Obagi Medical - C-Exfoliating Day Lotion

A light day cream that simultaneously hydrates and gently exfoliates, for skin that looks dull and no longer reflects light.

Why it works

Dull skin is usually not a matter of a lack of care, but of a layer of dead skin cells that lingers for too long. These cells do not lie flat; they scatter light, which you perceive as a sallow complexion. Glycolic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid, loosens the bonds between these old cells so they shed naturally. In addition, it contains ascorbyl glucoside, a more stable form of vitamin C that is slowly converted in the skin to help even out the complexion, and sodium hyaluronate to retain moisture, ensuring the exfoliation doesn't leave your skin feeling dry.

The texture is a thin, smooth lotion that absorbs quickly and doesn't feel sticky under makeup.

For whom

For dull, uneven, or somewhat rough skin. Also great for combination to oily skin that wants hydration without a heavy cream. If you have very sensitive or easily reddened skin, it is better to start every other day and build up usage.

How to use it

Once a day, in the morning, after cleansing and toning. Use one or two pea-sized amounts for your entire face and massage in gently. Always follow with a sunscreen with a high protection factor: alpha-hydroxy acids make your skin more sensitive to the sun, even for a week after you stop using them. Without sun protection, you are simply working against the results.

Do not use it in the same application as another acid or retinol. Choose one active product per session.

A word of advice

The biggest pitfall with acids is enthusiasm. People see that their skin looks smoother after ten days, decide that more is better, and start layering with a scrub or a second acid. Two weeks later, I am faced with red, sensitive skin that reacts to everything, and then we lose a month rebuilding that barrier.

So, do less than you feel like doing. Once a day, this product only, and let time do its work. Your skin renews itself in about four weeks, so expect a month before the complexion looks noticeably more even.

Questions about whether this fits your skin, or about how to combine it with the rest of your routine? Feel free to send me a message.