Will Obagi Nu Derm Work Well for Idian Skin? (photo)

Question

hello doc! i was on obagi for 3 weeks n took a gap for 2 weeks and now back, wondering if it works well for indians? i am on the 4th day now.. not bad peeling but there is some kind of peeling. my skin is sensitive n i am using tretin 0.05, should i start from 0.025? i am worried as the last time i used i had white spot which appeared in my 1st week, n my derm said it will become alright. and my skin would become that fair. i am reasonably fair. i am confused doc, wondering if i should continue

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

I usually recommend Obagi creams or Melarase creams for hyperpigmentation associated with melasma.  Both creams work well with Indian or South Asian skin. Raffy Karamanoukian MD FACSLos Angeles

Roy Kim, MD · Answer

Dear artiani-

	 

	Yes, the Obagi Nu-Derm skin care system will work in Indian, or South Asian patients.  The main variable in adjusting your skin care system is how often you're using the Retin-A, and what the strength is.  You can use Retin-A every other day, or every day, and you can ask your doctor about altering the strength.

	 

	Of course, since Retin-A is a prescription medicine, talk to your doctor about any changes you want to make.

	 

	It typically takes takes 1-2 months to see some results, with 3-6 months of use to see maximal results.  The fact that you're seeing some changes after just 4 days is probably a great sign that your skin is responding well. 
	
	I wish you the best in your skin transformation!

	 

	Sincerely,

	Roy Kim, MD

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

I recommend either the Obagi NuDerm or Melarse creams for East Asians. However, the Melarase is gentler on the skin and given more lasting effects. Melarase AM and Melarase PM are used in the morning and evening respectively.

Niketa Sonavane, MD, MBBS · Answer

Hello Artiani,

	Indian skin does not tolerate Retin A 0.05% well. The white spot that you developed may have been post inflammatory hypo pigmentation seen mostly in fair skinned north Indians. It is difficult to ascertain without an examination though.

	The Obagi Nuderm System needs some modifications when used in Indians and other coloured skin individuals. A Tretinoin microsphere gel in 0.025% may be used. Sometimes Adapalene may be required instead of Tretinoin in individuals with sensitive skin. Also to keep the inflammation down, mild steroid cream may be suggested. This helps in preventing the post inflammatory dyspigmentation.

	The 'V' shaped pigmentation that you have is an anatomical 'Pigmentary Demarcation Line'. These are known to be fairly resistant to treatment.

	 

	Keep looking Beautiful,

	Dr Niketa Sonavane.

Steven Swengel, MD · Answer

Be careful with Obagi Nu Derm on your skin.  Indian and middle eastern skin tones can develop a paradoxical darkening, particularly when you develope a lot of peeling and redness with Obagi.  In your first picture you appear to be a little atopic as is evident around the eyes.  This will make you very susceptible to getting a more aggressive reaction.  Take it slow and easy.  Also consider switching to the Obagi CRx System as this is a gentler system to lighten skin tones and even has products for those with dry skin.

Will Obagi Nu Derm Work Well for Idian Skin? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Modify Obagi Nuderm System in Indian Skin!

Answer: Modify Obagi Nuderm System in Indian Skin!

Answer: Obagi for Indian skin

Answer: Obagi for Indian skin

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Obagi Nu-Derm

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Will Obagi Nu Derm Work Well for Idian Skin? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Modify Obagi Nuderm System in Indian Skin!

Answer: Modify Obagi Nuderm System in Indian Skin!

Answer: Obagi for Indian skin

Answer: Obagi for Indian skin

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Obagi Nu-Derm

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.