What is Obagi CLENZIderm M.D.® and how does it work?

Into researching your skincare before you purchase? You’re our kind of person! We are on a mission to share educational, unbiased articles about the products we offer here at Face Dr, so if you’re interested in the Obagi Medical range, and specifically curious about what the Obagi CLENZIderm M.D.® system could do for you, we’re getting into the nitty gritty of it all right here.

We know how mind-boggling it can be to find the ‘perfect’ skincare routine for you, but you’re in the right place if you’re looking for more information on this popular acne-busting product range, such as Obagi CLENZIderm M.D.® reviews, information on salicylic acid, how to buy the CLENZIderm M.D.® system in the UK, and much more.

Notepads at the ready… this is your guide to the Obagi CLENZIderm M.D.® system and the products and ingredients that make it so effective.

If you’re thinking ‘You had me at acne-busting!’ and you want to skip straight ahead to book a free consultation with a Face Dr Skin Expert, tap the button below.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this article:

• What is the CLENZIderm M.D.® Acne Therapeutic System?
• What products are in the CLENZIderm M.D.® range?What’s the benefit of the Acne Therapeutic System vs individual products?
• What order do I use the products in?
• What is Salicylic Acid and why is it in the CLENZIderm M.D.® range?
• What is Benzoyl Peroxide and why is it in the CLENZIderm M.D.® range
• Who would benefit most from CLENZIderm M.D.®?
• How effective is the Acne Therapeutic System likely to be for me?
• Are there any side effects I should know about?
• How much does the CLENZIderm M.D.® Acne Therapeutic System cost?
• Anything else I should know?
• Can my Skin Expert prescribe CLENZIderm M.D.®?
• How do I buy CLENZIderm M.D.® in the UK?
• Summary: Should I try CLENZIderm M.D.®?

What is the CLENZIderm M.D.® Acne Therapeutic System?

 Our Skin Experts regularly recommend the Obagi Medical range for its incredibly effective products treating a number of skin issues, and one that’s a favourite for those suffering from acne is Obagi's CLENZIderm M.D.® Acne Therapeutic System.

This 3-step treatment was formulated for acne-prone skin to help treat current acne and prevent future breakouts. With clinically proven ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, this collection of products is specifically formulated to target P. acnes, the bacteria that causes acne, which sits deep in the pores.

With daily use, it can penetrate deep into the skin to reach bacteria in the pores, stop acne in its tracks, and promote a healthy, clear complexion. The system has been proven effective in treating mild to moderate acne. It is also designed to prevent future acne forming, and reduce acne scarring, open pores and oily skin.

What products are in the CLENZIderm M.D.® range?

Unlike other collections in the Obagi Medical range, the CLENZIderm M.D.® range is made up of only 3 products, making it easier to maintain long term:

Obagi CLENZIderm M.D.® Daily Care Foaming Cleanser

This lightweight cleanser is suitable for normal to oily skin types, and contains 2% salicylic acid to help unclog pores and remove dead skin and impurities. It is designed to help control acne breakouts, minimise whiteheads and blackheads, remove the dead skin cells that cause them, and encourage skin cell turnover for a clearer complexion. Its cooling menthol sensation leaves skin feeling refreshed after use, making it a firm customer favourite.

Obagi CLENZIderm M.D.® Pore Therapy

A refreshing, pore-refining toner that is also formulated with 2% salicylic acid to help rid pores of dead skin and bacteria, and camomile to soothe irritated skin. This is an essential component of the skincare routine as it preps skin for the final step.

Obagi CLENZIderm M.D.® Therapeutic Lotion

The moisturising element of the system, and final step, is a lightweight lotion formulated with 5% benzoyl peroxide (BPO) to assist in the clearing of acne. Its light texture helps prevent clogged pores, and the addition of squalane deeply nourishes skin to prevent dryness.

What’s the benefit of the Acne Therapeutic System vs individual products?

If you choose to work with one of our Skin Experts and obtain a prescription through Face Dr, you will have the option to purchase either an individual product from the CLENZIderm M.D.® range (above) or the whole 3-piece set if your Skin Expert recommends this.

While individual products may offer certain benefits, applying the full Acne Therapeutic System will often be your best option if you want to see truly transformational results. Each product is designed to penetrate deep into pores and remove bacteria to treat mild to moderate acne and prevent future breakouts, but all three products together are designed to work synergistically to provide the most effective results.

What order do I use the products in?

If you are using the CLENZIderm M.D.® Acne Therapeutic System, it’s best to follow these steps for your morning and evening skincare routines:

Step 1 - Cleanse

CLENZIderm M.D.® Daily Care Foaming Cleanser - Apply a pea-sized amount of cleanser and massage over your whole face to remove any makeup you may be wearing, and any impurities. Rinse and pat dry.

Step 2 - Tone

CLENZIderm M.D.® Pore Therapy - After cleansing, apply 2 to 3 pumps to a cotton ball and use this to cover the entire area affected by acne with a thin layer 1 to 3 times daily as directed by your Face Dr Skin Expert. Leave to dry into the skin.

Step 3 - Lotion

CLENZIderm M.D.® Therapeutic Lotion - After cleansing and applying Pore Therapy, wait until your face is dry and apply a thin layer 1 to 3 times daily.

This order of products is designed to offer the best results, but your Skin Expert may customise your routine to suit your specific concerns.

What is Salicylic Acid and why is it in the CLENZIderm M.D.® range?

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that is well-known for exfoliating skin and clearing pores, making it a great ingredient in acne products. Both the CLENZIderm M.D.® Foaming Cleanser and Pore Therapy include 2% salicylic acid as the active ingredient in their formulations to reduce sebum levels on the surface of the skin and unclog pores.

What is Benzoyl Peroxide and why is it in the CLENZIderm M.D.® range?

Benzoyl peroxide is another well-known ingredient for tackling troublesome acne. It does this by penetrating deep into the pores where acne begins, and removing the bacteria and dead skin cells that clog pores. It’s highly effective, which is why it’s included in our article; Our top 7 skincare ingredients to treat acne. CLENZIderm M.D.® Therapeutic Lotion contains 5% benzoyl peroxide as the active ingredient in its formulation.

Who would benefit most from CLENZIderm M.D.®?

As you have probably already guessed, those with mild to moderate acne stand to gain the most from using the CLENZIderm M.D.® Acne Therapeutic System or any of the individual products associated with it. Acne vulgaris affects around 95% of people aged 11-30, so if you are still searching for the right product, you’re not alone. Speak to one of our Skin Experts to learn whether or not this system could benefit you.

How effective is the Acne Therapeutic System likely to be for me?

We know looking for new skincare products can feel like a risk, and if you suffer from acne in particular, you may have been on a conveyor belt of products in search of that miracle cure, which can be emotionally draining.

We pride ourselves on providing only the most transparent and honest advice about all the products available at Face Dr, so our Skin Experts will speak with you at length in a free video consultation and learn everything about your skin and what you need from your skincare routine.

We are very much aligned with Obagi’s brand belief that skincare should be more than just correcting and preventing issues, but unleashing your skin’s full potential. Their extensive research and 30 years of experience in the industry means you can count on their products being high quality, but you can also see photo examples (here) on the Obagi website of people who have successfully used the CLENZIderm M.D.® Acne Therapeutic System and seen positive results.

While we would typically recommend using the full 3-piece Acne Therapeutic System, if you are looking to try only one product it may be worth noting that CLENZIderm M.D.® Pore Therapy is the highest rated individual product in the system, with an overall 4.6* out of 5, and thirty 5* reviews on the Obagi website.

Are there any side effects I should know about?

As with any prescription skincare product, side effects can happen, the most common being drying of the skin which leads to peeling and redness. If your skin becomes too dry while using the products, you may need to start using or increase your use of the CLENZIderm M.D.® Therapeutic Moisturizer to keep skin hydrated and protected during treatment.

Your Skin Expert will discuss your skin type, allergies and sensitivities with you before prescribing products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, to ensure it is the best treatment for you and to advise on the ideal frequency of use to prevent side effects. If your skin becomes excessively dry or starts peeling, reduce your application to once a day or every second day, and speak to your Skin Expert to find out the best solution. If severe irritation occurs, stop using the products straight away and contact your Skin Expert.

How much does the CLENZIderm M.D.® Acne Therapeutic System cost?

The Obagi CLENZIderm M.D.® Acne Therapeutic System costs £146, and is available to purchase after you have had a video consultation or quick chat with one of our Skin Experts.

If you are concerned about investing in a whole skincare range straight away, you can always discuss this with your Skin Expert so they can find an alternative product or routine that will work for you. You can learn more about acne treatment costs in this article; How much does it cost to treat acne properly?

Anything else I should know?

If you start using the CLENZIderm M.D.® Acne Therapeutic System, keep in mind that your skin will be more susceptible to sun damage while using these products, so avoid unnecessary sun exposure, and always apply sunscreen when outside.

Also, due to the excessive drying of the skin that can occur, your Skin Expert will likely advise that you begin with one application daily, and gradually increase to two or three times a day if needed.

Can my Skin Expert prescribe CLENZIderm M.D.®?

At Face Dr we are authorised stockists of prescription-only Obagi Medical products, so our Skin Experts can discuss your needs and, if appropriate, prescribe you the best products for your skin. We begin with a free video consultation to find out more about your skin needs, and draw on our years of experience in the industry to recommend the best combination of products for you.

How do I buy CLENZIderm M.D.® in the UK?

Summary: Should I try CLENZIderm M.D.®?

• Obagi skincare; Everything you need to know
• Our top 7 skincare ingredients to treat acne
• The best in-clinic treatments for acne