Obagi Nu-Derm vs. Nu-Derm Fx vs. Obagi-C Rx Systems: What are the differences?

About Obagi

Founded in 1988, Obagi is a complete skincare company designed and tested for every skin type – there really is a solution for everyone. Designed to target a range of concerns including acne, discoloration, and dry and aging skin, Obagi products are inclusive and deliver a combination of powerful ingredients that support every skin tone and type. 

The Obagi skin care system is divided into multiple categories in order to perfect specific skin conditions, helping to discover more radiant skin. Obagi is also the first professional skin care brand to design its clinical research protocols to cover all six Fitzpatrick spectrum skin tones. While some brands only test on a small range of skin tones, Obagi prioritizes inclusivity—which means you can trust that these products will work for your skin.

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What is the Obagi Nu-Derm System?

The Obagi Nu-Derm System, a physician-prescribed skin care system, accelerates the cellular turnover. This skin care routine uses professional-grade lightening ingredients to inhibit melanin production, the substance responsible for controlling pigment in the skin. The result is a more even, radiant skin tone. Nu-Derm also helps improve signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles and rough skin texture. With regular use of this comprehensive skin care system, you'll achieve brighter, smoother and more youthful-looking skin. 

Key ingredient and hero products

The star ingredient of the system is hydroquinone, which blocks the production of tyrosine, the enzyme necessary to make melanin. 

There has been debate about the safety of hydroquinone, and the ingredient is banned in Australia, Japan, and Europe. However, the FDA considers it to be safe and effective and says there’s no evidence that it causes cancer in humans. 

Obagi Nu-Derm Blender and Obagi Nu-Derm Clear, which are part of the Obagi Nu-Derm System, each contain 4% hydroquinone. A prescription is required for those two products.

What is the Obagi Nu-Derm Fx System?

The Obagi Nu-Derm Fx System is clinically proven and formulated to help improve the appearance of dark spots, discoloration, wrinkles, sun damage and other signs of aging. Each product included in this system helps enhance skin brightness and clarity, revealing a more youthful appearance. These formulas also hydrate and nourish dry skin for a softer, smoother texture.

Key ingredient and hero products

Arbutin, an effective skin-brightening agent, is a hydroquinone derivative from the leaves of the bearberry shrub, cranberry, blueberry, some mushrooms and pears The Obagi Nu-Derm Fx System features arbutin-enhanced Clear Fx and Blend Fx.

Both Clear Fx and Blend Fx are skin-brightening creams formulated with 7% arbutin, antioxidants and lactic acid. Clear Fx enhances the appearance of even skin tone, while Blend Fx helps clarify and brighten the skin with a richer, thicker formula for nighttime use.

What is the difference between Nu-derm and Nu-derm FX?

The Obagi Nu-Derm and Obagi Nu-Derm Fx range both work to achieve the same result. The difference between the two are the ingredients used.  

Nu-Derm products, such as Clear and Blender, contain 4% hydroquinone, which is a prescription ingredient. Nu-Derm FX swaps the hydroquinone for arbutin. Arbutin does not require a prescription. Both hydroquinone and arbutin are skin brighteners.   

What is the Obagi-C Rx System?

Obagi-C Rx is an early intervention system specifically formulated for normal to dry skin with 4% hydroquinone to reduce hyperpigmentation, and other key ingredients, such as Vitamin C, to maintain the appearance of younger-looking skin. It is recommended for patients who are seeking a more simplified system with fewer steps.

Key ingredients and hero products

Obagi-C Rx Systems promote skin regeneration from the inside out using a formulation of prescription-strength hydroquinone, 4%, which reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation, combined with 10% ascorbic acid, a powerful anti-oxidant known to support and defend the skin against future damage.

Both RX C-Clarifying Serum and RX C-Therapy Night Cream contain 4% hydroquinone and Vitamin C to help rejuvenate your skin.

What is the difference between Nu-derm and Obagi-C Rx?

Obagi Nu-Derm System accelerates cellular turnover for skin with moderate to severe sun damage. Obagi-C Rx System is for brighter, Photolumines skin with mild to moderate sun damage. The main difference between the two are the ingredients used.  

In addition to prescription-strength hydroquinone, the Obagi-C Rx system also contains L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) to help defend against free radicals and address the appearance of aging skin.

• The difference between hero products

| Obagi Nu-Derm Clear

Skin aging is a natural process, but daily sun exposure can contribute to premature aging. Sun-damaged skin appears dull, with older, damaged cells accumulating due to slower skin cell turnover. Effective prescription 4% hydroquinone that helps correct hyperpigmentation, such as dark spots, sun spots, age spots, melasma, and other types of discoloration, for a healthier-looking, more even skin tone.

Active Ingredient:

4% Hydroquinone

| Obagi Nu-Derm Clear Fx

Nu-Derm Clear Fx is a hydroquinone free skin-brightening cream formulated with vitamins, antioxidants and natural extracts to help address hyperpigmentation such as melasma, dark spots and even the ruddy aftermath of breakouts while clarifying and evening your overall appearance. 

Active Ingredient: 

7% Arbutin

Key Ingredients: 

Vitamin C

Vitamin E

| Obagi-C Rx C-Clarifying Serum

The first and only serum to provide the skin-lightening benefits of hydroquinone with the rejuvenating and potent antioxidant properties of vitamin C, Obagi-C Rx C-Clarifying Serum penetrates deep into the skin to prevent cells from producing pigment and promote more even skin tone. Ideal for normal to dry skin, don't worry if you feel a tingling sensation?that means it's working!

Active Ingredient: 

4% Hydroquinone

Key Ingredient: 

10% L-ascorbic Acid

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