Overview
Cold Fusion is produced and marketed by Tennessee-based company Evolution-X. Cold Fusion consists of a three-step system that is intended to treat and prevent acne. The first step involves applying the Salicylic Gel, following by application of the Glycolic Gel. Finally, the consumer uses the Benzoyl Peroxide Gel. Given the fact that the company includes a highly illustrative model for conceiving of acne and its treatment, we were encouraged by Cold Fusion when we began our research of this system.

Featured Ingredients
The Cold Fusion Salicylic Gel contains one of the most effective acne treating ingredients available - Salicylic Acid. This compound, synthesized from the White Willow tree, contains several cleansing components that help reduce the size and number of pimples. Salicylic Acid also helps prevent future breakouts by removing the surface layer of dead skin cells and replacing them with young, healthy ones. Cold Fusion definitely starts on the right foot by including this product in its line. Unfortunately, we do not know what concentration of Salicylic Acid is contained in this product. Optimum concentration should be 2.0%. Plus, unfortunately, the Gel does not also employ QuSomes, a unique delivery system that will ensure that Salicylic Acid goes below the surface layer of skin.

The Cold Fusion Glycolic Gel features Glycolic Acid, which is a member of the alpha hydroxyl acid group of compounds. Although alpha hydroxy’s do perform an exfoliating function and thus help remove some of the clogging compounds associated with acne, many people also experience adverse reactions with their use. Glycolic Acid is slowly being phased out in the industry, and some researchers simply believe that there are better choices.

The third step in the Cold Fusion system involves use of the Benzoyl Peroxide Gel. While Benzoyl Peroxide was elevated to prominence during the 1980s and 1990s because of its popular inclusion in many acne products, today it has lost some of its status. Because as many as 75% of Benzoyl Peroxide users will experience dryness, irritation, redness and/or flaking, some dermatologists feel that other compounds will work better, with fewer side effects.

Web Site at a Glance
The Cold Fusion web site definitely has a fresh and hip approach. There is plenty of information on the products, and their graphic illustration of acne and its treatment is one of the most creative that we have seen on the Internet. However, we also have many questions that the web site does not answer. It is not clear what the concentration of Salicylic Acid in the Salicylic Gel is. In addition, the web site claims that the system can control oil, but none of the products contain Silicol Dioxide, so we have to wonder what ingredients perform this function.

Pros
- One formula contains Salicylic Acid, a known acne fighter

- Clear and helpful illustration of the process of treating acne

Cons
- Salicylic Acid concentration is not disclosed (should be 2.0% for maximum effect)

- Does not contain QuSomes for maximum penetration of ingredients

- Claims to control oil, but ingredients for this purpose are not revealed

Summary
Although Cold Fusion does have a formula with Salicylic Acid in it, we cannot recommend using the entire system. There are too many question marks around Benzoyl Peroxide, and Glycolic Acid does not seem to be the best choice for exfoliating. Plus, it is not clear how any of the products control oil. For these reasons, a different system would probably be a better choice.