I’ve been just about everywhere that’s fashionable—London, Paris, Rome, but New York Fashion Week??? With the likes of Diane von Furstenberg, Michael Kors, Carolina Herrera, Ralph Lauren and Donna Karan?
Well, I’m known and respected for many things. But my fashion sense is not high on that list. After all, I spend six days a week in a white lab coat.
But I’ll be represented there, nonetheless. The Bryant Park Hotel asked me to give samples of my products to some of the designers, celebrities, models, and fashion critics who will attend this year’s event in Bryant Park. My choice: the ZO Skin Heath Oclipse™ SPF 30 Sunscreen and Offects™ Exfoliating Polish.
For a sample of the Oclipse sunscreen, contact smunz@zoskinhealth.com. Even if you can’t afford the haute couture, you can wear the same sunscreen.
I use products from Studio Gear, Exuviance, Epicuren, Chanel, Repechage, Clarins, Keihls, Cosmedicine, Mario Badescu, but I’m just not happy with any of them. I have occasional breakouts and acne pockmarks (”What can I do about the pockmarks???!!!”) and I also have small bumps on my head. None of the problems I have listed are very visible, but the are visible enough to drive me crazy.
Please help!
Emelia B
Hi, Emelia:
First, a question for you: Why are you using so many different brands of skincare? It’s generally good to stick with just one or two brands. You’re probably OD’ing on some ingredients, while totally missing out on others. That being said, I hate to introduce one more brand to you!!
The problems that you’re experiencing could be the result of hormones, diet or stress. Sounds like excess oils have clogged your pores. Let’s try to get your pores functioning normally..
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. Rinse thoroughly and finish off with a toner/ astringent on the oily areas of your skin.
Unclog the pores. 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 also contains an anti-bacterial agent. Use one pad once or twice a day and allow to air-dry. (Some people are able to cut them in half, and use only half of a pad). 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.
If these problems persist, it’s important to get medical treatment, because you will get more pockmarks. Those can’t really be successfully treated with any topical cream—you need lasers or a chemical peel.
Let me know how you do! The products that I’ve suggested are only enough to control acne… if you have other problems, let me know!
Donna Queen
President, ZO Skin Health
I’m an Hispanic male, and use skin caviar by La Prairie. How can I stop my oily skin from looking shiny and dirty?
Victor
Hi Victor,
A quick short answer… quit using your Skin Caviar cream if your concerns are related to oily skin. I have copied and pasted the product description directly from the corporate website:
Skin Caviar Luxe Cream
Ultimate Firming Cream
Drenches skin with moisture and nourishment
Someone with oily skin, enlarged oil glands, and with the other concerns you described should absolutely stay away from moisturizers. Seriously, I don’t even understand how caviar is capable of providing any benefit to the skin. Sounds like a good gimmick to give a slight twist on just another moisturizer. What is important is that you stay away from all moisturizers. You need a good cleanser tailored to normal to oily skin types that you will cleanse your skin with twice a day. Remember to clean your skin for AT LEAST one minute. The average person only spends 20-seconds cleansing their skin and that is not sufficient. Also, you need something to exfoliate all of the dirt and dead skin cells that easily accumulates on skin surface. If you want any specific recommendations, feel free to reply.
Best,
Sandra Obagi, MBA
Medical Aesthetics
Dr. Obagi:
My acne is usually mild, but I occasionally get a cyst. The only “answer” seems to be going to a dermatologist for a cortisone shot; isn’t there anything else I can do? Would topical cortisone cream be useful, or should I just stick to drowning it with benzoyl peroxide??
Laura
Hello Laura,
A topical steroid cream is NOT the same as a steroid injection commonly administered by Dermatologists (including myself) for cystic acne. Topical steroid creams are not beneficial to skin for long-term use as they can cause atrophy and skin sensitivity. The benefits are limited to reactive skin conditions such as eczema and for only short periods of time. They are in no way indicated to treat or prevent acne.
You need to address the underlying source of your acne condition and take steps to properly manage your acne breakouts. Good cleansing habits (2xs a day, for at least one minute), exfoliating dead skin cells about 3xs a week (Exfoliating Polish is a great one), and using something to reduce the bacteria on your skin such as, the Tepads (2xs a day after cleansing) is an excellent start. You can use a daily stimulator to remove the free-radical in your skin and keep healthy skin cells stimulated, such as the Daily Power Defense. This is one of my favorite protocols for patients with mild acne,(you are being well managed by a dermatologist). My staff, frequently recommend that DNA Kit, Exfoliating Polish, and Tepads as an excellent system. This includes everything discussed above, in addition to a great Sunblock and an evening Growth Factor Serum you can utilize (Daily Power Defense is included for the day). Please feel free to call our San Diego office for more information.
Best,
Zein Obagi, MD
I’m 39 years old, use Oil of Olay and I have lines around the mouth and eyes which I don’t want to go any further. I am also developing undereye bags. What do you recommend to prevent and try to stop any more wrinkles from developing?
Thanks.
Hello Barbara,
The most effective product on this site to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and puffiness around the eyes is the Olluminate Eye Cream. The Olluminate contains Retinol, which will NOT only reduce fine lines and wrinkles, but prevent new ones from forming. I highly recommend a good stimulative eye cream for use twice a day. In the morning, it should be used before your sunscreen (the last step – before sunscreen). In the evening, it should be used as your last step. The advanced peptides and optical diffusers will also increase epidermal thickness, improve elasticity, and reduce puffiness and dark circles.
Oil of Olay is product I like to refer to as “dessert.” It’s great in addition to a stimulative program that activates the production of healthy skin cells, but should NOT be eaten as your sole meal. You can use Oil of Olay in conjunction with a program that will stimulate the growth of healthy skin cells, including collagen cells and elastin fibers. Oil of Olay is primarily effective at increasing epidermal water content (Skin is comprised of water, lipids, and protein). If you are concerned with your wrinkles, I would start off with a more mild but effective stimulative system such as the DNA Kit. This contains an Exfoliating Cleanser (doesn’t peel skin, but just removes surface dead skin cells), Ossential Growth Factor Serum, Daily Power Defense, and the Oclipse Sunscreen. This is a good start to begin the activation of healthy skin cells.
Remember, that your skin may feel dry, very mildly exfoliate, and tight, in comparison to the saturation of water you have been experiencing now. There is no such thing as a miracle product “great results- no reaction” or I would have it. You will have to get used to the difference between a product that activates skin, and one that only hydrates superficially. Once you begin to activate and stimulate your skin cells, you will be quite pleased with the results. Thank you,
Zein E. Obagi, MD
Hi Doctor Obagi
I have bad cysts and acne.
I try to keep my skin clean but they keep surfacing.
My mom had the same problem when she was a teen and you helped her in San Diego with Accutane and dermabrasion. You also helped my uncle Ruben Camberos. I am not sure if you are the same doctor
But I do not know what to do to stop them.
Do I need Accutane? Thank you for your time.
Thaila
Hello Thaila,
Yes, I had a private practice in San Diego, California for approximately 10-years before I moved my office to Beverly Hills, California 20 years ago. I would be inclined to recommend Accutane (would definitely need to see you in person, first) given the family history of persistent and chronic cystic acne. Acne and overactive or enlarged oil-glands is genetic. If conventional treatments are not working out, it’s time to seek a medical professional to intervene.
The best topical products can be made ineffective if oil acts as a barrier against their penetration. It is best that you use an effective topical program and oral medication. You can make a few calls by utilizing the doctor locator on obagi.com to find out if a specific doctor prescribes Accutane and utilizes the Obagi program (not all utilize Accutane). If you’re in San Diego, my RNP Dianne, will be there on October 16 for a personal appearance at Nordstrom. It would be great if you can make an appointment to see her. Medical advice cannot be effectively dispensed via a questionnaire, it would be much better to see you in person.
By the way, I have never performed dermabrasion. It may have been an Obagi Peel or Obagi Blue Peel that I administered for the scars, after the skin was properly conditioned and prepared. Thanks for tracking me down!
Best,
Zein E. Obagi, MD
Hi, Dr. Obagi:
I have been on NeDerm Maintenace for over a year, I bought the ZO sunscreen and love it, if I were to add one more ZO product to the NeDerm what one would you suggest? If I slowly add, I think I will have a better chance of not upsetting my skin. Thanks
Susan
Hello Susan,
What aspects of the Obagi Nu-Derm system are you utilizing? Can you please describe your skin concerns, how many times a week you apply the Retin-A & Blender, Clear, and any other items you use? This will help me better understand your concerns. However, I am still able to make recommendations that apply to ALL skin types.
I can tell you that I view the ZO Skin Health system and Obagi Nu-Derm system as the circle of health. They’re complementary product lines and only enhance the effects and benefits of one another. The ZO Skin Health product SKUs would actually ENHANCE any and all results from your Obagi Nu-Derm system (maintenance or on daily use) and REDUCE your irritation from the program.
I would like to suggest 2 products for you to incorporate. The Daily Power Defense encourages DNA repair, speeds up the recovery from past sun damage, evens skin tone, and stimulates collagen and elastin. It is soothing, hydrating, and adds another level of protection and benefit to skin when used under the Oclipse. You would add this step DAILY right before your Oclipse (whether you apply Exfoderm or not that day).
The next product is the Ossential Growth Factor Serum. This is an epidermal growth factor that promotes repair, stimulates collagen and elastin, reduces sun damage, and is an excellent anti-inflammatory product to reduce any irritation from Retin-A and Blender. It is the last step you apply at night. Either alone, or AFTER the Retin-A & Blender step. I think you will come to find that the ZO products you incorporate into your program will NOT irritate your skin, but will enhance your results.
Thank you,
Zein Obagi, MD
I suffered from cystic acne while on birth control during my early twenties. I have mild acne scarring and hyper-pigmentation. My acne scars are shallow and rolling, not the typical ice-pick scars you sometimes see. I rarely breakout (now age 27), especially since I started using my clarisonic. I would like to make a dramatic difference in the overall texture of my skin and diminish the appearance of my rolling acne scars and hyper-pigmentation caused from my cystic acne. When I use products that are too harsh they cause an imbalance on the surface layer of my skin and cause me to breakout. I am lost as to what products I need to be using and how to get the results I am looking for. I saw a cosmetic plastic surgeon and they suggested laser therapy, but I am looking for a treatment that is less invasive. I have tried chemical peels and microdermabrasion and was never happy with the results. Sometimes they even caused cystic acne.
I am Italian and have an olive complexion. I can deal with being oily, just would like to address these issues and am stuck on how to do so. Any suggestions on treatment and a skin care regimen would be much appreciated.
Thank you!
Hello Meredith,
The conditions you have described, PIH, cystic acne, scars, (possible melasma) require seeking the help of a medical professional. I can advise you that lasers, chemical peels, or other resurfacing procedures, are NOT indicated for your skin, until you have properly conditioned and prepared skin. You are prone to pigmentation, (even from a basic thing, such as acne) and if your skin is not conditioned and prepared for a specific procedure, you will likely become worse after a resurfacing procedure.
A strong and effective topical program and possible oral medication may be in order here, based on what you have described. There may be components of the ZO Skin Health products you can use in conjunction with a stronger topical RX program, but we can assess that after you have been evaluated by a medical professional experienced (and that word is key) to treat the conditions you are describing. One consultation is not sufficient and may not be consistent what another doctor experienced in treating your conditions would state. A good start would be to make a few phone calls to doctors via the obagi.com physician locator. There are varying levels of skill sets (as there are with Allergan physician locators and MDs that administer Botox- for example). Some are better than others.
Find the doctor that will see you directly, and not an esthetician. -One that will personally become involved with your course of treatment. Please check our special events link and see if you are able to sign up for the Personal Appearance events by me or one of my highly trained staff. We’ll be happy to give you our professional opinion, and point you in the right direction. Thank you.
Zein Obagi, MD
I am beginning a new schedule where I will be swimming in the daytime approx. 3 hours after applying my Obagi a.m. products.
Certainly I will wash my face after with gel, use the toner and reapply my sunscreen, but should I reapply the Clear, Exfoderm and Sunfader as well? How long do these products need to be on the skin to be absorbed and work their magic? Thanks!
Hello Nancy,
3 hours is not sufficient and defeats the purpose of applying the creams. You are better off washing your face in the morning, applying sunscreen, and then swimming. Once you have finished swimming apply your morning Obagi routine. Just extend the time period for your evening routine, to occur no earlier than 9:00 pm. By the way, you should consider the Healthy Skin Protection SPF 35 (Obagi Nu-Derm) or the Oclipse to use on TOP of the Sunfader for longer and broader spectrum protection. During the summer the Sunfader alone is not sufficient, in my opinion, unless you can reapply if every 2 hours. Hope this helps, let me know if you have any further questions.
Best,
Sandra Obagi
Dr. Obagi:
I live in Algeria and I have occasional acne and my pores are a little apparent (especially on my nose and a bit on my cheeks). What do you recommend?
Thanks.
Lily
Hello Lilly,
The weather/climate and environment in Algeria is quite conducive to large pores, acne, and oily skin. Utilizing the Exfoliating Polish about 2-3 times a week in the shower for one minute prior to washing your skin, is an excellent remedy for removing the dead skin and pollution that can accumulate on surface skin. It will also help to unclog your pores.
The Exfoliating Cleanser, to help you thoroughly cleanse your skin and reduce sebum, enhance collagen production, and nourish with Vitamin-E should be used twice daily for a minimum of one minute.
Finally, the Tepads can be utilized after cleansing skin. Use one pad to swipe your entire skin until dry. The use of Tepads can be reduced to one time a day, if breakouts and pores are under control. However, for optimal prevention, utilize twice a day.
These are the 3 products I highly recommend to reduce pores, prevent breakouts, and keep skin clean. To optimally protect your skin, I would add the Oclipse. The sun is quite intense in Algeria, and a good physical block is highly recommended. This should be applied daily, about 15-minutes before you go out-doors.
Thank you,
Zein E. Obagi, MD
Dr. Obagi:
Two week ago my doctor gave me clindamycin gel..but it didn’t work out and my skin became irritated and broke out and got even worse….Now I use Dermalogica ultra calming cleanser and baby soap and topical cream – klobetasol propionate 0.5 mg..
I live in Indonesia. What products are proper for my skin conditions– rosacea, very sensitive skin, oily, acne, pimples, papules, pustules and easy to get irritations..and white heads and black heads….comedones? I would appreciate your opinion.
Henny
Hello Henny,
The weather/climate and environment in Indonesia, especially the year round humidity is also conducive to large pores, acne, oily skin, and flaring up Rosacea as discussed above with another client. I am re-stating what I said above, because a lot applies to you and adding a few more tips.
Utilizing the Exfoliating Polish about 2-3 times a week in the shower for one minute prior to washing your skin, is an excellent remedy for removing the dead skin and pollution that can accumulate on surface skin. It will also help to unclog your pores.
The Exfoliating Cleanser, to help you thoroughly cleanse your skin and reduce sebum, enhance collagen production, and nourish with Vitamin-E should be used twice daily for a minimum of one minute.
Finally, the Tepads can be utilized after cleansing skin. Use one pad to swipe your entire skin until dry. The use of Tepads can be reduced to one time a day, if breakouts and pores are under control. However, for optimal prevention, utilize twice a day.
These are the 3 products I highly recommend to reduce pores, prevent breakouts, and keep skin clean. To optimally protect your skin, I would add the Oclipse.
Baby wash, gentle cleansers, etc., will weaken skin and only provide temporary relief. In the long-run, the acquired sensitivity they create can cause your skin to become more sensitive and flare-up your Rosacea more frequently. There is an Obagi Center in Indonesia that carries the medical components of the Obagi system. The Metronidazole Topical Gel 0.75% from the RosaClear system (by Obagi) and possibly Retin-A & Blender are very effective on Rosacea and components to add with what is recommended above. I prefer the system I gave you above, to other cleansers by Obagi for your condition. All of these may make your skin more sensitive at first, but will help in the long run. Even without the medical components the 3 recommendations above are very helpful.
A good calming cream is the Ommerse PM, that can be used both day and night. It has anti-inflammatory benefits, will hydrate, but will NOT weaken your skin, as it has stimulating ingredients such as, Retinol.
Thank you,
Zein E. Obagi MD
What, if any, is the recommended duration for using 4-6% hyrdroquinone, when using 1-2 times daily??? I am currently using your foaming gel cleanser, toner and SPF.
Deb
Hi Deb,
Thank you for your question. I can tell you that Dr. Obagi does NOT recommend hydroquinone in concentrations above 4%. We never utilize anything higher than what is in our Obagi Nu-Derm system, which is 4% hydroquinone. How long you are placed on our system (HQ- based) depends on the severity of your skin condition. The average person utilizes 1 gram of hydroquinone (Clear) twice a day for about 12 to 18 weeks. Our other HQ based product is the Blender. It is used in conjunction with 0.1% Tretinoin Cream in the evening. Frequency of use again depends on the specific skin type and condition of the person we are treating. A severe case of Melasma requires daily use of Blender and Tretinoin for successful results. Someone with more mild surface pigmentation (from the sun, etc.) may not need it as often.
It is best to discuss your specific concerns and receive the proper recommendation directly from a physician. You can locate a doctor in your area on the obagi.com doctor locator.
Just remember the whole controversy and misguided information with respect to HQ surrounds unregulated (non FDA approved) compounded forms or those produced by disreputable companies. As long as you source your HQ from a reliable FDA approved manufacturer, safety should be well established.
Best,
Sandra Obagi, MBA
Medical Esthetician
Hi, Dr. Obagi. I did an Obagi skin treatment about 12 years ago and it removed my fine lines and dark spots on my cheek.
Although I have been using SkinCeutical sunscreen daily, I have developed brown spots on my cheeks and bridge of my nose. Also spots are now appearing on my forearms.
I use Shiseido products, and live in Hawaii. Please advise how I should treat my sunspots.
Lillian
Hello Lillian,
The Obagi Nu-Derm system is used for a period of 12 to 18 weeks, under the supervision of a physician. Once results are achieved, you are supposed to follow a “maintenance” routine to maintain your results, as you do with “exercise.” Brown spots (and the tendency to form them) is a chronic condition, meaning it is something you must always maintain under control and never really “cure.” There is no way to prevent brown spots from occurring if your skin naturally has more melanocytes (color cells) or unevenly distributed ones, other than keeping them under control and regulated with and HQ (hydroquinone) based product. Effects of HQ are completely out of your skin after one month of stopping use. If you stop using HQ for one month, your brown spots can begin to reoccur.
With respect to your fine lines and wrinkles Retinoids (stronger RX, such as, Tretinoin, Retin-A®) and Retinols (milder, over-the-counter, such as, Growth Factor Serum, Daily Power Defense) are well established to regenerate and stimulate the growth of collagen cells and elastin fibers. Consistent use after correction (at least 2-3 times a week) is necessary to keep skin cells active. One naturally loses collagen at a rate of 1% a year after the age of 28 and at much faster rate with sun exposure, drinking, smoking, etc. Once skin is in an inactive state, the only way to stimulate is with use of a Retinol or Retinoid. Once you stop your retinoid, the natural aging progression of your skin will begin again.
Solution… you can restart your Obagi Nu-Derm system again for about 12 weeks. Once you have achieved the results you desire, go from a daily use to applying the Clear, Tretinoin & Blender, etc., about 2-3 times a week. On your off days, utilize the ZO Skin Health products. These are less aggressive and will keep your skin stimulated. If you’re not ready to jump in to the Nu-Derm system again and the temporary side effects, etc., start off immediately with the ZO Skin Health line. Retinols are a derivative of Tretinoin. Topical application of retinol converts to retinoic acid once applied to skin. Concentration and stability are key components to this conversion. Not all retinols are concentrated enough to induce a result. One thing for sure, is that ZO products are and you will be quite happy with results on fine lines and wrinkles… With brown spots, you may need something more aggressive such as Nu-Derm.
Best,
Sandra Obagi, MBA
Medical Esthetician
My skin is extremely sensitive to heat and harsh products. I have had laser treatment for rosacea 3 times in the last 12 years and don’t believe it would be wise to try that again on my thin skin. I am currently using Rx Clinmycin Phosphate Lotion 1% and Rx Sulfatol Cleanser but do use any form of Retin A.
I loved the only ZO product I have ever tried which was the Oclipse Primer-Sunscreen. I had no breakouts, it covered some redness and worked as a sunscreen.
What ZO products should I add to promote healthy skin? I would love to stop the aging process but am more interested in healthy looking skin regardless of wrinkles. Also, what light cosmetics works best over ZO products?
Thanks!
Lorraine
Dear Lorraine,
Thank you for your question. Given that you are obviously under physician supervision to treat your Rosacea, it is best to discuss other skincare requirements with him or her. Given that your skin is sensitive as a result of the Rosacea, and without seeing you directly, I would recommend the Daily Power Defense in the morning prior to the Oclipse. In the evening (start of every other night – to test tolerance) use the Ossential Growth Factor Serum. This is an epidermal growth factor that will make the epidermis thicker and stronger, and indirectly help with your Rosacea. None of the products you have been prescribed address anti-aging concerns or promote the growth of healthy new cells. After about 2 weeks, you can increase the GFS to every evening. The 2 I recommended will provide you with stimulation of healthy skin cells and improvement in the overall quality and texture of your skin. It is best to discuss implementing these products into your program with your Dermatologist first.
Regards,
Zein E. Obagi, MD
Dr. mcdaniel in virginia beach says that retin a micro is the best retin a to use because it penetrates the skin better. are your retinols comprable or do they act differently than retin a?
Thanks.
Hello Barbara,
Retin-A (all variations and generics – Tretinoin, Renova®, Retin-A Micro, etc.) are prescription strength and require physician monitoring and prescription to dispense. These are retinoic acid based topical creams.
The ZO Skin Health products are NOT retinoic acid, but retinol – a derivative of retinoic acid. Retinols are over-the-counter (OTC) strength and the reason you are able to purchase online or from certain Nordstrom cosmetic department stores. Retinol does convert to retinoic acid once in skin, but not at the same levels present in the Rx versions. However, OTC products are in a very different category than prescription based topicals.
Every physician has his or her opinion of what works best and yours is best qualified to provide you with recommendations since he is directly treating you.
However, in my opinion I believe that Retin-A Micro is much weaker and far less effective than the regular cream form of Retin-A cream. Retin-A Micro tends to be far weaker as a result of the slower delivery system than the regular, original form. It doesn’t improve aging or deeper skin conditions. It is great for acne and more superficial skin conditions. However, for anti aging benefits, stimulation of collagen, tightening of skin and pores, and any deeper pigmentation issues the regular form of Retin-A cream and its generics are optimal. I only recommend the regular form of Retin-A in the cream form (not gel, micro, Renova, etc.) to be used with my Obagi Nu-Derm system.
Thank you,
Best,
Zein E. Obagi, MD
Dear Dr. Obagi and Staff,
I hope Fashion Week was a huge success for you. Ironically. my husband was in NYC on business but I did not get to accompany him. Oh, how I wanted to be there too but oh well…
1.) the facial flaking and peri-oral peeling that I am still experiencing depending on my skins life cycle (more pronounced around the 20th day of every month). Despite the fact that I am the “NuDerm Maintenance” regimen, I have increased the original precentage of Tretinoin from 0.05% in June when I first began to slowly incorporate Zo Skin Health in with th NuDerm and increased the Tretinoin in August to 1.0%.
I chose to pursue a more aggressive course and increase the tretinoin and my skin is showing great signs of improvement. I receive compliments from people, with the exception of my other half who asks me if I am burning my face again? (but he just doe not understand all of this).
I would not consider myself at what I would classify as a Maintenance Mode, since I chose to press on and “kick it up a notch” by increasing the level of Tretinoin at week 18. I am right in that assumption and will things settle down more and more as time goes on?
2.) I have an odd thing (to me) about the skin on my eyelids appearing as if they need to be exfoliated. I have been using MD Forte Skin Rejuvenation Eye Serum also for almost a year, this was whaen they just looked creepy, applied only at night.
I alternate Olluminate Eye Creme in the morning and then I use Elastiderm Eye Creme at night.
ANYTHING you all can offer here will be greatly appreciated, as always. You all are terrific and truly a God send!
I look forward to receiving your kind words of wisdom.
With fondest regards,
Anne
Hi Anne,
Hope that you are doing well. Thank you for asking about Fashion Week, it was a huge success. Dr. Obagi is getting ready for a presentation, followed by leaving town, so he asked me to respond to your questions. I did make sure to “clear” the response with him, since you have been communicating directly with him for so long.
First things first, why are you mixing different product lines? We do not advocate this, because it would be impossible to pinpoint the source of a chemical reaction (mixing product lines). Also, how do you know the effects and benefits of your program are not being negated by adding the application of another product line?
If you have been using Tretinoin and Blender around your eyes approximately 2 days a week (as recommended in our standard protocol), then stopping use for about a week, should induce the exfoliation you desire. Ironically, I am sure you have noticed, when you first STOP Tretinoin and Blender, you peel more the first 2 days.
If you haven’t been using the Tretinoin and Blender step around your eyes, then begin with a very thin layer about 2 days a week, followed by your application of ElastiDerm Eye Cream. Still use ElastiDerm Eye Cream in the evening and the Olluminate in the morning, regardless of whether you are putting the Tretinoin and Blender step. This should give you the desired results. Thanks!
Best,
Sandra Obagi, MBA
Medical Esthetician
PS: Great job on increasing your concentration of Tretinoin from the 0.05% to 0.1% cream. This will definitely boost your collagen synthesis.
Hi Sandra,
I began using another eye product upon the recommendation of an esthetician over a year ago. It was then that I started back on NuDerm as well but never was I told to stop using the other product nor have I ever been told to apply Tretinoin/Blender around my eye area.In fact, the first time I ever saw that was in one of blogs you had written.
I noticed you made a comment regarding the product such as retin-c micro earlier, everyone has his or her own opinion…It’s just that we go to people we trust to give us correct, accurate, knowledgeable advise in the use of your products, in particular.
The skin on my eyelids, when I put a creme eye shadow/primer on looks horrible. It enhances this uneven scaly, dry, flaky look to them and I am sorry I ever applied the creme, so I pat it lightly with a translucent powder and proceed.
I have NEVER used Tretinoin/Blender around my eye area because no one ever informed me that I should. When I apply the combination, do I pat it gently around the eye area in a “C” shape around the orbital bone from under the brow, continuing around the outer corner of my eye and the under my eye following the orbital bone. Do I avoid getting any on the eyelid area?
I do apologize for the extensive run through, all in the efforts of getting it right. Of course, You are probably thinking what I would be thinking if I were you… just use it the same way you have been, just it will be the Tretinoin/Blender instead. Just helps to think out loud.
I see you use and suggest using GFS in the PM with or without Tretitnoin/Blender. I sense that you are very pleased with the results that you are seeing in your skin.
I definitely thank you and Dr. Obagi for enlightening me as to what I should be using around me eyes or not. Some items are hitting the curb as we close.
I look forward to hearing from you Sandra. I have read a number if your other responses and have found them to be very informative.
Thank you for your time.
Anne
Hello Anne,
You are very welcome. It is our pleasure to assist and provide guidance to loyal and compliant patients, such as yourself. You can never ask too many questions. We are always here to help you out.
You are correct in describing the proper application of Tretinoin and Blender. A little skin anatomy lesson is in order before we proceed, because the outcome (but temporary side-effects) will be quite pronounced for you since you haven’t done this in the one year you have been on the program:
The skin around the eyes is quite thin. The epidermis in this area is much thinner than it is on the forehead and cheeks. The skin around the mouth and neck is similar in structure. That is the reason the forehead and cheeks can tolerate the application of Tretinoin & Blender, with less peeling, irritation, redness, etc., in comparison to the mouth area (that peels a lot). The same benefits of applying the Tretinoin & Blender around the eyes as you have achieved on the rest of your face, will be achieved with less frequency around the eyes. It is only necessary to apply the Tretinoin and Blender (T & B), twice a week to the neck and eye area to get the same benefits as applying daily on the rest of the face.
Since you already use Olluminate and the ElastiDerm, there is no need for any other eye cream. The Olluminate contains Retinol to support the formation of collagen and elastin. I don’t want to you dilute the benefits, by using a non-functional eye cream that is purely for emollient purposes. I still want you to use ElastiDerm every morning and the Olluminate in the evening. These two should be used on your lower and upper lids. Yes, start at the outer corner of your eyes and work inwards towards your nose, for the under eye application. Always apply in one direction, from outer eye towards the nose. Don’t pull skin the other direction. For the upper lids and the area just under your eye brows, move from the inside of your eye area towards the outside. Follow the pattern of applying eye-shadow.
Two days a week, apply the (T & B) in a very thin layer to both upper and lower lids as described above, BEFORE the ElastiDerm. Use only a thin layer, removing excess with a tissue if necessary. Avoid the corners of your lids, where creases form with expression to minimize irritation. As you build more tolerance (approximately 4 weeks) you can increase use to 3 days… Remember, fine lines and wrinkles may appear worse in the beginning as the skin in that area dries to prepare to peel. Once the eye area exfoliates and new skin regenerates, you will love the way eye-shadow applies to your skin.
YES.. Definitely use the GFS in the evening regardless of whether or not you apply the (T & B). It is a great product to enhance results. Thank you for your kind feedback with respect to my responses. I have been an Esthetician for 18 years next month. I first obtained my license when I was 18-years old. I have worked for several surgery centers, plastic surgeons, enhancing my knowledge of medical aesthetics and obtaining that distinction. I worked as Special Projects Manager and Sales Rep. for corporate Obagi for 8 years, and have been with Dr. Obagi and his clinics for another 7 years. I am always happy to answer your questions.
Best,
Sandra Obagi, MBA
Medical Esthetician
Hi Sandra,
First things first, thank you so much for your thoroughly detailed instructions. I must tell you though that as I was reading the part where you’re bracing me for the “flaking and peeling”,I am LOL because my dear husband should be used to it by now.As he likes to so delicately put it “Anne,are you burning your face again?” I’m sorry, I plan on aging as gracefully as I possibly can.
The un-nerving thing about the inital skin renewal process is that you aren’t aware that your face free-molting in front of everyone you meet. Then, someone or somehow light is “shed” upon the fact that your are indeed flaking, peeling, whatever and there you are. You live through it and the cycle moves on.
I am glad to know that I will love the way my eyelids are going to look because the skin really needs exfoliating. I knew the usual methods of exfoliation weren’t an option for that area of the your face.
My welcomed discovery of ZO Skin Health was in began in early June using NuDerm Obagi for the 2nd time. Having ZO products to incorporate into my maintenance program was exactly what my individual skin type needed. I am English,just turned 58, fair, freckles,red hair and dry skin (it was combo before the menopause, now everything’s dry). I would like to thank you for creating Body Emulsion and Oraser Hand Creme with SPF protection too by the way!!!
I was a medical technologist for 30 years but hung up my lab coat in order that I could devote more of my time to other interests. I do want to learn how to use both the NuDerm and ZO Skin Health skin care products as they were created to be used.
Thank you for your prompt response to my email and for your learned advice. I can’t believe what I am about to say but I look forward to my “eyelids peeling”…
Much Thanks,
Anne
Hey I might be really late with this whole thing, but just in case if you reply, I have a lot of acne mostly all over my face, I get cystic acne sometimes on my face and there quite painful, but its genetics from may dad plus I’m in that puberty stage but whatever I use on my acne it doesn’t seem to improve, I’ve used tea tree oil, vitamin supplements, but they won’t budge and there getting worse as I progress through puberty, it started off mild, than now its almost severe, and my big brother took accutane when he was my age because he had the same problem I’m 15 years old by the way, than when 5 months of doing the course acne never touched him again, I live in Indonesia and does any of your Dermatologist buildings provide accutane if I need it?
Hello Daniel,
Yes… acne has a genetic component to it, but it is also triggered by hormones, bacteria, poor diet, etc. It sounds like you will need something more aggressive such as, the Obagi Nu-Derm system and possibly oral medication- Accutane. There is an Obagi Center in Indonesia where you can obtain the Obagi Nu-Derm system. I am not sure whether the doctors there prescribe Accutane (or its generics) however, I confirmed with our Indonesian Esthetician that Accutane can be obtained by prescription after seeing your Dermatologist. Accutane will help with your overactive and enlarged oil glands and correct/prevent the acne breakouts. Accutane does NOT correct the scars, large pores, uneven skin texture, and any pigmentation changes that typically accompany cystic acne. That is where the Obagi Nu-Derm system fits in and will quite successfully reduce acne breakouts and the typical side effects of acne.
Vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter topical lotions are not going to address the underlying source of your breakouts. Further, you need to change the habits that inflamed the acne in the first place (not just genetics) and prevent the acne from reoccurring. There are parts of the ZO Skin Health line that can be used with any topical or oral mediation that is prescribed. The four products are the Exfoliating Cleanser, Tepads, Exfoliating Polish, and the Oclipse. These will prevent new breakouts, reduce current breakouts, and are chemically compatible with Obagi Nu-Derm or other topical creams your doctor may prescribe. A good sunscreen that does not clog your pores will be necessary if you are placed on Accutane or any Tretinoin product, such as Retin-A®, thus the Oclipse recommendation.
Best,
Sandra Obagi, MBA
Medical Esthetician