Collection: Obagi Systems

It depends on your primary skin concern. Nu-Derm is best for pigmentation, melasma, uneven skin tone, and general skin rejuvenation. CLENZIderm is designed specifically for acne-prone skin — persistent breakouts, congestion, and oily skin. Obagi-C clinically reviewed is ideal if you want potent antioxidant brightening without a full transformation protocol. ELASTIderm targets loss of firmness and elasticity, particularly around the eyes and neck. If you have multiple concerns, a consultation is the fastest way to determine the right starting point — we often combine elements from different systems into a personalised protocol.

The active transformation phase typically lasts 12–18 weeks, depending on the system and your skin's response. Nu-Derm protocols generally run 12–18 weeks before transitioning to maintenance. CLENZIderm usually shows significant improvement within 8–12 weeks. During the transformation phase, your skin undergoes controlled cell turnover — expect some temporary redness, dryness, and peeling in the early weeks. This is normal and a sign the system is working. After the transformation phase, you'll move to a simplified maintenance protocol to preserve your results long-term.

You can — and certain standalone Obagi products like the Professional-C Serum and ELASTIderm Eye Cream work well on their own. However, the systems are designed so that each product enhances the effectiveness of the others. Using the full Nu-Derm system, for example, delivers significantly better results for pigmentation than using just one or two products from the range. You can browse the individual Nu-Derm products if you need to replenish specific steps. If budget is a concern, we can prioritise the most impactful products in a consultation and build up to the full system over time.

Some products within the systems are prescription-only — particularly Advanced-Protocol Retinoid (used in Nu-Derm and other protocols) and prescription depigmenting agent at higher concentrations. The core system products (cleansers, toners, moisturisers, sunscreens) are available over the counter. However, the advanced-protocol actives are what make Obagi systems so effective compared to high-street alternatives. As a prescribing clinic, we can assess your suitability for prescription products during a free written skin assessment and issue prescriptions where appropriate.

Rx products contain advanced-protocol ingredients (such as Advanced-Protocol Retinoid or higher-concentration prescription depigmenting agent) and require a clinician consultation before purchase. They deliver the strongest results and are recommended for patients with moderate to severe concerns. Fx products are the non-prescription alternatives — they use cosmeceutical-grade actives like retinol, arbutin, and lower-concentration vitamin C. Fx products are effective but work more gradually. In many cases, we start patients on Rx-strength products during the transformation phase and transition to Fx for long-term maintenance.