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Obagi Guide

is one of the most known skincare brands in the world. Founded by Dr Zein Obagi in the 1980s, the range is built around a small number of scientifically-backed actives. These are delivered multi-product systems. In the UK, the brand is through aesthetic clinics, pharmacies and authorised online on the .


We used to Obagi our old clinic. Whilst this remains one of the most brands, we’ve since moved to to give our better targeting at a lower cost. However, Obagi a and option for many people. This guide how each of the main Obagi systems works, what’s in them, who they suit and . Please note, we no longer use Obagi products. We’ve kept this guide as we the public deserve clear, evidence based information About Laser Hair Removal for Women all of their .

What is Obagi Skincare?

Obagi is a of ( routines) each around a specific skin concern. They also a number of products that you can use these systems or your own skincare . The brand’s rests on three things. These are the use of actives like and in some systems, the step-by-step protocol the follows and supervision. speaking, the Obagi range breaks down into three multi-product systems and a set of separate products. The three Obagi systems are:


Whilst you can buy from each system on their own, the from Obagi is to use the whole kit. Obagi also produce a range of that you can use on their own or layer alongside the main . The most popular examples of these are:


Beyond the main and standalone products, Obagi also have a number of newer and clinic only that round out the range. These the recently launched , the , the sub-range, the for hair density, a and a . For in-clinic use, Obagi offer the , a based on lactic, and acids. They also offer the facial which combines exfoliation, extraction and of Obagi serums.


Across all of these, the common thread is that Obagi delivers familiar dermatology actives standard formulas and protocols. What differs is the active ingredient, the structure of the protocol and whether the is for at home use as part of a system, on its own or as an treatment.

Obagi Nu-Derm System

The Obagi Nu-Derm System is their most famous range and what most people mean when they refer to "Obagi". It targets , , age spots, dullness, redness and the early signs of . Nu-Derm comes in two versions in the UK:


Both can be used to treat the same and the kits contain seven products. The Rx version is more potent and tends to be used for moderate to severe and . may be visible from 6 to 8 weeks. The Fx version is gentler and better for sensitive skin, but takes 16 to 24 weeks to deliver noticeable results.


The full seven twice daily over 12 to 24 weeks. The exact formula varies on whether your skin type is normal/dry or normal/oily, but the core routine typically includes:


are also typically also started on a (either or ) by their to layer alongside Blender or Blend Fx in the routine. The retinoid is not part of the Nu-Derm kit so you have to buy it separately.


In practice, Nu-Derm works of three things at once. The retinoid speeds up skin cell and . Hydroquinone or suppresses melanin through inhibition of the enzyme that makes it. The exfoliants speed up the . As such, Nu-Derm is best for:


That said, has some real . The is (seven products as well as a retinoid applied in a twice daily). The strength is fixed at 4% in the Rx version of your skin type, tolerance or response. The combined cost of all the full sized products plus the retinoid is typically £ for the initial course, with products needed afterwards. As the formulas are fixed, there is little flexibility to adjust the routine to accommodate your skin’s without buying or different products.

Obagi-C System

The System is the brand’s and range that is built around . The kit only contains 5 but like Nu-Derm, it comes in two versions in the UK:


The protocol follows the same general structure as Nu-Derm (cleanser, toner, active serum (mornings) or lotion (evenings) and sunscreen (mornings). The C day serum and night lotion which also contain either hydroquinone (Rx) or (Fx) do all the heavy . Almost always, retinol or is also added as a separate to boost the benefits. The System is best for:


Like Nu-Derm, the C System has the same fundamental . Firstly, the protocol is fixed and so the C and strengths do not adapt to the . A full course of either version and the retinoid typically costs between £ .

Obagi Clenziderm M.D. System

The M.D. System . It is a three system available by through authorised Obagi UK clinics. It is built around (a that and unclogs pores) and (an antibacterial that kills and reduces inflammation). The Clenziderm protocol three steps applied and evening:


For results, Obagi recommend using the Clenziderm system alongside a separate prescription retinoid (such as ) for at least 8-12 weeks. Some users may see significant in breakouts and oiliness within 2-4 weeks of regular use. In general, Clenziderm is best for:


However, Clenziderm has as a complete acne treatment. The system itself does not include a , so patients seeking the full need a separate prescription. There are no anti-inflammatory antibiotics like , which can make a meaningful difference for acne. Nor is there an anti-androgen agent like or for . The protocol is also rigid with the same three regardless of whether your acne is . It also doesn’t address , .


For mild to acne in oily skin, can work well, particularly when combined with a retinoid. It is less effective for more acne, hormonal acne, post acne dark marks or acne needing angles.

Alternatives to Obagi

Obagi is far from the only good skincare option for , and . If you’re considering Obagi but want to weigh up other approaches, the main in the UK fall into five broad camps:


Each of these has a place. The right path for you depends on what concerns you’re treating, how bespoke you want the approach to be, your budget and how much complexity you’re willing to take on day to day.



At City Skin Clinic, we are about custom skincare. We offer safe and effective custom skincare using ingredients like , , , , , , and others where appropriate through our online skin clinic. Our treat , , , and . To start your skincare plan, book a or use . The towards great skin .



This is for purposes and does not constitute advice. about prescription-strength skincare should be made in consultation with a licensed medical after a full skin . Always use SPF 50 daily when using prescription actives like tretinoin and and discuss any pre-existing conditions, or medications with your doctor before starting any new skincare regimen.



Is Obagi prescription only in the UK?




What's the difference between Nu-Derm Rx and Nu-Derm Fx?




Does Obagi Nu-Derm contain tretinoin?




Can I buy Obagi online in the UK?




How long does an Obagi course take?




Is Obagi worth it compared to other prescription skincare?




Can Obagi be used in skin of colour?




What's the difference between Obagi Nu-Derm and Obagi-C System?




Can Obagi cause skin irritation?







 


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