# Proactiv Repairing Treatment for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Caution fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Caution · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Kingdom.

Brand: [Proactiv](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/proactiv)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A poor match for dry sensitive skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate treatment for acne-prone skin, but the presence of Benzoyl Peroxide may be overly drying and irritating for your dry and sensitive skin, lacking sufficient emollient and humectant ingredients to counteract its effects.
- While Benzoyl Peroxide offers moderate exfoliation for dry or flaky skin, its drying nature can potentially worsen sensitivity.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Benzoyl Peroxide, Allantoin, Panthenol, Dimethicone, Glyceryl Stearate

## What the research says

- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- Topical benzoyl peroxide may improve acne more effectively than placebo or no treatment, while showing little to no difference compared with adapalene or clindamycin, but with an increased risk of treatment discontinuation due to adverse effects compared to placebo. ([The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/))
- Once-daily fixed-dose clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/benzoyl peroxide 3.1%/adapalene 0.15% gel achieved superior treatment success (52.5%) and greater reductions in inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions compared to vehicle (8.1%) and dyad component gels in participants with moderate-to-severe acne over 12 weeks. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34674160/))
- Topical gel containing chitosan, 0.2% chlorhexidine, allantoin and dexpanthenol did not improve postoperative comfort regarding swelling and pain, but improved the wound's aesthetic appearance following impacted lower third molar extraction compared to no gel. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27475700/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- An overnight patch containing Allium cepa extract and allantoin safely promotes scar healing after dermatologic surgery, resulting in significantly greater reductions in observer- and patient-assessed POSAS scores compared to no treatment. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29948103/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Wearing an N95 mask alone compared to using dimethicone cream or hydrocolloid dressing caused more adverse skin reactions among 73 military health care workers, with no significant differences in fit test failure rates between groups. ([Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/))
- A dimethicone skin protectant lotion significantly decreased visual scoring and transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control and SLS-only treated sites in 12 healthy humans exposed to sodium lauryl sulfate. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11428946/))
- Treatment with a moisturizer containing dimethicone and glycerine increased epidermal thickness by 0.019 mm, improved barrier function by decreasing transepidermal water loss by 13%, decreased melanin intensity, and induced keratins 6 and 16 in fifteen women with moderately photoaged forearms. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17137484/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users find this benzoyl peroxide lotion highly effective for clearing stubborn and cystic acne, often achieving results where other products have failed. It is frequently noted to be harsh on sensitive skin, causing dryness or peeling, and users should be cautious as it can bleach fabrics.

- Disliked: Bleaches fabrics (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears stubborn acne (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Drying and irritating (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast acting results (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Prevents future breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Expensive for size (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Smooths skin texture (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this PM routine for your evening skincare. Start using the serum 3 times a week and increase to daily use if your skin feels comfortable.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer. This step locks in deep hydration for dry skin.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin using your palms. Let it absorb completely for a minute ⏱ before applying your next product.
- Since your skin is sensitive, apply the serum on completely dry skin for better tolerance and less irritation.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Always do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin reacts well.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why does Lovi advise caution with Proactiv Repairing Treatment for dry sensitive skin?

Benzoyl Peroxide may be overly drying and irritating for your dry and sensitive skin, and the product lacks sufficient ingredients that add moisture and soothe to counteract its effects. A treatment for this skin needs nourishing and hydrating ingredients that protect the skin barrier without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34674160/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a poor fit for dry sensitive skin?

Benzoyl Peroxide makes this treatment a poor fit for your skin because it may be overly drying and irritating for dry sensitive skin. A treatment for this skin needs plenty of soothing and moisturizing ingredients to keep the skin comfortable and protected.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34674160/)

### What does Benzoyl Peroxide do for dry sensitive skin?

Benzoyl peroxide is a strong acne treatment that is generally too harsh for dry sensitive skin, as it frequently causes dryness, redness, and peeling. When treating acne on delicate skin, this type of product needs gentle, hydrating ingredients like ceramides and soothing cleansers to protect the skin barrier and prevent irritation.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### What does Allantoin do for dry sensitive skin?

Allantoin helps calm dry sensitive skin by soothing irritation and supporting skin barrier recovery. It is unlikely to cause adverse effects and may improve overall hydration and comfort.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40177799/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42521242/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for dry sensitive skin?

Apply this treatment in the evening, as treatments with active ingredients are placed in the pm routine for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. Because your skin is dry and sensitive, this product may be overly drying and irritating, and a product of this type needs plenty of moisturizing and soothing ingredients to keep skin soft and calm.

### Can I use this cream with retinol, and in what order?

Using this treatment with retinol may easily cause too much dryness and irritation for your dry and sensitive skin. To use them safely, this skin type needs extra soothing ingredients and rich moisturizers to calm the area and protect the skin barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use it?

Use this treatment in the evening once a week to start, as it may be overly drying and irritating for your dry and sensitive skin. If your skin tolerates it well without redness or flaking, you can carefully use it more often. A product for this skin needs soothing, hydrating ingredients and rich moisture to protect against dryness.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry sensitive skin?

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores, but benzoyl peroxide may dry out and irritate dry sensitive skin, potentially worsening flakiness. A product for this skin needs gentle acne-fighting ingredients combined with rich soothing hydrators to keep skin soft and calm.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £143.35 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £248.00 at Amazon

## Routine for dry sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Real Barrier Mild Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/real-barrier/mild-sun-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £19.01 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £13.58 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £59.74 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £38.50 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £13.58 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £22.24 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £59.74 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £38.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in United Kingdom has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Benzoyl Peroxide, 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
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/proactiv/repairing-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin