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Should You Stop Applying Vitamin C In Autumn & Winter?

obagi vitamin c

The warm days might be lingering, but as we edge further into September, it can mean only one thing. Colder, autumnal weather is on the horizon and like the flick of a switch, that can wreak havoc on our skin, hair, immune system, and mental health. 

On the surface, things might seem pretty bleak. Yet autumn is the season that brings a kaleidoscope of colour to the world with its rich oranges, yellows, and browns. In fact, you can banish the gloom by counteracting the effects of reduced sunlight and the drop in temperature. 

Light therapy lamps and sunrise alarm clocks help the body’s natural rhythms adjust to the change in daylight levels. Vitamin C supplements, on the other hand, boost the immune system. But with so many products out there, it can be tricky to know what you should do about skincare?

What happens to Skin During Autumn and Winter?

It’s during these months that skin is most likely to get dry, rough, chapped, itchy, and sensitive. Not to mention the fact that the complexion seems to lose its sparkle and can often look lack-lustre and dull. 

Truly frustrating skincare woes, I think we’d all agree! The main cause is cold, dry air which contains less moisture than warm air. Add central heating whacked up to maximum and going full belt into the equation, and it’s no wonder that skin suffers at this time of year. To cap it all off, harsh winds are damaging to the skin’s barrier, the protective mechanism that keeps skin healthy and the moisture in.

With this all in mind, antioxidant protection, intense moisture, and extra nutrients are the obvious solutions. But what about Vitamin C? Should it stay or should it go?

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Why is Vitamin C Important in Skincare During Autumn and Winter?

Vitamin C is one ingredient that has a multitude of year-round benefits. It’s most well-known for its skin brightening properties, perfect for restoring a natural glow to dull autumn skin and evening out skin tone. 

This powerful antioxidant also offers extra- strength protection, defending skin against future damage caused by unstable atoms (free radicals) and environmental factors including the weather. The calming effect of this particular vitamin helps with reducing skin inflammation and irritation, issues that often crop up during colder periods. And it can also help to retain moisture, so pivotal at this time of year, ensuring that dehydrated skin is optimally nourished and hydrated.

Vitamin C is a winner for anyone concerned about the signs of ageing because it can be used as a targeted treatment for fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. That’s because it promotes collagen production, leading to an improvement in elasticity, firmness, and resilience.

Obagi Professional-C® Serum

Obagi have created the fast-absorbing Professional-C® Serum, available in three strengths, which can be applied as part of a daily skincare routine. Molecules within a serum are smaller than normal, meaning that a higher concentration of powerful active ingredients are delivered and penetrate the skin more deeply.

Obagi Professional-C® Serum has been formulated with L-ascorbic Acid, Vitamin C in its most pure and potent form to ensure its supreme effectiveness. Clinical studies were carried out and demonstrated that Obagi Professional-C® Serum penetrates the epidermis and dermis significantly better than most other Vitamin C serums.

On application, you can expect to see noticeable, instant results as this wonderfully silky serum immediately soothes and nourishes the complexion. Skin radiance is given a turbo-charged boost and is left wonderfully glowing and feeling incredibly revitalized. 

With regular use, you’ll also see a longer-term improvement to fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots, reduced skin inflammation and irregular pigmentation and a much smoother, hydrated complexion. If you’ve not tried a Vitamin C serum before, we’d suggest Obagi Professional-C® Serum (10%) for those with dry, irritated, or sensitive skin. It’s a gentle yet rich concentration that ensures instant radiance.

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We also love the Pure Obagi Vitamin C Starter Kit, an ideal set for those with dry or sensitive skin to get autumn off to the best start. Aside from the obvious Professional-C® Serum (10%), the kit comes with Obagi-C® C-Cleansing Gel, a highly effective cleanser that removes deep-seated oil and dirt, whilst priming skin to optimally absorb follow-on products. It also includes the unrivalled Obagi Hydrate® which uses Hydromanil™ technology to improve moisture content for up to 8 hours, as duly demonstrated by the clinical trials.  With this Pure Obagi kit, the skin is transformed from within, correcting damage to reveal healthier and younger looking skin.

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Our Obagi Professional-C® Serum (15%) can be used for most skin types. It’s a more concentrated, luxurious serum that provides even stronger antioxidant protection and of course, that signature Vitamin C glow.

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Alternatively, for those with a normal-oily complexion, opt for Obagi Professional-C® Serum (20%). The strongest formulation of the trio, it provides an instant glow without skin looking greasy and offers the ultimate in antioxidant protection. Lucky you!

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How To Get Clear Skin In Weeks With Obagi

Obagi skin test

Clear skin is something to which we all aspire. Whilst a rare few of us are fortunate enough to be naturally blessed with it, most of us have to work a little harder. But the good news is that clear skin is achievable. Being diligent with a regular skincare routine that uses products formulated for your skin type will most definitely result in an improvement. So where do you start?

 Pure Obagi Skin Test

Before you hit the purchase button, it’s vital to know your skin type. Otherwise, you face the prospect of simply throwing money down the drain with ineffectual products. 

We always recommend that you take our free skin test to receive personalised skincare tips. Taking the Pure Obagi skin test will also help to identify your Fitzpatrick skin type and prioritise your skincare concerns. 

As you go through our test, it will begin by offering advice on how to limit sun damage, depending on where your skin falls on the Fitzpatrick skin spectrum and whether you have normal, oily, dry, combination, sensitive or dehydrated skin. With this information to hand, you can then go on to create an effective daily skincare routine.

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Obagi® Skincare Systems

A skincare system is a set of products that have been designed to work synergistically and complement one another. It enables you to achieve optimal results from your skincare products in surprisingly quick time. 

So if you’re on the look-out for clear, radiant skin, use a system that will attend to spots and blemishes, balance skin and slough away dead cells and detritus that cause a dull complexion. 

Obagi® has created a number of highly effective skincare systems formulated for different skin types and skincare concerns. Best Selling Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® System is an innovative, clinically proven skincare system. Its products are truly transformative, meaning that they actively change cells from within, which is why there’s such a significant improvement in the appearance of skin. Available in normal-dry and normal-oily, this all-round comprehensive skincare line addresses all of the common skincare concerns including:

·       Spots and blemishes

·       Signs of ageing

·       Hyperpigmentation and discolouration

·       Dullness

·       Dehydration

·       Erythema (redness)

·       Rough Skin

Dermatologically tested on the Fitzpatrick spectrum, these products are suitable for all skin types and age-groups. Clinical tests demonstrated that users saw a significant improvement to their complexion over the course of 12-24 weeks and that 96% of patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the overall effectiveness of their treatment. 

Choose Pure Obagi Exfoliating Kit Normal to Dry or Pure Obagi Exfoliating Kit Normal to Oily to get your mission to clearer skin kick-started. Containing a cleanser, toner, exfoliator and SPF, these kits work to smooth and brighten the complexion, leaving skin noticeably clearer and more radiant. Additionally, potent ingredients protect against future damage and tackle the visible signs of ageing. It’s a win-win!

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The OBAGI360® system has been specifically formulated with the 20-30 age-group in mind, the aim being to preserve youthful looking skin. Enlarged pores, acne and blemishes might be a concern if you’re in this age-group. Sounds familiar? Then OBAGI360® Retinol 0.5 is a must-have product because it increases cell turnover, keeping pores clear and diminishing acne. Add this onto your daily skincare routine by applying one pump to the entire face each evening. With regular use, skin looks purified, clearer, and healthier.

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Once you’ve established a regular skincare system, you can add in follow-on products to begin addressing more of your concerns. For example, Obagi ELASTIderm® harnesses a patented Bi-Mineral Contour Complex™ to visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles around the face, eyes, neck, and décolletage. So, if signs of ageing are really niggling at you, this remarkable range is an absolute must. Regular use of its facial serum and eye products ensures firmer, resilient, and more youthful looking skin.

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Another skincare system Obagi Professional-C® utilises one of skincare’s most popular ingredients, Vitamin C in its purest form, L-ascorbic Acid. It’s not hard to understand this vitamin’s iconic status when you hear about the multitude of benefits it offers. 

This powerful antioxidant takes on a defensive role, protecting against cell damage and premature ageing caused by free radicals and environmental stressors. On the flipside, Vitamin C also promotes collagen production, essential for supple, elastic skin and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. Not to mention the fact that Vitamin C boosts the effects of SPF and is infamous for its incredible skin-brightening properties, leaving behind a bright, radiant complexion. 

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Choose the Obagi® skincare system that’s right for you and reap the benefits of clearer, brighter, healthier, and of course, the holy-grail of all skincare, younger-looking skin within a matter of weeks.

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How To Transition Your Skincare From Summer To Autumn

Moisturised skin

As much as we hate to admit it, summer seems to have come to an end and that means we’ll have to slowly prepare ourselves for autumn. Even though in some countries summer is still in full swing, we are fully aware that this will likely change over the next few weeks. The days will get shorter, the temperatures will drop and unfortunately, we’ll have to prepare for a lot more rain. With the seasons changing, we often find our skins to struggle a bit more than usual. It takes some time for your skin to get used to the drop in temperature and it might cause your skin to start breaking out more or get more dry and flaky. Whatever your skin type is, this is how you transition your skincare routine from summer to autumn 2021.  

Why do you need to switch up your skincare routine every season?

You might be wondering why it’s necessary to switch up your skincare routine now that autumn is incoming. Perhaps you’re one of the lucky ones whose skin stays perfectly clear, hydrated and bright the entire year around. We’re envious. But if that doesn’t sound like you, then there’s nothing to worry about, as most people struggle with changes in their skin. Whether it’s due to hormonal changes, seasonal changes or simply bad habits, it’s time to assemble skincare products that work for you. Every skin is unique, which means a unique skincare routine is required for everybody. Before we get started, it’s important to know what skin type you have. After all, you cannot expect a product that is specifically designed for dry skin to work well on your oily skin. And the other way around. If you’re in doubt about your skin type, you can take our skin test that will list your skincare needs based on five simple questions. 

What skincare products are best to use in autumn?

When you think about summer skincare, chances are high that you immediately think of Vitamin C and SPF. These are two essentials that cannot be missing from one’s summer skincare routine. But what about autumn? What products does your skin need when moving into autumn? If you have normal to dry skin, you will most likely start to notice your skin starting to get more dry and maybe even flaky during the colder months. For this reason, it’s important to incorporate a nourishing, deeply hydrating moisturiser into your skincare routine. Obagi Hydrate® is suitable for all skin types and might be the perfect autumn skincare product. The moisturiser provides all-day hydration, without making the skin look too glowy or oily. As Obagi Hydrate® doesn’t block pores, it’s also suitable for those with oily skin. 

Obagi Hydrate® Facial Moisturiser
Obagi Hydrate® Facial Moisturiser

Now that summer is over, we’re missing the glowy look we got from the sunshine. If your skin appears more dull in autumn, we recommend using skin brightening products, such as Obagi Nu-Derm® Blend Fx or Obagi-C® Fx C-Clarifying Serum

Obagi-C® Fx C-Clarifying Serum

Should you be wearing SPF in autumn?

Now that summer is over, it’s time to store your SPF until summer 2022 begins. Right? Absolutely not! Contrary to what a lot of people think, SPF should actually be applied all year round. Yes, that’s right, even on the rainiest autumn days or coldest winter days. The reason for this is that UV rays are always present, whether you can physically see the sun or not. Don’t forget that the sun is always there, and it will find its way through the clouds to damage your skin. Use Obagi sun protection to protect your skin from any sun damage, helping it to keep it young and healthy. It will only take a little bit of yourself and we are sure your future self will love you for it!

Obagi Sun Protection
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A Quick And Easy Morning Skincare Routine For Mums On The Go

obagi facial twin set

Every year, the same thing happens. The summer holidays seem to go on forever, or at least that’s how it feels. Then all of a sudden, the start of the new school year is just around the corner and, of course, the usual panic sets in. No more lie-ins or relaxed mornings, instead chaos will shortly be resuming once more. 

If the prospect of buttering sandwiches at 100 kilometres an hour, shouting at the kids to get out of bed for the nth time or having to deal with an untimely meltdown as you desperately head for the door, is bringing you out into a cold sweat, you’re not alone. 

The first thing that often goes in this situation is our own self-care. Prioritising everyone else means that we skimp on things like skincare, make-up or even brushing our teeth. Anything to get them to school on time, right?

But there are some things that we can do to make life a bit easier for ourselves. Having a super quick, highly effective skincare routine is one thing you can do. Then, even if you have to leave home without make-up, your complexion will be so naturally radiant, it won’t even matter.

A Quick and Easy Morning Skincare Routine for Mums on the Go

The old adage about cleansing, toning, and moisturising came about for good reason. After all, it really is the best way to keep your skin in prime condition. Add to that a skin care range that uses ingredients which work at a deep, cellular level, visibly changing the appearance of your skin, then you’re onto a winning formula.

Obagi® are a premium skincare brand with over 30 years of scientific expertise and clinically proven results. Specifically formulated to transform skin from within, these incredibly effective products leave the complexion looking noticeably healthier, more radiant, and the ace card, younger looking. 

The great thing is that Obagi® skin care products have been designed to accommodate the entire Fitzpatrick skin spectrum and are dermatologist approved and tested for all skin types. Key ingredients including Vitamin C, Retinol and Arbutin target common skincare concerns. So, no matter whether you’re concerned about hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, or spots and blemishes, Obagi® can offer a solution.

Pure Obagi® Facial Twin Kit

This is the ideal skincare kit for mums on the run, available in Normal-Dry and Normal-Oily, revealing healthy, glowing skin, and proactively targeting early signs of ageing as well as powerfully defending against further damage.

For those with dry or sensitive skin, Obagi Nu-Derm® Fx Gentle Cleanser is a remarkably soothing formulation. Natural nourishers like Oat Amino Acids, Aloe, Apricot Kernel Oil and Panthenol are included to calm irritation and inflammation and hydrate skin. It’s also rich in Sage Leaf Extract and Borago Officinalis Extract to remove excess oils and impurities whilst smoothing and brightening the complexion.

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Alternatively, for normal to oily skin, Obagi Nu-Derm® Fx Foaming Gel, effectively removes makeup, oil residue and impurities caused by the everyday environment. It also includes the signature hero ingredients of Oat Amino Acids, Aloe, and Borago Officinalis Extract. Additionally, Chamomile Extract, known to reduce irritation, is included for its anti-inflammatory properties, ideal for those prone to acne, blemishes, or rosacea. 

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Ideal for quick, but effective deep cleansing, that you can fit in before the kids wake up, these cleansers will effectively remove oil residue and impurities that have surfaced during the night, leaving your skin purified and radiant. 

Used as part of your evening routine, you’ll also find that they clear away debris caused by the everyday environment and of course, effectively remove make-up, ensuring that follow-on skincare products can penetrate more deeply and work optimally. 

Obagi Nu-Derm® Fx Toner, is a non-drying, alcohol free formulation that corrects and maintains the skin’s delicate pH balance. Hero ingredient, Witch Hazel, tightens skin and another key component, Aloe is re-known for its highly soothing properties, priming skin for the next step, hydration.

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Obagi Hydrate®

One of the brand’s bestsellers, Obagi Hydrate® contains innovative, advanced Hydromanil™ technology. Derived from the Tara Seed, an ingredient known for its water retention properties, the molecules form a matrix on the skin’s surface. Not only does this instantly nourish skin, but it prevents further water loss and allows gradual delivery of further nourishment from active compounds for up to eight hours throughout the day. 

For busy mums, you can feel confident that your skin will be thoroughly nourished, hydrated, and actively protected against environmental stressors that cause premature ageing.

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The Obagi Products Celebs Swear By

Celebrity skincare

Stop the press. Female celebrities have been seen out and about without a stitch of make-up on, with their beautiful bare skin glowing for the cameras. Nowadays more and more celebs are going bare, with great skincare being the new make-up, it can be seen everywhere. In newspapers and magazines, on social media and in the flesh at big industry red carpet events. You might have even joined in the no make-up movement, at first it seems daunting, but when you realise the true beauty in your skin there’s no turning back.

So what’s going on here? And why do we still seem to be shocked whenever we see someone comfortable in their own skin? It’s reassuring to see strong, talented, and empowered female celebrities. Surely these are the role-models that we want for our daughters right?

The No-Makeup Movement’s mantra,‘bare means beautiful’ is gathering momentum by the day. Rather than slathering on a ton of make-up, many have chosen to focus on their skincare routine to achieve a flawless, luminous look instead. 

It sounds like a great philosophy, But how do you get incredible natural skin that becomes the talk of the town? The answer is simple. Try the best-selling Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® System, loved and followed by many male and female A-list celebrities.

Is The Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® System Suitable For My Skin Type?

This highly effective skincare system is available in 2 different kits, one for normal to dry skin, and another for normal to oily skin. Both Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® System kits are designed with active ingredients to reduce acne, hyperpigmentation and minimise tell-tale signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles.

What’s In The Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® System?

The Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® System uses a wonder ingredient, arbutin, at a powerful 7% concentration. This natural and effective skin-brightening agent is included in both Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® Systems. Packed with antioxidants and exfoliants, this comprehensive skin system has everything you need to unleash your skin’s full potential, the make-up free days are ahead of you.  

Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® System Normal to Dry Skin line includes:

  • Obagi Nu-Derm® Gentle Cleanser 
  • Obagi Nu-Derm® Toner
  • Obagi Nu-Derm® Clear Fx
  • Obagi Nu-Derm® Exfoderm®
  • Obagi Nu-Derm® Blend Fx
  • Obagi Hydrate®
  • Sun Shield Matte™ Broad Spectrum SPF50
Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® System - Normal To Dry
Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® System – Normal To Dry

Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® System Normal to Oily Skin line includes:

  • Obagi Nu-Derm® Foaming Gel
  • Obagi Nu-Derm® Toner
  • Obagi Nu-Derm® Clear Fx
  • Obagi Nu-Derm® Exfoderm® Forte
  •  Obagi Nu-Derm® Blend Fx
  •  Obagi Hydrate®
  • Sun Shield Matte TM Broad Spectrum SPF50
Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® System - Normal to Oily
Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® System Normal to Oily Skin

Do Celebs Use Obagi?

Yes! A bold favourite amongst Hollywood actresses is the Obagi Nu-Derm® Clear Fx. 

This unique skin-brightening corrective cream lightens dark spots and pigmentation, leaving skin brighter, smoother and more even toned. It’s suitable for most skin types so can easily be slotted into your daily skincare ritual.

Obagi Nu-Derm® Clear Fx has been formulated with 7% arbutin, this powerhouse ingredient is extracted from bearberry plants, and prevents the production of tyrosinase – the enzyme in the skin responsible for melanin production that leads to sunspots, a sign of the ageing process. Additional antioxidants, including lactic acid, help enhance the appearance of even skin tone while protecting the skin from free radicals. It’s a fantastic addition to any skincare routine, leaving skin looking radiant, and even toned.

You deserve red carpet ready skin too!

Which moisturizer do celebrities use?

Any celebrity worth their salt completes their skincare routine with a deeply nourishing moisturiser. All of Obagi’s hydrators have been clinically proven to provide eight hours of skin moisture retention with innovative 2-in-1 Hydromanil™ Technology (Hydrate® and Hydrate Luxe®) and Isoplentix™ Technology (Daily Hydro-Drops™). 

So what exactly is Hydromanil™? It might sound like an interesting scientific discovery but does it do anything useful? The answer is a resounding yes! In actual fact, this cutting edge technology is the key to longer-lasting hydration. Derived from the Tara Seed, which retains water, Hydromanil™ molecules form a matrix on the skin’s surface. A strong barrier is absolutely crucial because it enables water to remain on the cells for longer, instantly nourishing skin, preventing further water loss and equally important, gradually delivering further nourishment from active compounds over time.

Even better is patented microfluidic Isoplentix™ technology, which means that each droplet of each key ingredient is made individually and suspended to preserve its purest form until the time of application. Isoplentix™ technology also removes the need for unnecessary emulsifiers that can irritate sensitive skin.

Obagi Hydrate®, utilises these ground-breaking technological advancements plus naturally enriching ingredients like Shea Butter, Mango Butter and Avocado Oil. It’s hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and suitable for all skin types. 

If you want to banish skin dryness forever, follow the celebs and add this hydrator to your daily skincare repertoire. It can also be used as a targeted treatment for fine lines, wrinkles and crow’s feet.  Used regularly as part of your skincare routine, skin will feel unbelievably smooth and supple and appear gloriously radiant, and look more youthful.

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3 Ingredients You Should & Shouldn’t Pair With Retinol

obagi cleansers

Retinol is a powerful skincare ingredient that you’ve probably heard of many times. Maybe you even use some form of retinoid in your skincare routine, which is great, as the benefits and results can be truly outstanding.

However if you’re using a retinol and not partnering it with the correct ingredients, you might be experiencing some frustrating side effects, including erythema (redness), irritation and dry skin. Read our 3 retinol do’s and don’ts to find out which ingredients make the perfect pairing and which should be avoided immediately.

3 Ingredients That Pair Well With Retinol

Peptides

Retinol has some amazing benefits, one of them being it speeds up skin cell turnover, which in turn reduces fine lines and wrinkles. However, in the process it can make your skin feel dry, so loading up on hydrating biomimetic peptides like Hydromanil will make sure you feel the full advantages of retinol without the dryness.

Combat dryness and boost hydration with Obagi Hydrate®. This best selling daily moisturizer contains Hydromanil™, a peptide that forms a matrix on the skin preventing moisture loss, by locking in the moisture from the shea butter, mango butter and avocado oil, all present  in the Obagi Hydrate® formula. This luxury product is clinically proven to provide long lasting hydration for up to 8 hours, making it a definite must-have to use alongside retinol.

Obagi Hydrate® Facial Moisturiser
Obagi Hydrate® Facial Moisturiser

SPF

Retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, which is why it’s a no-brainer to include both retinol and SPF in your skincare routine. Due to possible photosensitivity it is often advised to apply retinol based products in the evening, before bed. When you wake up in the morning, finish your skincare routine with a high factor UVA and UVB protective SPF.

A great broad spectrum SPF to keep your skin youthful and protected is the Obagi Sun Shield Matte™ Broad Spectrum SPF 50. This product leaves a matte, shine free finish and uses both chemical and physical UV filters to keep your skin from sun damage. By using this product the morning after you apply retinol the night before, you’ll prevent the breakdown of collagen and elastin, pigmentation and wrinkles, helping your skin look youthful and radiant.

Obagi Sun Shield Matte™ Broad Spectrum SPF 50 - Featured in Cosmopolitan
Obagi Sun Shield Matte™ Broad Spectrum SPF 50 – Featured in Cosmopolitan

Niacinamide

Niacinamide helps to hydrate the skin, which reduces dryness that is sometimes associated with retinol use. Niacinamide also has great pore size reducing properties, as well as the ability to lighten pigmentation and discolouration. It is best to leave a 5 minute gap between applying niacinamide and retinol so that you can be sure the first product is fully absorbed before applying the second.

A brilliant niacinamide infused product is the Obagi Daily Hydro-Drops™ Facial Serum. This powerhouse serum contains niacinamide, omega fatty acids, hibiscus oil and vitamin B3. The addition of the omega fatty acids helps to restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier, locking in hydration, a great attribute when also applying retinol.

Obagi Daily Hydro Drops
Obagi Daily Hydro-Drops™ Facial Serum

3 Ingredients That You Shouldn’t Use With Retinol

PHAs, BHAs or AHAs

You shouldn’t use any acids alongside retinol, whether its alpha-hydroxy acids, beta-hydroxy acids or poly-hydroxy acids; they’re all a big no no in the skincare rule book!

Retinol exfoliates the skin, revealing brighter, more even skin underneath. Acids also have powerful exfoliating properties, so using both together will irritate your skin, possibly exfoliating beyond the dead skin cell build up and into the top layers of the skin, causing redness, irritation and inflammation.

Benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide kills the acne causing bacteria that lives on the surface of the skin, reducing breakouts. Much like acids, benzoyl peroxide also exfoliates the skin to reduce congestion and blocked pores. If used in conjunction with retinol too much exfoliation will occur and you’ll most likely experience some unwelcome irritation.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerhouse antioxidant that makes a great addition to any skincare routine. However, your skin requires a low pH between 0 to 3.5 to be able to absorb vitamin C. Retinol needs a higher pH level between 5.5 and 6. When layering vitamin C and retinol the pH will balance out, making both products less effective. So although you may not experience any negative side effects, you will not benefit from either ingredients.

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Skincare To Watch List: The Obagi360 Collection

OBAGI360 HydraFactor® Broad Spectrum SPF 30

If you’re in your 20s and 30s, you’d be forgiven for feeling invincible. And why not? After all, your skin is youthful and at its prime. You’re independent, building a career, and achieving some of your aspirations and dreams. It’s difficult to think too far ahead and imagine getting older especially when life’s about living in the moment right?

But it’s the invisible damage caused by sun exposure, smoking, alcohol, stress, lack of sleep and other lifestyle factors during the teenage years and 20s that starts to appear as early as the 30s and 40s. These premature signs of ageing can include fine lines and wrinkles, discoloration, loss of resilience, dullness, dehydration, and uneven texture. Understandably, it can all come as quite a shock. So, how do you preserve younger-looking skin and future-proof it from premature ageing? The good news is that it’s really quite simple. Making skincare a priority during your 20s and 30s will ensure that it stays youthful and radiant for as long as possible.

Obagi® Skincare Systems

During the 20s, our skin often suffers from post-puberty hormonal imbalances so acne, blemishes and enlarged pores are all common concerns during this era. Skin might also begin to look a little more tired and dull, especially towards the later 20s as damage begins to accumulate. Getting into a good skincare routine early on, however, will set a foundation for a lifetime of beautiful skin. This is the decade to build good habits and establish a daily routine of cleansing, toning, exfoliating, moisturising, and applying a broad-spectrum SPF.

Using a skincare system is imperative to get off to a great start. That’s because products within a skincare system have been created to work synergistically and complement one another, prepping skin for the follow-on products. The pioneering skincare brand, Obagi® has created a range of skincare systems tailored to different skin types and concerns. Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® System and OBAGI360® System are recommended for those in their 20s and 30s.

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Pure Obagi Exfoliating Kit

Available in Normal-Dry and Normal-Oily, this kit contains everything you need to clean, purify, brighten, and smooth the skin whilst simultaneously preventing premature ageing.

Obagi Nu-Derm® Gentle Cleanser effectively lifts make-up, dirt, debris, and dead skin cells, preparing the skin for the rest of your skincare routine and enabling follow-on products to penetrate more deeply. Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® Exfoderm or Exfoderm® Forte harnesses the power of acid exfoliation to reveal brighter, exceptionally radiant skin, boost hydration, visibly diminish spots and blemishes and improve overall skin tone and texture too.

Since acid exfoliation can make skin more sun-sensitive though, Obagi360 HydraFactor® SPF30 has been included in this kit to provide high factor protection and prevent sun-damage, a major factor in the ageing process.

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OBAGI360® Retinol 0.5

On top of the normal daily skincare routine, it’s a great idea to add in some targeted products. This is where OBAGI360® can assist as products within this range have been specifically formulated with a dual-purpose, to leave skin fresh and purified as well as take preventative action against premature ageing.

Skin cell turnover begins to slow down as we grow older, but retinol boosts this process. By doing this, more collagen is produced which is what keeps the skin supple and elastic. It’s this action that stops fine lines and wrinkles from forming but also smooths out any that have already appeared. Another benefit of increasing skin cell turnover is that it keeps pores clear which also reduces blemishes and spots. With regular use, skin looks visibly clearer, healthier, and younger.

During your 20s and 30s, you can begin to use a low strength retinol, and this will help you to gradually build up to a higher strength as and when you need it later on. OBAGI360® Retinol 0.5 is a lower- level retinol cream that’s powerful yet gentle. This formulation can even be used for sensitive skin since clinical skin trials have been carried out to ensure that this retinol product is minimally irritating.

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OBAGI360 HydraFactor® SPF30

We can’t stress enough the importance of using a daily sunscreen to future-proof your skin against sun-damage, premature ageing and skin cancer. Use it every-day, even during wintertime and even when you don’t plan to go out!

Obagi360 HydraFactor® SPF30 offers all-day hydration through Hydromanil™ technology plus the security of having broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA/UVB rays. This effective formulation works by absorbing UV rays and releasing them from the body. Additionally, Aloe and Witch Hazel have been added to calm and tighten the skin, whilst AHAs gently exfoliate, all of which translates into a beautifully smooth, radiant, and most importantly well-protected complexion.

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3 Ways to Enhance Your SPF Protection

3 Ways To Enhance Your SPF

Wearing an SPF is widely regarded as a skincare essential. Not only does wearing the right SPF protect you from skin cancers, it will also prevent premature ageing, as sun damage is known to cause sagging, pigmentation formation and the development of fine lines and wrinkles.

Choosing the correct Sun Protection Factor is the easy bit, look for a UVA and UVB protective sunscreen with a high SPF factor (30+ is good) to keep your skin supple and shielded from damage. After choosing your sunscreen you might wonder how you can really make the most of it, we’re here to show you three ways to enhance your SPF this summer!

Partner SPF With Vitamin C

Introducing the power couple of summer 2022, vitamin C and SPF. In a 2013 study is was found that “sunscreens block only 55% of the free radicals produced by UV exposure”, when under strict lab conditions it was shown that applying a 10% vitamin C serum reduced UVB-induced redness by 52%, as well as reducing sunburn cell formation by 40-60%. So, forget Love Island, the perfect couple this summer is vitamin C and SPF!

Apply a light layer of the Obagi Professional-C® Serum 10% to your skin prior to applying your SPF as part of your morning routine. Allow this potent antioxidant serum to absorb before continuing with your skincare routine. Not only will this serum naturally boost your sunscreen, it will also brighten your complexion and help to create a more even tone by reducing the appearance of broken capillaries and mild pigmentation. 

Obagi Professional-C® Serum 10% - Featured in Grazia
Obagi Professional-C® Serum 10% – Featured in Grazia

Apply Your SPF at the Right Time

Firstly, you’ll need a broad spectrum SPF, this means that the product protects against both UVA and UVB rays, a brilliant choice is the Obagi Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50. This best selling, fragrance-free, sunscreen uses both chemical and physical ingredients to keep you shielded from sun damage.

As a general skincare rule, apply your SPF last, allowing all the lighter serums and creams to be applied first. Make sure all of your other skincare products applied prior to SPF have fully absorbed before applying your sunscreen. By doing this you’ll be getting the most from your products and keeping your skin protected.

Obagi Sun Shield Matte™ Broad Spectrum SPF 50 - Featured in Cosmopolitan
Obagi Sun Shield Matte™ Broad Spectrum SPF 50 – Featured in Cosmopolitan

Eat SPF Boosting Foods

Who would’ve thought it, eating certain foods can help protect your skin from sun damage! Eating antioxidant rich foods like blueberries will help to fight off the free radicals that can damage the skin, blueberries are also a brilliant source of vitamin C, another powerful antioxidant that will help brighten the skin and prevent premature ageing.

A study published by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that eating Watermelon can help protect your skin from sun damage and reduce wrinkle formation. Watermelon contains lycopene, this antioxidant absorbs UVA and UVB radiation, it can take several weeks for it to take effect, however after this time your skin is sure to become more photoprotective, with lycopene acting as a natural sunscreen. So this summer, why not try adding watermelon to your diet, this shouldn’t replace the use of SPF creams, however a little added boost is always helpful, especially for those looking to keep their skin looking youthful.

Here you have it, 3 ways to naturally boost your SPF this Summer – now you can enjoy the sunshine, safely knowing your skin is protected and premature ageing is a distant memory.

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What Order Should You Apply Skincare in Your Summer Routine?

Radiant summer skin

The heat of the Summer can leave many of us wanting to ditch the thicker skincare products. However if you layer your products correctly, they should all be absorbed and the heat shouldn’t interfere with your skincare routine – sounds like bliss!

In What Order Should I Apply Skincare in Summer?

To put it simply, start with the lighter, thinner, water based products first, and then gradually layer on your thicker, oil based products, with SPF being applied at the very end.

By applying from lightest to heaviest, you are preventing any physical barriers from a thicker product getting in the way of absorption, by doing this you’ll really make the most of each of your skincare products.

In Summer this principle stays the same, lighter products first, heavier products last. Cleansing comes first, always. If your skin then needs to be rebalanced, apply your toner. After this start with your water based serums, perhaps your hyaluronic acid serums. Then you’ll want to progress onto your thicker serums, vitamin C serums or retinol creams as these are more likely to be oil based. Then go in with the lighter creams, and thicker moisturizers, and top it all off with a good layer of SPF.

It is vital that your SPF is applied last, by doing this you are ensuring that it is as efficient as it can be at protecting your skin from harmful UV and environmental damage.

How to Start an Anti-Ageing Skincare Routine?

Here’s an example of a brilliant anti-ageing Summer skincare routine, and the order in which it should be applied for optimal results.

Step 1 – Cleanse

The Obagi-C® Fx C-Cleansing Gel will gently cleanse your skin, removing dead skin cell build up, and any dirt, excess sebum and make up. This cleanser has been infused with vitamin C, so not only will it leave your skin feeling squeaky clean, it’ll also experience a boost in radiance.

Obagi-C® Fx C-Cleansing Gel
Obagi-C® Fx C-Cleansing Gel

Step 2 – Tone

After cleansing you’ll want to apply the Obagi-C® Fx Balancing Toner to a cotton disk, and lightly smoothe this over dry skin. This will help to restore the skin’s natural pH levels, repair the skin barrier and remove any excess sebum or congestion left behind during cleansing.

Obagi-C Balancing Toner
Obagi-C® Fx Balancing Toner

Step 3 – Exfoliate

If you’re looking to achieve younger, more refined skin you’ll want to exfoliate once to twice per week. A great product for the job is the Obagi Professional-C® Microdermabrasion Polish + Mask. This potent antioxidant scrub contains 30% l-ascorbic acid (the purest form of vitamin C) and ultra fine crystals to buff away dead skin cell build up, revealing softer, more radiant skin underneath.

MICRODERMABRASION POLISH AND MASK
Obagi Professional-C® Microdermabrasion Polish + Mask

Step 4 – Brighten

Brighten your complexion and diminish pigmentation with the Obagi Professional-C® Serum 15% (also available with 10% or 20% vitamin C). This serum is next to be applied as it’s the lightest of the serums and creams in this routine. Apply a few drops to the face and neck and allow it to fully absorb before moving onto the next step. This serum will stimulate collagen and elastin production, creating smoother, tighter skin with a more youthful appearance. Fine lines and wrinkles will be reduced and pigmentation will be lighter with consistent use.

Obagi Professional-C Serum 15%
Obagi Professional-C® Serum 15%

Step 5 – Hydrate

We all know that in every great skincare routine there must be an equally brilliant moisturiser, Obagi Hydrate® is just that! This best selling cream is infused with mango, shea butter and HydromanilTM. HydromanilTM forms a matrix on the surface of the skin, preventing moisture loss, keeping the skin hydrated and plump for longer. 

Obagi Hydrate
Obagi Hydrate® 

Step 6 – Protect

No Summer skincare routine would be complete without an SPF. Obagi’s Sun Shield MatteTM Broad Spectrum SPF 50 will protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, preventing sun damage and pigmentation formation. This luxury, non-greasy formula should be applied last, so that when the UV rays make contact, the SPF will get to work protecting your skin. Remember, apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before sun exposure and keep topped up throughout the day to maximise protection!

SUN SHIELD MATTE SPF50
Obagi’s Sun Shield MatteTM Broad Spectrum SPF 50

All of these products come together to form the Pure Obagi Antioxidant Kit. The specially selected ingredients and products make this kit perfect for ageing skin. You can be sure that the high content of antioxidants and SPF will keep your skin protected from sun damage and environmental toxins this Summer.

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Who Is Suzan Obagi?

Dr Suzan Obagi

Dr Suzan Obagi is a world renowned skincare leader, and a medical consultant at Obagi. Alongside this she is also the director of the UPMC Cosmetic Surgery & Skin Health Center, President of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and an associate professor of dermatology at the University of Pittsburgh. Her extensive knowledge and contributions to the dermatology industry has seen her awarded with great titles such as one of New York Times Style Magazine’s Top Cosmetic Surgeons in the US.

With great experience and a thriving reputation in the skincare and cosmetic industry Dr Suzan Obagi knows a thing or two about ingredients, which is why she designed the SUZANOBAGIMD™ product line. Her line of skincare products have been expertly formulated to combat a wide range of skincare concerns, so we can all achieve, more radiant, youthful and healthier looking skin.

The SUZANOBAGIMD™ range is ideal for reducing sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, rough skin texture, lacklustre skin, breakouts, excess oil production and sensitive skin. The 4 products in the SUZANOBAGIMD™ line blend seamlessly with the Obagi Systems, allowing you to pick and choose your favourite products, all centered around powerful ingredients.

SUZANOBAGIMD™ Balancing Toner

The SUZANOBAGIMD Balancing Toner is one of a skin, it works to restore the skin’s natural pH, whilst also containing a powerful blend of antioxidants to keep your skin protected against free radical damage.

This toner has been formulated with witch hazel to minimise pores and reduce oil production, leaving you with a clear, hydrated and balanced complexion.

SUZANOBAGIMD Balancing Toner
SUZANOBAGIMD™ Balancing Toner

SUZANOBAGIMD™ Cleansing Wipes

These super handy cleansing wipes offer an on-the-go solution to cleanse skin. Each pack contains 25 witch hazel, aloe vera and antioxidant enriched wipes which will remove impurities, excess oil, and environmental pollutants from the skin.

Aloe vera will help to moisturise the skin and reduce inflammation, witch hazel will effectively reduce excess sebum and the fusion of antioxidants will protect the skin from free radical damage. These wipes are suitable for all skin types.

SUZANOBAGIMD™ Cleansing Wipes
SUZANOBAGIMD™ Cleansing Wipes

SUZANOBAGIMD™ Intensive Daily Repair

Reduce the visible signs of ageing and hydrate the skin with the SUZANOBAGIMD Intensive Daily Repair lotion. This medical grade skincare product contains hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant which will boost the skin’s moisture levels. This product will also exfoliate rough skin texture and combat signs of ageing by smoothing fine lines and wrinkles and diminishing pigmentation – it’s an anti-ageing wonder product!

SUZANOBAGIMD Intensive Daily Repair (IDR)
SUZANOBAGIMD™ Intensive Daily Repair

SUZANOBAGIMD™ Revitance® Skin Rejuvenating Complex

Packed with vitamin A, this retinol derived  product is sure to make a great impact on fine lines and wrinkles, smoothing the complexion for a more youthful appearance. This product contains retinaldehyde, a derivative of retinol, meaning that it is much more gentle on the skin and gets to work refining lines and wrinkles without causing irritation – making it the perfect vitamin A product for retinol newbies.

Dr Suzan Obagi is arguably the founder of one of the most effective anti-ageing skincare brands around today. If you’ve got ageing or acne prone skin, give the SUZANOBAGIMD™ range a go, you won’t regret it!

SUZANOBAGIMD Retivance® Skin Rejuvenating Complex
SUZANOBAGIMD™ Revitance® Skin Rejuvenating Complex