Here's our complete breakdown comparing the ingredients, attributes, and more of Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel versus Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel .
Published on October 21, 2021
Overview
What they are
These products are both reef safe facial treatments. They have a total of 25 ingredients in common
Cool Features
They both contain peptides and Vitamin E
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for anti aging, brightening skin, sensitive skin and dark spots
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances, parabens or sulfates
What's Inside
They both contain oils and silicones
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that need an update? Let us know.
Facial Treatment
Facial treatments are specially designed to treat a skin concern. Acne treatments and anti-aging products are common examples of facial treatments.
Facial Treatment
Facial treatments are specially designed to treat a skin concern. Acne treatments and anti-aging products are common examples of facial treatments.
Ingredient Info
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel 26 ingredients
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel 26 ingredients
Alcohol Free
This product is free of harsh alcohols 🎉
Contains Silicon
Ingredients in this product that are types of silicon:
Fragrance Free
This product is free of fragrances 🎉
Sulfate Free
This product is free of sulfates 🎉
Paraben Free
This product is free of parabens 🎉
Contains Oils
Ingredients in this product that are types of oil:
Not Malassezia Safe
Ingredients in this product that are not malassezia safe:
Reef Safe
This product is free of ingredients that damage reefs 🎉
EU Allergen Free
This product is free of EU allergens 🎉
Non Vegan
This product is not vegan 😥
Not Cruelty Free
This product is not cruelty-free 😥
Alcohol Free
This product is free of harsh alcohols 🎉
Contains Silicon
Ingredients in this product that are types of silicon:
Fragrance Free
This product is free of fragrances 🎉
Sulfate Free
This product is free of sulfates 🎉
Paraben Free
This product is free of parabens 🎉
Contains Oils
Ingredients in this product that are types of oil:
Not Malassezia Safe
Ingredients in this product that are not malassezia safe:
Reef Safe
This product is free of ingredients that damage reefs 🎉
EU Allergen Free
This product is free of EU allergens 🎉
Non Vegan
This product is not vegan 😥
Not Cruelty Free
This product is not cruelty-free 😥
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel 26 ingredients
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel 26 ingredients
Notable Ingredients
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
Benefits
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 2 ingredients that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 2 ingredients that may have this attribute:
Notable Ingredients
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
Benefits
This product contains 2 ingredients that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 2 ingredients that may have this attribute:
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Join SkinSortIngredients Compared
Ingredients that are highlighted in purple are present in both products.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel 26 ingredients
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel 26 ingredients
Water • Dimethicone • Dimethicone Crosspolymer • Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride • Bis-Peg-12 Dimethicone • Glyceryl Oleate Citrate • Ethoxydiglycol • Butylene Glycol • Bakuchiol • Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate • Phenoxyethanol • Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer • Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil • Hippophae Rhamnoides Seed Oil • Citric Acid • Sodium Hydroxide • Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil • Tocopheryl Acetate • Ethylhexylglycerin • Disodium EDTA • Squalane • Asiaticoside • Madecassic Acid • Asiatic Acid • Dextran • Tripeptide-1
Water • Dimethicone • Dimethicone Crosspolymer • Caprylic Acid • Bis-Peg-12 Dimethicone • Glyceryl Oleate Citrate • Ethoxydiglycol • Bakuchiol • Dextran • Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil • Hippophae Rhamnoides Seed Oil • Asiatic Acid • Asiaticoside • Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil • Butylene Glycol • Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate • Phenoxyethanol • Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer • Citric Acid • Sodium Hydroxide • Tocopheryl Acetate • Ethylhexylglycerin • Disodium EDTA • Squalane • Madecassic Acid • Tripeptide-1
Ingredients Side-by-side
Ingredients that are highlighted in purple are present in both products.
Learn more about what what Com. / Irr. ratings are
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. Talk about multi-purpose! If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterProactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 1.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 1.
Dimethicone is a silicone used for making products smooth and silky. It also has the added benefit of sealing in hydration. The amount of dimethicone found in beauty products is considered safe and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores.
Dimethicone has been found increase absorption in skin, boosting the benefits of other ingredients. While there is concern for the safety of dimethicone, the levels used in skincare are safe for use.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 2.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 2.
Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a silicone created by modifying dimethicone with hydrocarbon side chains. Due to its large size, it does not penetrate skin. It is considered non-occlusive.
Dimethicone Crosspolymer is used to stabilize and thicken products. It also helps give products a silky feel.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 3.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 3.
Bis-Peg-12 Dimethicone is a type of silicone.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 5.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 5.
Glyceryl Oleate Citrate isn't fungal acne safe.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 6.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 6.
Ethoxydiglycol is a synthetic solvent.
Solvents are used to keep ingredients together in a product. They can help dissolve ingredients to stable bases or help evenly distribute ingredients throughout the product.
Ethoxydiglycol also helps deliver other key ingredients into the skin.
Learn more about EthoxydiglycolProactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 7.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 7.
Butylene Glycol (or BG) is used within cosmetic products for a few different reasons:
- It is a solvent, meaning that it helps to dissolve other ingredients. This also enhances the absorption of the product into one's skin.
- It is a humectant, which means that it helps attract moisture into the skin.
- It helps improve product application.
Overall, Butylene Glycol is a safe and well-rounded ingredient. It is unlikely to irritate skin, and works well with pretty much all other ingredients.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 8.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 15.
Bakuchiol is a plant-derived antioxidant (it's vegan!). It is often called the replacement for retinol although it is not part of the same family.
It has similar effects as retinol: skin smoothing, reducing discoloration, and preventing wrinkles. It does not cause as much irritation as traditional retinoids.
Bakuchiol works by breaking down free radicals and stimulating collagen production in skin.
Combining bakuchiol with retinol will not have adverse side effects. Studies show using them will just boost the benefits. Bakuchiol is also found to help stabilize retinol.
While bakuchiol does not make the skin more sun sensitive, we recommend wearing SPF on a daily basis.
Read more about traditional retinol
Learn more about BakuchiolProactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 9.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 8.
We don't have a description for Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 10.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 16.
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent germ and microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.
It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 11.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 17.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a synthetic polymer. It is used to thicken and improve the texture of products.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is also an emulsifier. Due to its properties, it can prevent water and oil ingredients from separating.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 12.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 18.
Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil comes from the seabuckthorn berry. The seabuckthorn fruit contains carotenoids, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid and vitamin E.
The nutritious content of seabuckthorn fruit oil helps hydrate and nourish the skin. A study from 2018 found seabuckthorn may help with alleviating UV damage due to its anti-inflammatory property.
Carotenoids and Vitamin E help nourish your skin's natural barrier. This barrier protects your skin and is responsible for firm skin.
Learn more about Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit OilProactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 13.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 10.
Hippophae Rhamnoides Seed Oil comes from the seeds of the seabuckthorn plant.
Seabuckthorn is rich in phytosterols, carotenoids, Vitamins A, C, and E. This gives it strong antioxidant properties that can help soothe and protect your skin from oxidative damage.
The seeds of seabuckthorn are rich in fatty acids. These include linoleic acid (~30-34%), oleic acid (17%), and palmiteic acid (35%).
Palmitoleic acid has been shown to help soothe inflammation and promote wound healing. It is also naturally found in the fat of our skin.
Learn more about Hippophae Rhamnoides Seed OilProactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 14.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 11.
Citric Acid is an AHA derived from citrus fruits (think oranges, lemons, and limes!).
If you spot Citric Acid near the end of an ingredient list, it's likely there as a pH adjuster rather than an active ingredient.
As an AHA, Citric Acid removes the top layer of skin cells from the newer layer of skin underneath. This helps skin to remove dark spots and look more even.
Read more about some other popular AHA's here:
Learn more about Citric AcidProactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 15.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 19.
Sodium Hydroxide is also known as lye or caustic soda. It is used to adjust the pH of products; many ingredients require a specific pH to be effective.
In small amounts, sodium hydroxide is considered safe to use. However, large amounts may cause chemical burns due to its high alkaline.
Your skin has a natural pH and acid mantle. This acid mantle helps prevent harmful bacteria from breaking through. The acid mantle also helps keep your skin hydrated.
"Alkaline" refers to a high pH level. A low pH level would be considered acidic.
Learn more about Sodium HydroxideProactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 16.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 20.
Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil is an emollient. It comes from the sweet-brier plant native to Europe and western Asia.
Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil is rich in Vitamin E, Vitamin C, linoleic acid, and other fatty acids.
Emollients help hydrate the skin by trapping moisture in.
Another component of Rosa Rubiginosa is tretinoin, or trans-retinoic acid. Tretinoin is an anti-aging ingredient. However, the efficacy of this tretinoin depends on how the oil is extracted.
Learn more about Rosa Rubiginosa Seed OilProactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 17.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 14.
Tocopheryl Acetate is AKA Vitamin E. It is an antioxidant and protects your skin from free radicals. Free radicals damage the skin by breaking down collagen.
One study found using Tocopheryl Acetate with Vitamin C decreased the number of sunburned cells.
Tocopheryl Acetate is commonly found in both skincare and dietary supplements.
Learn more about Tocopheryl AcetateProactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 18.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 21.
Ethylhexylglycerin (we can't pronounce this either) is commonly used as a preservative and skin softener. It is derived from glyceryl.
You might see Ethylhexylglycerin often paired with other preservatives such as phenoxyethanol. Ethylhexylglycerin has been found to increase the effectiveness of these other preservatives.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 19.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 22.
Disodium EDTA plays a role in making products more stable by aiding other preservatives.
It is a chelating agent, meaning it neutralizes metal ions that may be found in a product.
Disodium EDTA is a salt of edetic acid and is found to be safe in cosmetic ingredients.
Learn more about Disodium EDTAProactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 20.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 23.
Squalane is an emollient that helps the skin hold onto moisture. It's an oily liquid that occurs naturally in certain types of fish and plant oils.
Because squalane boosts hydration in the skin, it also comes with plenty of benefits: it is an antioxidant and can help fight free radicals and skin damage. Squalane is also found to have a detoxifying effect when applied.
Squalane comes from squalene, which occurs naturally within the sebum of our skin. It is one of the oils our skin produces to keep itself hydrated. Squalane is the hydrogenated version of squalene and has a longer shelf life.
Research shows that squalane is non-irritating (even at 100% concentration).
In general, it's a fantastic ingredient. It does a great job at hydrating the skin, and it's suitable for those with sensitive skin.
The source of squalane may impact malassezia / fungal acne. This is because olive oil derived squalane can contain impurities such as fatty acids and plant waxes. Sugarcane derived squalane is recommended for anyone with malassezia concerns.
Is squalane vegan? This depends on the source. Squalane can be derived from both plants and animals. Most squalane used in skincare comes from plants.
Please note: the source of squalane is only known if disclosed by the brand. We recommend reaching out to the brand if you have any questions about their squalane.
Read more about squalene with an "e".
Learn more about SqualaneProactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 21.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 24.
Asiaticoside comes from the super popular skin-soothing ingredient, Centella asiatica. It is one of four active compounds found in the extract of Centella Asiatica.
Asiaticoside is an antioxidant and helps with wound healing. It has been shown to increase antioxidant activity during the wound healing process.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 22.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 13.
Madecassic Acid is a major component of Centella Asiatica Extract. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
It is a triterpenoid, meaning it naturally acts as an antioxidant. Antioxidants protect your skin against damage from environmental factors such as pollution and UV.
Studies show Madecassic Acid helps soothe the skin due to its ability to block inflammation pathways.
Learn more about Madecassic AcidProactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 23.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 25.
Asiatic Acid is a major component of Centella Asiatica Extract. It has wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
Studies show Asiatic Acid is able to block the pathway for skin inflammation receptors, helping to soothe skin.
As an antioxidant, asiatic acid helps protect our skin against damaging environmental factors.
Learn more about Asiatic AcidProactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 24.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 12.
We don't have a description for Dextran.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 25.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 9.
Tripeptide-1 is a peptide.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 26.
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel contains this as ingredient number 26.
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these two products.
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel 26 ingredients
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel 26 ingredients
Usage
Here's some more info on how this product is used by our community.
When to use
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel 26 ingredients
Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel 26 ingredients
Reviews
Here's what our community thinks
Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel 26 ingredients
Alternatives
Our Dupe Finder has found 8 potential alternatives that have similar ingredients to Proactiv Post Acne Scar Gel.
See 8 alternativesOur Dupe Finder has found 1 potential alternatives that have similar ingredients to Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel.
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