Obagi or Skinceuticals: Which Is Best?

Obagi, a pharmaceutical company, founded in 1988, creates products designed to diminish the appearance of aging and damaged skin, while also treating issues such as hyperpigmentation and acne. Products include five specifically designed systems of skincare, six targeted products for aging and wrinkles for skin around the eyes, face and neck, two recovery items for wounds, burns and scars and two in-office procedures (peel and facial). Obagi also designs products for dry, sensitive and acne prone skin. It is especially important to note that many of Obagi products are prescription-strength formulations. Depending on need or skin type, a consumer may require such a product or need to avoid one so strong.


Skinceuticals, a company releasing products since 1997 and researching since 1994, offers seven specific systems of care and an abundance of individual products as well. Their line includes fragrance-free items, sunscreens and corrective serums as well as anti-aging and antioxidant products. Products include exfoliants, masks, toners, moisturizers as well as care for the eyes, lips, body and face. Dr. Sheldon Pinnel, MD is the founder of the company. Skinceuticals also employs biologists, chemists and biophysicists to advance the line.


Skinceutical products target acne, anti-aging, and skin discoloration concerns while recognizing that each of these concerns occurs across skin types – normal, combination, dry, oil and sensitive – and designs products specific to type. Their hyaluronic acid serum reportedly holds up to 1000x its weight in water, thus helping the skin to absorb significantly more moisture. Products also contain retinol, vitamin C, vitamin E and L-ascorbic acid.


Obagi or Skinceuticals? Upon assessment of these two product lines, this review recommends Skinceuticals for two main reasons. One: specificity. Skinceuticals allows the user to find a formulation for their exact skin type, skin concern, and area of the body. Two: transparency. Ingredients are clearer and the research more public. As a consumer, it appears Skinceuticals can more aptly meet your specified needs.

Make the call for yourself based on your needs by checking out all of the Skinceuticals and Obagi product.