AMW Reviews: Obagi CLENZIderm

Hey there!  How's Christmas?  Mine went out okay, minus the fact that Mr. AMW got a fever on Christmas Eve!!!  I'm glad he got better but boy was that a Grinch?  

Anyways...minus the sudden fever, everything turned out well, we celebrated a quiet Christmas staying at home with the family!  

Today, I will be reviewing a skincare regimen you probably wouldn't think you'll find in my blog...ever!  The Obagi Clenziderm Regimen....

Don't worry, I know my skin, my skin is darn sensitive and I can't use any skincare regimen that involves peeling!  Oh goodness, just the thought of it made me cringe!

I will be reviewing  THE OBAGI Clenziderm that has been used by many who suffers from acne, this time, we have to thank Mr. AMW for sharing his experience to us!  A quick flashback, Mr. AMW has the best looking skin ever during highschool, funny how he went through teenage years with gorgeous looking skin then "BAM!" suffered acne right when he reached adulthood!  It started with food allergies then the acne scars and marks just won't go away!  

When I heard from fellow beauty blogger Sophie on how effective Obagi Clenziderm is, I immediately advised Mr. AMW to try this set and see if it works on him!

The Obagi Clenziderm includes the following ---

CLENZIderm M.D. Daily Care Foaming Cleanser

(2% Salicylic Acid) 

This gentle foaming salicylic acid cleanser removes dirt and acne-­causing excess oil, leaving the skin clean and   refreshed.

CLENZIderm M.D. Pore Therapy
(2% Salicylic Acid)

It contains 2% salicylic acid and benzalkonium chloride that effectively unclogs, clears dead  skin cells and prepares pores to deeply absorb the Serum Gel.

CLENZIderm Serum Gel

Potent gel turns to liquid serum on contact. Delivers liquified benzoyl peroxide deep within your pores where acne starts. Quickly clears acne and prevents new breakouts from occurring.

Obagi Clenziderm says ---

The Obagi CLENZIderm M.D. System is the only prescription-strength acne treatment that contains a patented, solubilized form of 5% benzoyl peroxide (BPO) to penetrate deep into the skin and treat acne where it starts.

The CLENZIderm M.D. System products are specially formulated to work together to provide optimal results. Ask your skin care specialist today which CLENZIderm M.D. products are right for you.

Ingredients: 

of Foaming Cleanser

of Pore Therapy

of Serum Gel

Benzyl Benzoate, BHT, Cyclomethicone, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Ehtylhexyl Isononanoate, Ethyoxydiglycol, Silica.

Mr. AMW says ---

Pros

• Each product newly purchased are sealed for freshness.

• Each product has a marked expiration date

• The serum comes with a pump which makes it easier to control the amount dispersed.

• Skin doesn't oil up as much for the whole day.
• Personal opinion of Mr. AMW, the regimen doesn't sting or hurt his skin.
• A little goes a long way, this regimen may last you 2-3  months.
• New pimples does not show up as much as compared to not using Obagi.
• The Obagi Facial Wash has a minty feel which is refreshing to use.
• The Obagi Pore Therapy also has a minty feel and it reduces oil.

Cons

• The serum case probably has problems as it kept on spilling out of the packaging.
• Other people may find this regimen too pricey.  (Personally speaking, if this works for you, then it's worth the investment.)
• The serum may stain your clothing if you're not careful with application.  It can even stain your pillow casing.
• The stinging, the sensitivity of your skin may cause discomfort.
• Some people may go through peeling which may be difficult at the first few weeks.

Overall

Mr. AMW doesn't expect all his pimples or acne marks to be completely gone with this regimen as he understood he need to go through facial treatments (but of course, he's lazy to do so).  The regimen does help some of his pimples disappear at the same time, he does not oil up as much and doesn't grow new pimples as opposed to not using this regimen.

Tips

• Use the daily foaming cleanser with warm water.
• It pays to leave the cleanser at least 20-30 seconds before washing it off.  Be careful not to get the product into the eyes.
• Pore therapy is best used on dry skin with a cotton pad rather than cotton balls.
• People with sensitive skin should do a patch test first before using the products all over the face especially on the serum gel.
• Apply a thin layer of serum gel on your first few usage as this may cause tingling sensation or even sting.
• Wash your hands with soap and water after serum application.
• Be careful as the product may stain your clothing or pillow casing and bed sheets.  Cover them with a used shirt or cloth to prevent stains.
• Use sunblock when you go out under the sun.  Check with your dermatologist to know how high your SPF should be.
• If your acne is sever, do have monthly checks with your dermatologist to have your facial done.

Will he repurchase?
Yes.  I am quite surprised how he religiously use this for the past months.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who suffers severe acne but they have to go have their skin checked by a dermatologist.

Where to purchase and how much?

At Obagi Clinics for Php6,700 (approx $155.00) for the whole set.

Here's a before and after shot of Mr. AMW's skin.  Let's thank him for sharing his before and after shots as he wants to show everyone if the product is effective or not.  Please bear in mind that each individual reacts differently on the same products.

Left photo taken on September 2011, right photo taken on December 2011.  The treatment was 3 months.  As seen on photo, the scars and acne marks are still there but some have lightened up especially on the bottom part.

Keep in mind that Mr. AMW's skin is used to having salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide slathered all over his face, he does not feel any pain nor stinging sensation during treatment.

I feel for Mr. AMW as these are actually cause of a bad allergy and it became long term effect on him.  Mrs. AMW won't stop searching for the right product for him! :)

Have you tried OBAGI CLENZIderm?
Any acne skin regimen that you think would work for guys?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

(Product was provided for review.  The review is 100% Mr. AMW's.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

AMW Reviews: Obagi-C C-Sunguard SPF30

The week flew by pretty quickly because I've been busy going in and out of the house!  *giggles*  That made me feel like teenager all over again!  *wahahaha*

Let's get back to the reason for this report!  I will be reviewing *drumroll* my most expensive sunblock to date!  Going out of the country is the best time to test products and one product I brought along is the Obagi-C C-Sunguard SPF30.  It was the ultimate test as I know when I'm out of the country, I expose myself to the environment and under the sun!  Who would like to bring an umbrella during travel?  Not this girl!!!

When I attended the House of Obagi Event more than a month ago, all the attendees were given an Obagi-C C-Sungard SPF30 sunblock which works for any skin type!  I didn't use this right away as I am saving this for the harshest sun exposure!

Obagi-C C-Sunguard SPF30 says ---

C-Sunguard SPF 30 is formulated with ultra-sheer Z-Cote, an effective barrier that provides a superior measure of sun protection from UVB damage and against long-UVA rays linked to premature skin aging.  Regular application of C-Sunguard SPF30 can help protect your Photolumines Skin from future sun damage.

Ingredients: butylparaben, cetearyl alcohol, citric acid, C13-14 isoparaffin, diethanolamine cetyle phospate, disodium edetate, ethylparaben, isobutylparaben, isopropyl palmitate, laureth-7, methylparaben, octyl stearate, phenoxyethanol, polyacrylamide, polyether-1, polysorbate 60, propylparaben, purified water, sodium hydroxide, triethoxycaprylysilane.

AMW says ---

Pros

• Simple squeeze type packaging makes it easy to control the amount of product you want to come out.

• Sealed upon purchase for freshness.

• Gets absorbed into the skin easily.
• No waiting time, finishes matte immediately!
• Doesn't feel oily or sticky in the middle of the day.
• No allergic reactions occur.
• No weird scent.
• The protection on UVA and UVB isn't seen by naked eyes but I did not turn dark in the duration of the whole trip.
• Recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation.

Cons

• Obviously, the price!  There are so many inexpensive sunblock brands out there!

Overall

As most sunblock lotions or creams, you cannot really see the quick effect of it as we cannot see UVA and UVB with our naked eyes.  The only basis for us to know if a sunblock works is on its physical manifestation which is getting dark or not!  

For the Obagi-C C-Sunguard SPF30 sunblock, the very positive thing that I've seen in this is the fact it finishes matte and I don't feel like I have anything on my skin for the rest of the day.  I was under EXTREME humidity and directly under the sun's harsh rays for the whole day but I went back to Manila with the same skin color!  Mind you, if I may have to add, I only applied this sunblock in the morning before I leave the hotel.  I did bring the sunblock inside my bag but I just didn't have time for re-application and so far, it still works! (Keep in mind that I do not perpire A LOT!)

Tips

• Apply generously and evenly 15 minutes before sun exposure.
• Re-apply as needed especially if you perspire a lot or after swimming.
• Always store the product in cool, dry place.
• If you are sensitive to certain ingredients, read labels and do a patch test prior to using this all over your face and body.
• Keep out of eyes, rinse with water if accidents occur.
• Wear clothing that protects your skin even if you have sunblock on.
• Try not to stay under the sun too long.  Wear hats, sunglasses, clothing that covers major parts of your skin when needed.

Will I repurchase?
Yes.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who hates the sticky feel of sunblock.  If you're under Obagi skincare treatment too.

Where to purchase and how much?
At House of Obagi Trinoma, Alabang Town Center, Greenbelt 5, SM North, SM Pampanga and Ronbinsons Place for Php3,740 (approx $87.00).

A photo of me on the 5th day in Singapore.  I walked around the Lion city with Obagi-C C-Sunguard SPF30 applied once a day and so far,  my skin color did not change...at all!  So, I'm ready to say...

"WELCOME TO SINGAPORE!!!"

*arms wide open* LOL

When you're out under the sun for prolong period of time, I strongly suggest to reapply your sunblock and bring with you sunnies and hats.  (I know, I should practice what I preach but hey!  Who's the reviewer here?) *lol*

It feels good to be safe under the harsh sun!  I am actually giving this bottle to Mr. AMW as he hates sunblock application because he perspires a lot and he dislikes the moisturizing feel other sunblock brands offer. 

Love is sharing, and I'm giving up the product I like to the man I love. :D  

Would you be willing to shell out such amount of money for the super matte feel?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

(Author received product during an event.  Reviews 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

AMW Reports: House of Obagi Introduces Obagi 360 System

I was one of the few lucky bloggers who got an invite to enjoy dinner with friends from House of Obagi.  We were told that HOO have their latest product bundle offering called the Obagi 360 System.  In this event, several dermatologist will be available to answer our skin related queries!

The event was held at M Cafe, Greenbelt 5 and most of the bloggers knew each other so there's a lot of chit-chatting going on, actually too much chit-chatting! :P

When I arrived I sat next to Rowena and Shen, well I actually sat at the area "who pays the bill" ! *lol* And it was a fun table as we shared the same table with Dr. Allan Pua, who got all red because someone's harassing him!  *laughs* (Girl, you know who you are :P)

Several questions were thrown at him and he happily answered them.  One question I remembered was "Which Obagi treatment would work for Acne Prone Skin?" - Clenziderm was highly recommended but according to Dr. Pua, it pays to visit a dermatologist for them to check out your skin issues and suggest you the right treatment. 

After the meal, Ms. Eileen Marcelo welcomed everyone.  I actually missed the first HOO event so this was a first for me to visit such lovely HOO Family!

Medical Doctor, Dr. Stephen Lacson started the presentation with a talk on the Obagi 360 System.  The system aims to promote overall skin wellness.  The system brings out the best in our skin because it addresses each skin concern on each individual.

Several Before and After photos where shown to people who went through the Obagi treatment.  I am not surprised because I have several beauty blogger friends who swore on Obagi treatments!  Even my mom-in-law uses the Nuderm set and speaks highly of it!

 **photos from HOO

Speaking of Obagi experiences, a couple of the bloggers present were called to stand up and share their experiences on some Obagi Treatments.

Obagi Blue Peel - Sophie of Beautynomics shared her experience HERE, Rowena of Animetrics shared her experience HERE.
Obagi Blue Peel Radiance - Angela of LushAngel shared her experience HERE

I actually stood up to talk about my experience not on the peeling (as I'm scared at those) but to talk about their new product called Elastilash!  I've been a super OC blogger as I had this for MONTHS but you guys would understand how difficult it is to talk/review about a product for lash growth!  So watch out for this as I'll be reviewing this...within the year!  *lol*

We were also introduced with Obagi Sunblock!  A couple of beauty bloggers swore on the Obagi Nu-Derm Sun Shield in SPF50 as the matte-est of all matte when it comes to sunblock which is highly recommended for oily-skinned!

See how everyone is so engaging?

Then comes the raffle.  Ms. Alexis Santos (in black) from HOO helped in picking 3 super lucky winners for 3 Obagi star products!

Lissa Kahayon won Elastiderm Eye Cream

Phoebe got the Elastilash!

So excited to read her review on this!

Frances won Obagi Pro-C Serum

She even gamely poses with the product, too cute!

I may not need this now but probably will in the future!

**photo from HOO

What not to love?  Group Shot!  Not everyone who attended the event was in this photo because some left already!  The rest are photo addicts! :D

**photo from All The Vanity

Another Group Shot!  

It was also great to meet several bloggers I haven't met in person!  

*waves* Hi Marj! Also hi to Chummy (not on photo)

 **photo from All The Vanity

Thanks Roanne for group photos! 
Ah, such a nice way to de-stress just a couple of days before the week ends!

Any Obagi users or Obagi Treatment addicts out there?
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Bulletin: Ask House of Obagi and Win!

Dear Philippine Readers:

How was the rest of your Tuesday?  Mine went a bit slow but I'm glad I survived!  Let's not forget the super hot and humid weather early afternoon then sudden rain late afternoon, the weather is just as crazy as a woman!  *laughs*

Ok, I nearly forget what's the point of this post! (as always) I've seen a contest going around which I think AMW readers would be very interested in!

ASK HOUSE OF OBAGI

and get a chance to win Obagi Professional C Serum 15%

**photo taken from HOO Facebook page

I've seen the wonders of Obagi from beauty blogging friends and I know a lot of you would want to be given the chance to try their product!  The price is steep but I've heard it's worth it!  I hope an AMW reader wins!!! *biased mode* hahaha

LIKE House of Obagi Facebook Fanpage and follow instructions!

Goodluck!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Note from author: I am in no way affiliated with the company, this post is for information purpose.)

Something New: Obagi Medical Nu-Derm

Way back before I was even a blogger, I heard about the power of Obagi via my Mother-in-law!  I even thought it's a Japanese skincare (sorry, my bad, can't blame me though, it does sound like one!) and I gave a huge *gasp* when I heard how much they retail!  My mom-in-law purchase her Obagi set from her sister in the US.  She swore by it and she loves it dearly!

No wonder she always gets compliment on how good and healthy her skin looks amidst her age!  And the Obagi Skincare line was her secret!  

That was a couple of years ago.  She didn't have much of the Obagi sent over that's why she settled for the more inexpensive skincare line! 

Not until recently, when Obagi celebrated its 11th year anniversary here in the Philippines, I came to read more about the brand and its effectiveness to men and women via blogs and online websites!  The fact that I have been seeing more and more House of Obagi stores around the Metro, that just proves that they are being patronized!  High patronization = High effectiveness = High Trust Ratings!  (Yes, just like how they rate our President!)  *laughs*

I may be a devil when it comes to product reviews and tend to try everything "promising", not this time!  I actually believe in the effectiveness of Obagi, after hearing stories from close friends and of course, my mom-in-law herself, that's why I will be putting this under the Christmas Tree with "Mom-In-Law's Name" on it!  I know that whatever I am using right now is effective enough and I don't need this..YET!  I'll be putting myself aside and prefer to make her happy this coming Christmas!  

To the li'l birdies out there who may have slippery tongue!  *laughs*  I am not worried, this isn't my only gift to her! *bleh* :P But hey, it'll still be better if she doesn't know ok? *chickening out mode*

The set includes:
Gentle Cleanser/ Foaming Gel (60ml) 
Php1,250.00 (approx $29.00)
This gentle formula combines a blend of herbs, natural cleansers and Aloe Vera.  It frees your skin of pollutants without damaging the skin's own natural moisture content.  It leaves all skin types clean and touchably soft. This is meant to be applied to damp face and neck with moistened fingertips.  Rinsing completely.

Toner (60ml)

Php1,250.00 (approx $29.00)

A refreshing blend of natural ingredients and herbs that hydrates and tones the skin while restoring its normal pH balance. This can be applied after cleansing with a cotton ball on your face and neck avoiding the eyelid area.  Do not rinse off!

Exfoderm (28.5g) 

Php2,250.00 (approx $52.00)

An exfoliating lotion containing phytic acid in a soothing base, to smooth and tone rough or damaged skin.  To be applied evenly over entire face and neck avoiding eyelid area.

Healthy Skin Protection SPF35 (30ml)

Php1,200.00 (approx $28.00)

A daily sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum sun protection.  This ultra-smooth Z-cote formula helps prevent sunburn from UVB radiation and protects against long - UVA rays linked to deep premature skin-aging.  Apply every Skin Health Restoration System. 

Thanks to Obagi for creating smaller sizes of these to fit our budget!  For more details on Obagi, you can check on their WEBSITE.

P.S. If you're interested, I may even interview her once she starts to use this product again so I can report on her experiences!

This isn't new in the market but I include this in my "Something New" post because it is indeed new to me as I've never tried this product ever!
How about you? Are you younger than I am and uses Obagi?  

How does it work for you?  I am seriously intrigued!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!