Friday, April 19, 2013

Obagi Treatments for Melasma

Dark patches of skin on the forehead, cheeks, nose and other parts of the body can be the result of melasma. Wearing sunscreen and shielding skin from the sun are essential for all skin types and can help prevent melasma from appearing or reappearing after it has been treated. More common in women than in men, melasma is common during pregnancy, and is often called, "the pregnancy mask." Individuals of Indian, Asian, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Hispanic and African descent are at a higher risk of having melasma. Obagi Medical Products is a California-based manufacturer of skin care products for treating skin conditions such as melasma. Does this Spark an idea?

Nu-Derm Cleanser

Using a gentle, foaming cleanser is the first step the Obagi Nu-Derm System. For normal to dry skin types, the Gentle Cleanser is suitable. For normal to oily skin types, the Foaming Gel is appropriate. Both cleanse the skin of dirt and makeup without interfering with the natural lipid barrier of the skin. The cleanser should be used morning and evening.

Nu-Derm Toner

Toners work to remove the last traces of makeup and go a little further to cleanse the pores of any makeup or dirt left behind. Toners also work to balance the pH of the skin. This will create a clean, even surface on the skin and prepare it for other products that will follow. The toner can be used both morning and evening.

Obagi Clear

Obagi Clear contains 4 percent hydroquinone and is used to treat melasma. Hydroquinone at the 4 percent level should be prescribed by a skin care professional and patients should be monitored every four to six weeks after starting hydroquinone. Hydroquinone is proven to lighten hyperpigmented areas of the skin. It is essential to wear sunscreen and stay out of the sun during treatment. Some patients develop more pigmented spots when using hydroquinone.

Exfoderm

Exfoderm is the final step in the Obagi Nu-Derm System. Exfoderm is recommended for normal skin and Exfoderm Forte is recommended for normal to oily skin. Exfoderm contains glycolic acid, a type of alpha hydroxy acid that is known for preventing fine lines and brightening the skin. Alpha hydroxy acids work to clean deep inside the pores. Lactic acid is also a part of the Exfoderm formulation. Lactic acid helps slough off dead skin cells while preventing acne and skin irritation.

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