Proactiv or you know that you are sensitive to benzoyl peroxide, stop using it. Over-the-counter acne treatments that contain salicylic acid, sulfur, or rescorcinol may cause less irritation to your skin.