2-4 weeks prior to your skin resurfacing procedure, we recommend starting the following skin care regimen to optimize your results.
Obagi NuDerm System
Pre Procedure Skin Care Regimen
Gentle Cleanser or Foaming Gel
- A mild gel-based cleanser that gently removes impurities, oil, and makeup to leave skin clean and fresh.
- Wash your face with the recommended cleanser, rinse with lukewarm water and gently pat dry. Avoid rubbing your skin with a towel.
Toner
- Adjusts the pH of the skin for increased penetration of the system ingredients.
- Put the Toner on a cotton pad and apply to your entire face. Do not rinse.
Clear
- A topical prescription-level treatment that includes 4% hydroquinone to minimize hyperpigmentation (dark spots/discoloration) of the skin and improve skin tone.
- Measure 1/2 –1 gram and apply evenly to your entire face, avoiding the eyes, extending to the hairline, over the ears and ending with a feathering motion. Note: If you have dark skin, use Clear on your entire face once a day, preferably in the morning, and apply at night only on the darkest areas. Once you achieve satisfying results, use Clear only as needed.
- Discontinue one week prior to your resurfacing procedure.
Exfoderm or Exfoderm Forte
- These are both skin exfoliators. Exfoderm contains a plant acid (3% phytic acid). Exfoderm Forte contains an alpha hydroxyl acid (6% glycolic acid, 4% lactic acid) and is indicated for skin that would benefit from deeper exfoliation. Both products act to remove old skin cells while promote new skin cells for a lighter, brighter complexion.
- Measure 1/2 –1 gram and apply evenly to your entire face, avoiding the eyelid area. Massage until the cream is completely absorbed.
- For morning use only. Use after Clear and before Healthy Skin Protection SPF 35.
Blender
- A topical prescription-level treatment that includes 4% hydroquinone to minimize hyperpigmentation (dark spots/discoloration) of the skin and improve skin tone.
- Measure 1/2 gram of Blender—As directed by your physician, apply Blender and Tretinoin evenly to your entire face. Apply around eye area as directed. Note: Avoid the corners of the lips and creases around the nose.
- For evening use only. Use after Clear and before Tretinoin.
- Discontinue one week prior to your resurfacing procedure.
Tretinoin
- A prescription medication, this product has been scientifically proven to stimulate collagen growth, improve skin texture, and treat acne.
- Apply a thin layer to face, avoiding sensitive areas such as corner of eyes, corner of mouth, and corner of nose.
- For evening use only. Use after Blender.
- Discontinue one week prior to your resurfacing procedure.
Healthy Skin Protection SPF 35
- A sunscreen with 9% micronized zinc oxide and 7.5% octinoxate that help to protect skin from environmental damage. Sunscreen should be re-applied every 2 hours as needed when outdoors.
- Apply in the morning under your makeup. Reapply often while in the sun. Note: Always avoid prolonged direct sun exposure. Remember to practice sun protection daily.
Immediately following your resurfacing procedure, you will use Cetaphil skin cleanser (over the counter; available at most pharmacies) followed by Aquaphor which will be demonstrated at the end of your treatment. This will continue each day until directed by Dr. Batniji to start your post procedure regimen. During this recovery week sun exposure should be avoided.