It restores the skin from the ravages of time, and corrects hyperpigmentation,
photoaging and acne. This is a 5 step system that patients perform in their own
home, with continued progress monitoring by Dr. Sapra and his staff.

There are 3 cell types that are targeted by the obagi line, these are the
keratinocytes, melanocytes and fibroblasts. The keratinocytes are located at the
surface of the skin. Keracinocytes migrate upwards through the skin surface,
eventually dying and being shed away. This maturation cycle takes
approximately 40 days. The cycle tends to slows down in aging skin, creating a
rough looking skin surface. Obagi promotes the stimulation of this natural
exfoliation, restoring a smooth freshness. It will also help keep this cycle at a
regular 6 weeks.

Melanocytes are the cells that contain the pigment known as melanin. This is
what determines the colour of our skin. These cells are also located in the
epidermis, amid the keratinocytes. Sun exposure, hormones, and inflamation
can cause an overproduction of melanin in the cells. This gives the appearance
of darker areas or spots. Obagi will correct the pigmentation caused by the
overproduction of melanin in the cells.

Fibroblasts are located deeper in the skin, known as the dermis layer. These
support structures are made up of collagen and elastin. Over time the fibroblasts
begin to break down, causing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Obagi
helps to preserve the collagen and elastin in the fibroblasts making the skin
appear firmer with less wrinkling or fine lines. The blood circulation in the
surrounding tissues will also improve, giving the skin an fresh healthy glow.

The 5 step system is prepare, correct, stimulate, protect and control. The first
step in this regimen is to clean the skin, and tone the skin. The next step is the
corrective element of the system. A hydroquinone based product is used to
bleach the skin, while an exfoliating cream will cause the skin to flake and peel.
This will correct the hyperpigmented, and uneven areas of skin tone. The next
step involves the use of additional hydroquinone, and prescription Retin A. This
stimulates the keratinocytes and fibroblasts, to produce new cells, collagen and
elastin; it also regulates the melanocytes and the production of melanin. The
protective aspect of the system involves the use of a good suncreen. This
protects the skin while the Obagi system is being used, it also protects against
further sun damage. It is very important that all patients continue to use a
sunscreen to avoid a recurrence. Patients who are experiencing a lot of dryness
and itchiness, can use a moisturizing facial and or eye cream to help control
this. It is recommended to be used a sparingly, and only if the patient is feeling
very irritated. Moisturizers can slow down the effect that the Obagi line will have,
and delay the result

After the first week to 10 days patients will notice a dryness to the skin. The
skin will also begin to flake and peel. The most peeling will take place between 1
and a half to 2 and a half weeks. The facial area will have redness, this is also a
normal, and very expected reaction. Patients should not be alarmed by the
peeling or redness, however, patients should not have any cracking. If this does
occur, the patient should contact the Obagi consultant, as the treatment can be
adjusted. The Obagi skin care system speeds up the cell regeneration process,
from the normal 40 days, to 20 days. This is why patients will notice more
peeling, as the cells are being shed faster to achieve an improved appearance.
Circulation will improve, and the skin will regain its natural moisture.

The Obagi Nu-Derm line is not for everyone, but for some it’s everything. A
consultation is required with Dr. Sapra before starting this or any program.










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