Q: Why should I use all the products in the
System?
A: Each Obagi System is specifically designed to work together as a System.
When used as a System, the formulas work together to effectively balance the
pH level and penetrate ingredients to the layers of the skin--revealing
superior results. As always, please follow the individual protocol designed.
Q: What is the difference between the Obagi
System products and the products purchased from department stores, drug
stores, infomercials, etc?
A: Obagi System skin care products are prescription strength, or
pharmaceutical quality products that work at the cellular level to improve
the skin cell function. Products purchased from a retail store are
Cosmeceutical products. When applied, they do not correct skin cells,
instead they “mask” the damaged skin only on the surface of the skin for a
temporary period.
Q: Can the products be applied around the
eyes, neck and chest?
A: With the exception of the Obagi Nu-Derm System Eye Cream and Cffectives
5%, you should avoid using products around the eye area, as that skin area
is thin and delicate. The products can be used on the neck and chest,
however, the skin on the neck and chest is different than that of the face.
Thus, you should consult with your Physician or Skin Care Specialist on
dosage and frequency.
Q: Can the products be used during
pregnancy?
A: The non-prescription products are safe to use during pregnancy and
nursing. The prescription products which contain Hydroquinone and Tretinoin
are rated Category “C” for women who are pregnant or nursing, and should not
be used.
Q: Can the products be used if in the sun
(i.e. at sporting events or at the beach)?
A: Keeping in mind that extended sun exposure damages the skin, it is
suggested to avoid prolonged sun exposure without protection. Always wear a
sunscreen like the Obagi Nu-Derm Healthy Skin Protection SPF 35, Obagi-C Rx
SunGuard SPF 30, or Obagi Nu-Derm Physical UV Block SPF 32. While on the
system, you can participate in normal outdoor activity, however, your skin
may be sensitive to the sun and heat. It is very important to apply sun
protection every few hours while exposed to the sun.
Q: What happens if I stop using the
products?
A: The skin is your largest living organ and is constantly in the process of
renewal. Skin cells mature and migrate to the surface approximately every 28
to 40 days. The dead cells remain on the surface for another 12 days before
sloughing off. When you stop using the products, you have interrupted the
healthy cell renewel process. Eventually, the improved healthy cells will
revert to where you started with abnormal skin cell function. You will begin
to see diminishing results within weeks.
Q: What does the Obagi Nu-Derm System do for
aging skin?
A: As skin ages, just like the body, it loses the ability to properly renew
itself. The Obagi Nu-Derm System is a prescription strength skin care system
that is physician monitored to accelerate skin cell turnover so that it
looks and acts younger and healthier.
Q: How quickly will I see results when using
the Obagi Nu-Derm System?
A: The prescribed protocol and frequency is determined by your individual
skin condition. By carefully following your Physician or Skin Care
Specialists customized protocol, you can expect visible improvements in 4-6
weeks.
Q: What can I expect while using the Obagi
Nu-Derm System?
A: You may experience several phases of Transformation. In the first phase,
“Out With The Old”, the System accelerates dead cell exfoliation, so expect
flaking and peeling, revealing fresher, smoother skin. In the second phase,
“In With The New”, your skin will begin to build tolerance to peeling and
flaking. During that time the System is working at the cellular level to
continually transform skin cells. In the third phase, “Healthy Glow”,
histologically, collagen and elastin are increasing production and skin will
feel supple and resilient. Uneven color and pigmentation begin to even out.
In the fourth phase, “The New You”, you keep your skin looking and acting
younger and healthier.
Q: Why is Vitamin C important?
A: Vitamin C belongs to an important group of antioxidants which fight the
free radicals that age the skin. Studies have shown topical Vitamin C, in
the most effective form (L-ascorbic acid), can help improve sun protection,
repair sun damaged skin, reduce fine lines, stimulate collagen building and
potentially reduce discoloration of the skin.
Q: How is the Obagi-C Rx System different
from other Vitamin C products?
A: The Obagi-C Rx System is the first and only prescription-strength Vitamin
C System of products in the U.S. Its patented formulation, using proven
ingredients, provides a simple to use system for brighter, more radiant,
Photolumines Skin. While many Vitamin C products simply moisturize the
skin’s surface, the Obagi-C Rx System penetrates to all layers of the skin,
effectively delivering more Vitamin C than other brands.
.
Q: Can Tretinoin be prescribed along with
the Obagi-C Rx System?
A: The Obagi-C Rx System is specifically designed to work together as a
System to deliver a radiant, Photolumines glow to your skin. Adding
Tretinoin or other products is not recommended, but it is important to
discuss your individual skin care needs with your Physician and Skin Care
Specialist.
Q: Why are there two C-Exfoliating Day
Lotions?
A: There are two C-Exfoliating Day Lotion options. One has a sunscreen with
SPF 12 and the other does not have a sunscreen. Some patients already use
sunscreen, dislike the sunscreen smell or are prone to irritation or
breakouts caused by sunscreens. Other patients need the extra sunscreen or
want the added convenience of a sunscreen built into their lotion.
