Skin Reborn
Gorgeous, youthful skin from the inside out
By KRISTINE MOSQUEDA-KELLY

Renowned dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi, researcher and innovator who developed skin health restoration and facial rejuvenation techniques to restore skin to its original health and beauty.

The Obagi Nu-Derm system is a comprehensive regimen designed to correct skin problems such as pigmentation.

Faster is better. Right? Wrong. Especially when it comes to skincare.

Even in an age where quick fixes and instant results are becoming the norm, as demonstrated by the popularity of such shows as Extreme Makeover and The Swan, the truth is there are no short cuts to a beautiful and healthy skin.

Leading Beverly Hills dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi says achieving gorgeous skin requires a great deal of work and time, especially if you do it the right way.

Most products that promise overnight results, Dr. Obagi points out, do nothing but tackle the problem at a superficial level. Most often than not, patients are frustrated by its limited and short-lived results. “[They] moisturize, cover, and give the false sensation that the skin feels better. They do not help improve skin texture, [treat] medical problems, and maintain the health of the skin,” the dermatologist tells Go4Women.

We all hope to keep that baby skin for as long as we can, but unfortunately as we age, and because of factors like prolonged and unprotected sun exposure, pollution, stress, and disease, our skin cells’ performance deteriorates, resulting in dull, tired and old-looking skin.

Total approach to beautiful, healthy skin
Dr. Obagi, who pioneered the groundbreaking concept of skin health restoration by correcting skin functions, provides a total and intensive approach to reverse the signs of skin aging, treat a variety of skin problems, and revive the skin’s healthy and youthful look from the inside out.

The Obagi Nu-Derm skin health restoration system hinges on two key points: correction, which improves the epidermis or skin surface; and stimulation, where the dermis of deeper layer of the skin is enhanced through the production of more collagen and elastin for water retention.

When treating and correcting skin conditions like acne, wrinkles, scars, sun-damage, pre-cancerous lesions and uneven pigmentation, Obagi starts with the root of the problem (medical problem) and goes from within to the skin’s outer surface.

The prescription-based Nu-Derm cream program, which is customized to match a person’s skin type, involves four steps. First, it prepares the skin so that it becomes more receptive to the correction step, which repairs the damage to the surface of the skin. The third step stimulates to repair the damage to the deeper layers of the skin and restore its elasticity. The last protects to prevent further damage from the sun’s damaging rays and protect the eye area as well.

The whole process takes an average of three to five months, but while the wait time is lengthier, the results are remarkable and long-term.

The Nu-Derm system, coupled with other procedures like the Obagi Blue Peel, have been proven effective to treat skin conditions usually suffered by Asians such as pigmentation, acne, large pores and excessive skin oiliness. “All these are treatable and easily managed,” he says.

“Certain conditions such as eye bags, which requires surgery, and stretch marks can also be addressed through skin stimulation, followed by laser treatment or the Obagi Blue Peel.

Co-invented by Dr. Obagi, the Blue Peel is considered by many as the most effective and safest chemical peel to correct skin problems that may not respond to cream.

Another option is the Medium-depth TCA (trichloroacetic acid), also designed by Obagi, which is recommended for deeper wrinkles, scars or extremely loose skin.

For those who want quicker and drastic results, the Obagi Clinic on Wilshire Boulevard in the heart of posh Beverly Hills, offers laser treatment and plastic surgery.

When going through major procedures like cosmetic surgery, Obagi says it is essential to prepare and strengthen the skin to build its tolerance for the procedure and promote proper healing. “A cosmetic procedure is only one part of the treatment. Equally important are skin activation, stimulation and correction using a medical cream program, which go hand in hand with the surgery itself.”

Start prevention early
Because skin problems start at a young age, Dr. Obagi says it is very important to develop skin care awareness at an early stage. “Children and adolescents should pay attention to skin cleanliness and sun protection. They should start early treatment of acne to prevent scars, and avoid early excessive usage of cosmetics that weakens the skin and heavy makeup, which clog the pores.”

Among the steps to take to keep your skin healthy, the dermatologist advises people, young and old, to guard their skin from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays by using sunscreen protection, drink plenty of water, avoid excessive caffeine, and keep a nutritious diet rich in vitamins, anti-oxidants and protein.

“It is always easier, cheaper and better to keep your skin healthy and not wait until you see a problem that would require more extensive treatment,” Obagi stresses.

“We can prevent acne scars, wrinkles and spots, for example, by following a preventive program of skin stimulation and correction. By following a good preventive program you stay younger looking and delay the need for major procedures. They may not even need it at all,” he adds.

Obagi adds that a patient should be his or her own advocate. “Tell your doctor what your skincare goals are and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t ask your doctor to make you look like someone else. Ask your doctor what is the best and safest approach to make you look better. Most of all, be realistic about what you want,” he advises patients.

A name you can trust
Obagi is a luminary in the field of plastic surgery and dermatology. He is respected by his peers and admired by the community. Thousands of plastic surgeons and dermatologists read his books and take his courses. Many come from all over the U.S. and the world to train with him. Despite his achievements, the self-made man who immigrated to the United States from Syria remains humble, dedicated to his craft, and committed to the community.

The doctor, whose now widely used skin treatment program resulted from his love of treating burn victims, has become a trusted name among Asians, including Filipino Americans. In fact, they form more than half of his patients.

Countless Filipino Americans have benefited from Obagi’s expertise. Where many skin doctors failed to address the unique needs and problems of Filipino skin, Obagi has succeeded. The key, he says, is to tailor the treatment plan according to each patient’s specific situation. “Many procedures are good, but does that procedure work for you? That’s what I always determine before treating a patient,” the doctor says.

On November 20, 2004, Dr. Obagi, whose inspiring story proves that the American Dream can be yours with faith, determination and hard work, will be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by Reflections XVI, an annual event that pays tribute to exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to the community.

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