Aftercare Guide
Obagi Skincare Aftercare
Obagi is unlike over-the-counter skincare — it's prescription-strength and will cause visible changes to your skin. Here's how to navigate the protocol successfully.
First 24 Hours
The most important window for optimal results
- Start only the products Dr Niru has prescribed, in the order specified
- Apply a pea-sized amount of each product — less is more
- Use SPF 50 daily without exception (skin is highly photosensitive on Obagi)
- Expect some tingling — this is normal
First Week
- Introduce tretinoin slowly — typically every other night for the first 2 weeks
- Use a gentle moisturiser if dryness develops
- Purging is common in weeks 1-4 — this is old congestion coming to the surface, not worsening skin
- Minor flaking and redness is expected and temporary
- Avoid retinol from other brands — don't combine systems
Long-Term Care
- Week 2-4: Adjustment phase — your skin is adapting
- Week 6-8: Visible improvement in tone and texture
- Week 12-18: Significant transformation — pigmentation fading, smoother skin
- Week 18+: Maintenance phase — transition to a lighter routine
- Follow-up appointments at weeks 2, 6, and 12 are included
What to Avoid
- ●Skipping SPF (non-negotiable — sun damage on Obagi skin is severe)
- ●Waxing the treated areas for 2 weeks after starting
- ●Combining with other active treatments without Dr Niru's guidance
- ●Harsh scrubs or exfoliating cleansers
- ●Using more product than prescribed (more ≠ faster results)
- ●Pregnancy — stop all Obagi immediately if you become pregnant and contact Dr Niru
When to Contact Dr Niru
Rare, but important to know. Contact us immediately if you experience:
- ●Severe redness, burning, or peeling that doesn't improve
- ●Allergic reaction: hives, severe itching, swelling
- ●Skin feeling 'angry' or raw — pause and contact Dr Niru
- ●Worsening pigmentation (rare, usually from missed SPF)
Common Questions
My skin is peeling — is this normal?
Yes, especially in weeks 2-6. Tretinoin accelerates skin cell turnover. If peeling is severe, scale back frequency and contact Dr Niru for guidance.
Am I having a reaction or is this 'purging'?
Purging happens in the areas you normally break out. A reaction usually happens in new areas or presents with itching, hives, or severe redness. Message Dr Niru if unsure.
Can I still wear makeup?
Yes, but apply Obagi products first, let them absorb fully, then apply makeup. Use non-comedogenic products.
Can I pause the protocol for a holiday?
Yes. Many patients pause during sun-heavy holidays. Dr Niru will advise how to restart safely when you're back.
Medically reviewed by Dr Niru Azim, BDS · GDC No. 170811 · Last reviewed: April 2026