Obagi Guide

Obagi is a skincare brand offering a range of skincare products designed to improve the skin’s health and appearance. The brand has a reputation for its clinically proven and dermatologist approved skincare solutions. They have designed their products to address various skin concerns, including hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, acne, uneven skin tone and sun damage.

Obagi has a long history in skincare, helping people enhance their skin for 35 years. As a brand, it is constantly looking for new and innovative ways to treat your skin concerns — meaning they’re always one step ahead of the trends. In particular, Obagi is known for its Obagi Nu-Derm System, a complete skincare system designed to transform the skin at the cell level. The system includes a series of products working together to improve skin tone, texture and overall skin health. It is often used to address concerns about hyperpigmentation and sun damage. However, it usually requires close supervision and advice from a doctor, as some of the products contain prescription strength ingredients.

Benefits of using Obagi products

This is a reputable skincare brand known for its science backed products, results driven skincare and effective ingredients. They focus on treating specific skin concerns to help achieve visible improvements in the skin’s health and appearance. The main Obagi product lines aim to target hyperpigmentation, acne or fine lines and wrinkles.

Their products contain a range of effective ingredients carefully chosen and formulated to target specific skin concerns. these may include prescription ingredients in the medical line. For example, some products may contain hydroquinone, a potent skin lightening agent used to address hyperpigmentation. Another ingredient could be Tretinoin, a retinoid that helps to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture. 

Non prescription Obagi products may contain active ingredients like exfoliating acids, arbutin or vitamin C that are scientifically formulated to penetrate the skin and target specific skin issues. These ingredients can nourish and exfoliate the skin, stimulate collagen production and provide anti skin ageing benefits.

Obagi products are usually sold as complete skin solutions often designed as part of a multi step skincare regimen. For example, its kits such as the Obagi Nu-Derm System, provide a complete skincare routine that includes cleansers, toners, sunscreen and active products. Together these treat, moisturise and protect the skin. 

How to choose the right Obagi products for your skin type

Choosing the right Obagi products for your skin type requires considering your specific skin concerns, skin type and desired results. For the prescription systems and products like Nu Derm Rx and Tretinoin, your doctor or medical provider will advise you on the best products and protocols for your needs.

Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

• Assess your skin concerns – Obagi offers a range of products that target various skin concerns. Identify the primary skin concern you want to address and look for Obagi products specifically designed for it.
• Consider your skin type – Obagi products are formulated for skin types including normal, dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Consider your skin type and look for products that are suitable for it.
• Consult with a skincare professional – It’s always best to consult a skincare professional, such as an aesthetic doctor, to determine the most suitable Obagi products for your skin type and concerns. They can provide personalised advice based on your unique needs and create a custom skincare routine.
• Patch test – Before adding a new Obagi product into your skincare routine, perform a patch test to check for any potential adverse reactions or sensitivities. Apply a small amount of the product on a discreet area of your skin such as the collar bone bone or on your inner arm, and monitor for any adverse reactions for 24-48 hours. If no irritation or sensitivity occurs, you can proceed with using the product as directed.
• Follow product instructions – Each Obagi product comes with instructions, including frequency of application, amount and specific usage instructions. Prescription products will come with a written protocol that your doctor has created for you. It’s vital to carefully read and follow these instructions to ensure you’re using the products correctly and boost their effects.

How to start a skincare routine with Obagi

Creating a skincare routine with Obagi is quite easy. You can either use a kit for a complete routine or pick individual products based on your skin’s needs and integrate them into your current routine. 

Cleansing with Obagi products

Cleansing is a vital step in any skincare routine, and Obagi offers various products to properly cleanse the skin and prepare it for further skincare steps. Obagi has designed its cleansers to be gentle yet effective in getting rid of dirt, makeup and impurities from the skin. These cleansers are soap free and pH-balanced. This helps to maintain the skin’s natural pH level and prevents over drying or irritation. The gentle cleansing action ensures that the skin is completely cleaned without causing damage to its natural moisture barrier.

One of Obagi’s strengths is its ability to cater to different skin types. Obagi customise their cleansers for different skin types, including normal, dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. So, you can choose a product specifically formulated for your skin type, to ensure it addresses your skin’s unique needs. Obagi also formulated its cleansers with beneficial ingredients that can nourish and improve the skin. For example, some cleansers contain vitamins, antioxidants and botanical extracts that help to nourish and protect the skin.

Toning with Obagi products

One of Obagi toners’ key benefits is helping restore the skin’s natural pH balance. This is key to maintain healthy skin. Various factors, such as cleansing products and pollutants from the environment can disrupt the  skin’s pH level. Obagi toners are formulated to bring the skin’s pH level back to its optimal range, supporting its natural functions and promoting a healthy skin barrier.

Obagi toners also help tighten the appearance of pores. Some Obagi toners contain ingredients such as witch hazel, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that can unclog pores, reduce excess sebum production and reduce the appearance of pores. This results in a smoother complexion.

In addition, Obagi toners are made to enhance the skin’s texture and tone. Some toners contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) that gently exfoliate the skin. This can improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and skin discolouration. 

Another benefit of using Obagi toners is that they prepare the skin before applying other skincare products. By balancing the skin’s pH level, tightening pores and exfoliating the skin, toners create a clean canvas ready to absorb other skincare products. This ensures that these products work properly.

Treating with Obagi products

Treating skin concerns with Obagi products involves using specialised skincare products formulated to target specific skin concerns. Obagi has designed its treatment products with carefully selected ingredients to address specific skin issues. Hyperpigmentation, acne, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone and texture and sun damage are some of the common skin concerns Obagi products can treat.

For example, Obagi’s Nu-Derm System and Obagi-C System are specifically designed to address hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone caused by sun damage or other factors. It contains ingredients such as hydroquinone, Tretinoin and vitamin C, working together to lighten dark spots, even out skin tone and improve skin texture.

Obagi also offers products for treating acne prone skin, such as the CLENZIderm M.D. system, which contains benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid to help unclog pores, reduce inflammation and control excess oil production. These ingredients are known for treating acne and help to prevent breakouts. This makes them popular with those with acne prone skin.

When using Obagi treatment products, you must follow the usage instructions and consult with your skincare professional. Some of these products contain potent ingredients that may cause skin sensitivity, and it’s vital to use them as directed to avoid any adverse effects.

Moisturising with Obagi products

Moisturising with Obagi products is an important step in a skincare routine to help maintain healthy and hydrated skin. Obagi offers various moisturisers that nourish and hydrate the skin. This provides much needed moisture to keep it soft. Obagi has formulated its moisturisers with effective ingredients that help lock in moisture, soothe dryness and protect the skin from environmental stress. It designed these products to provide long lasting skin hydration, helping to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and promote a younger and more radiant complexion.

One of Obagi moisturisers’ key benefits is they are made with effective ingredients known for their skin hydrating properties. For example, Obagi’s Hydrate Facial Moisturiser contains ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, shea butter and avocado oil, which work together to restore the skin’s moisture barrier and lock in hydration. Obagi also offers moisturisers with added benefits, such as sun protection to protect the skin from the damaging effects of the sun’s rays. Sunshine can cause early skin ageing and hyperpigmentation.

Tips for building a good skincare routine

Building a skincare routine with Obagi products can help you to maintain healthy, radiant skin. Ultimately, being consistent is key for any skincare routine. Use your skincare products regularly and as directed to see the best results. It may take time to see results, so be patient and stick to your routine.

Here are some top tips to help you build a skincare routine:

• Know your skin type so you can select the right products for your routine.
• Cleansing is the first step in any skincare routine. Avoid using harsh cleansers that can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier and cause irritation.
• Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. This promotes a more smooth and radiant complexion. Choose a gentle exfoliator appropriate for your skin type and use it 2-3 times a week to avoid over-exfoliating.
• If you have specific skin concerns, such as acne, hyperpigmentation or fine lines, consider adding targeted treatments into your skincare routine. Look for products containing active ingredients known to address these concerns.
• Hydrating and moisturising the skin is crucial to maintain its health and prevent dryness. Choose a moisturiser that is suitable for your skin type and apply it regularly to lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated.
• Sun protection is a crucial step in any skincare routine to prevent sun damage, premature ageing and skin cancer. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and apply a generous amount to all exposed skin, including the face, neck and hands. Use your SPF every day, even on cloudy days.
• Pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products and adjust your skincare routine accordingly. If a product causes irritation or redness, discontinue use and look for gentler alternatives. Remember, everyone’s skin is different, so what works for others may not necessarily work for you.

The importance of maintaining good skin health

Skin is the body’s largest organ and serves as a protective barrier against external factors in the environment. A proper skincare routine helps to cleanse and protect the skin. This helps to maintain its health and integrity. It can also help prevent skin issues, such as acne, dryness, sensitivity and early skin ageing. Obagi considers this important when making its products. They take a science backed approach to skincare. Their skincare philosophy focuses on getting optimal skin health through targeted treatments that work deep into the skin to deliver visible and long lasting results.

Our lifestyle choices can also significantly impact our skin health. Factors such as diet, hydration, sleep, stress and exposure to environmental pollutants can affect the skin’s condition. A healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular hydration, enough sleep, stress management and protection from UV radiation can help with better skin health.

Personalised Skincare Alternatives

Obagi is a global skincare brand with a reputation for excellence. We have had lots of success with its products in the past but as our clinic matured we’ve sought for an even more bespoke approach. That’s why we developed our fully personalised skincare treatments with prescription-strength ingredients designed around your individual concerns and goals. Book virtual consultation with one of our doctors today, and take a step closer to better skin.