Product Review: SensiClear Deluxe Acne System

The SensiClear system is designed for those with sensitive skin who experience some problems with breakouts. While I've heard that this system seems to be "Proactiv Lite," I can tell you that the two systems are radically different, and probably wouldn't work for the same person. Proactiv contains benzoil peroxide and salicylic acid, while SensiClear contains salicylic acid only.

The set consists of four different products: Purifying Cleanser, Balancing Toner, Blemish Free Acne Treatment Lotion, and Blemish Free Acne Spot Treatment. Each product has it's pros and cons.

The Purifying Cleanser is a clear gel and it has a powerful smell - almost minty, but I can't really put my finger on what it is. Worth noting because if you are sensitive to fragrances, this might not work for you. The cleanser works well, although it doesn't contain salicylic acid - it's just a standard cleanser that does a great job of making your face feel wonderfully clean.

SensiClear's Balancing Toner is one of the most interesting toners I've ever tried. Again, there is a high fragrance level here, so be warned. However, this isn't a liquid like other toners - it's more of a gel. I found that I didn't always feel like one squirt of toner was enough for my entire face, and found myself using more than I probably needed because I wasn't used to the consistency. The active ingredient is 0.5% salicylic acid (most anti-acne products have 2%).

The standout product of this line, in my opinion, is the Blemish Free Acne Treatment Lotion. It's a very good moisturizer that settles in instantly and doesn't leave a ton of greasiness behind. It's one of the few moisturizers out there that has salicylic acid in it, at a concentration of 0.5%, not too shabby for a moisturizer. I'd avoid using it around the eyes, however.

Last in the set is the Blemish Free Acne Spot Treatment. This is a stronger formulation, at 2% salicylic acid, and is to be used only on blemishes as needed. I find this to be comparable to other blemish lotions. It's not as light as the gels out there, but it seems to get the job done.

Overall, I think this is a perfect set for those with sensitive skin who don't need large amounts of salicylic acid to fight breakouts. Unfortunately, I am not one of those people. If I don't beat my skin down with salicylic acid at a 2% concentration, I'm going to regret it. I used the system for 30 days, but at the end of that period, I went right back to what I was using before with more than my typical blemishes on my face.

If you are interested in trying this system, it does come with a risk free guarantee if you order it through the SensiClear.com site. My only issue with the site and the ordering process is that it seems to be a club of some sort where you sign up for scheduled deliveries. However, SkinStore.com has a great price on them right now, although I'm not sure of their return policy.