Changes in skin color can be the result of many different skin conditions. They may be a symptom of some other, seemingly unrelated condition. The fact that she’s so young, and you’re seeing changes, concerns me. I suggest that you seek prompt medical attention.

Sorry that I can’t help you more but I believe that you would be better served by getting a professional consultation locally.
Zein Obagi, MD

In fact, I started my working career 30 plus years ago treating different skin ethnicities, many of whom had been untreated, or mistreated. At the time, dermatologists seemingly knew only how to treat white bread. So I saw a lot of problem cases. It was at an American Academy of Dermatology meeting 20 years ago that I taught physicians how to treat skintypes of all different ethnicities. There has been some improvement since then, but there is still progress to be made.

So yes, both of my brands–Obagi and ZO Skin Health–are suitable for all skin types. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

The tolerance, concerns and problems differ some times, but the fundamentals of treating skin are the same.

Zein Obagi, MD

The problems that you’re experiencing could be the result of hormones, diet or stress that are causing excess oils. Acne, blackheads, whiteheads are often the result of excess oils in the skin that have clogged the pores.

Specialize. Given the problems that you have with an oily T-zone and dry/sensitive skin otherwise, maybe you should treat your problem areas differently than the rest of your face. The rest of my comments are therefore directed to your T-zone (or wherever else you have problems). As for the rest of your skin being sensitive, well, that’s a whole different subject!

Cleansing. Wash your skin with lukewarm water, no more than 2-3 times a day, with a cleanser formulated for oily skin. Washing more often, or with very hot water or harsh soaps, will only increase the activity of the oil glands. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and then apply a toner/ astringent on the oily area.

Unclog the pores. It’s the dirt and bacteria that are in the open pores that are causing acne. It’s important to keep your pores open and functioning properly. The best way to treat acne is to use both a physical and chemical exfoliant. Most of the scrubs that are labelled as “gentle” are too gentle to be effective. Try the ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Polish. It uses round magnesium crystals to buff the skin, clear off dead, dry skin cells, and remove surface debris from the pores. You can use it once a day (in the shower—it’s easier to rinse off that way). Or as little as 2-3 times a week, once you get your skin under control.

The oil-producing glands tend to be more prominent around the nose, and so oily skin is more problematic there. ZO Skin Health TE pads are soaked in salicylic acid and glycolic acid to exfoliate the skin cells and reduce oiliness. It’s the combination of these two—a mechanical exfoliant and a chemical one—that work together to control oiliness and breakouts. Generally, having one without the other just isn’t enough.

Unfortunately, there’s no cure for oily skin, but we can help control it.

Diet. There are varying opinions as to whether or not food causes acne, but there’s general agreement that fatty, oily foods only exacerbate oily skin. Salty, iodized foods are also part of the problem. Drink plenty of water.

Cosmetics. Avoid oil-based cosmetics (use only water-based)

If these problems persist, it’s important to get medical treatment, as acne can cause scars. See a dermatologist for a recommendation and prescription.

Hope that helps.

Donna Queen
President
ZO Skin Health

I’ve written to you before regarding concerns of redness while using Zo products. I would just like to update you. I’ve been using Zo for over 2 months now, and my skin never looked this good! No more redness, and my skin seems to have a more even tone. No more milias, too! I use the Radical Night Repair with the Overnight Cream every other day. I alternate this with the Growth Factor Serum and Day Cream during the day. I also use the Exfoliating cleanser 2 to 3 times a week, and the Exfoliating Polish once a week.

The only thing that didn’t work for me, unfortunately, was the Sunblock. It seemed to clog my pores. I use mineral make-up, so that’s what I use as sunblock. It has worked well for me, so far.

I’m so glad to have discovered this line! I’m 38 yrs. old, and people have been complimenting me on my “flawless” skin.

Thank you, Dr. Obagi! More power to you!

Best regards,
Ohanna