Why should I use all the products in the System?
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 by your Physician.

Why are the Obagi System products sold exclusively from physicians?
Obagi System skin care products are prescription strength formulations regulated by the U.S. FDA and can only be sold with a prescription through a physician.

What is the difference between the Obagi System products and the products purchased from department stores, drug stores, infomercials, etc?
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.

How often should I contact my Physician?
It is important to contact your Physician anytime you have a concern and follow up 6 weeks after starting treatment. 

Can the products be applied around the eyes, neck and chest?
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.

Can the products be used during pregnancy?
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.

Can the products be used if in the sun (i.e. at sporting events or at the beach)?
Keeping in mind that extended sun exposure damages the skin, it is suggested to avoid prolonged sun exposure without protection. Always wear a sunblock with zinc or titanium as the primary ingredients. 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.

What happens if I stop using the products?
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 renewal 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.

What does the Obagi Nu-Derm System do for aging skin?
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.

How quickly will I see results when using the Obagi Nu-Derm System?
The prescribed protocol and frequency is determined by your individual skin condition. By carefully following your Physician customized protocol, you can expect visible improvement in 4-6 weeks.

What can I expect while using the Obagi Nu-Derm System?
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.

Why is Vitamin C important?
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.

Why is the Obagi Nu-Derm System used in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures?
Those seeking skin resurfacing procedures (chemical peel or laser) usually have unhealthy skin. By improving important skin cell functions with the Obagi Nu-Derm System prior to the procedure, post-procedure care is enhanced and down time is reduced. Further, the post-procedure variables such as sensitivity, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, erythema and scarring are reduced. Early recovery of normal skin structure and function will ultimately boost satisfaction with the procedure.

How long should the Obagi Nu-Derm System be used before getting a chemical peel or laser treatment?
It varies based on the skin type, skin condition and depth of the planned procedure. Usually, a minimum pre-conditioning program lasts 6 weeks. Skin with more pigment or hyperpigmentation requires 12-18 weeks.