The Best Time to Start Using Obagi Nu-Derm System

November 14, 2021

Treat Your Sunspots and Discoloration in the Winter

After a summer of fun in the sun, you might notice dark areas of increased pigmentation called melasma, or spots on your skin called sunspots, and wonder what you can do about them. You’ve probably heard about the Obagi Nu-Derm System from your dermatologist or aesthetician because it’s designed for skin challenges exactly like this. The Obagi Nu-Derm System is specially formulated to lighten darkened areas, improve skin texture, soften fine lines and wrinkles, brighten dullness and unevenness, and smooth skin roughness.

Skin Lightening and Brightening with Rx 4% Hydroquinone

One of the active ingredients in the Obagi Nu-Derm System is 4% hydroquinone, a skin-lightening agent that lightens dark spots, including melasma and sunspots. 4% Hydroquinone is an ingredient many dermatologists recommend for hyperpigmentation/discoloration. It works by blocking the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. As melanin production slows, areas of pigmentation lighten, and your skin tone becomes more even.

What a lot of people don’t realize is that many skin-lightening products with hydroquinone don’t contain prescription-strength hydroquinone. That’s where the FDA-approved Obagi Nu-Derm System is different. Other products may call themselves “prescription strength” but they don’t actually provide the concentration of skin-lightening hydroquinone doctors recommend and prescribe. Non-prescription products can only contain up to 2% hydroquinone, while Obagi Nu-Derm System is formulated with 4% hydroquinone for maximum skin lightening.

We Only Sell Nu-Derm Rx (the Prescription Version)

Rx versus Fx? We sell only the Rx line, which is the prescription version. Don’t be fooled when you see a lower price somewhere else, because it’s probably the Fx version. There are also lots of fakes out there from unofficial sellers. We are an authorized retailer so you know you are getting the genuine Obagi Rx product when you order from us.

Use the Obagi Nu-Derm System during the Cooler Months

If you’re ready to lighten dark spots, the best time to start the Obagi Nu-Derm System is during the late fall or winter. Since hydroquinone blocks melanin production, it increases sun sensitivity. During the summer, you expose your skin to more direct sunlight, and the risk of skin sensitivity is higher. So, start the Obagi Nu-Derm System in the cooler months, when there is less sun (here’s an interesting discussion on UV in the winter). Nu-Derm is considered a “corrective line”, and your dermatologist or esthetician will probably have you switch to a maintenance regimen after 6 months or so. By that time, pigmented areas will be lighter, and you’ll have a more even skin tone. Just in time for summer fun again!

A Corrective System: How it works

How does the system improve skin tone and texture? The Obagi Nu-Derm System works in phases. During the first 6 weeks, the system removes dead skin cells on the surface of your skin that cause your skin to feel rough and uneven. As you continue the treatment, skin cells regenerate, and your skin has a more even distribution of melanin. By the 13th week, your skin will feel smoother, more youthful, and you’ll have a more even skin tone, as areas of pigmentation lighten. With consistent use, you’ll continue to see improvements in skin tone and texture. After 18 weeks, you’re ready for maintenance mode. At this point, the hard work is done, but the system can help you maintain the results.

Precautions

Although 4% hydroquinone is deemed safe and the Nu-Derm system is FDA approved, avoid using it during pregnancy or nursing. Each system includes a sunscreen, which is an essential aspect of hydroquinone therapy because even minimal sunlight exposure sustains melanocytic activity.

The Bottom Line

Late Fall / Winter is the best time for Nu-Derm

The Obagi Nu-Derm System provides prescription treatment for sunspots, melasma, and discoloration. Depending on your skin type, you can choose a system that best meets your skincare needs. Obagi offers a system for normal to oily and normal to dry skin. Both will help you get smoother skin with a more even skin tone, and you’ll love the way your skin looks and feels! Now is the perfect time of year to get started.