What is Healthy Skin?

Dr. Zein Obagi first introduced the definition of skin health in 1983 and expanded it in 2008. His definition provides specific, easily recognized physiological, histological, and clinical attributes that can be represented by the skin of a baby as a model for healthy skin. According to the author, skin treatments must correct any abnormality in skin health that deviates from the definition so that it attains the desirable attributes.

“Currently skin health does not have a widely accepted definition or model, as it means different things to different people throughout the world. Healthy skin is frequently described as beautiful, flawless, glowing, and young, but these terms are imprecise and reflect subjective and non-quantifiable characteristics,” says Dr. Obagi.

HEALTHY SKIN IS NATURALLY:

• Smooth
• Even in color tone
• Firm and tight
• Hydrated
• Tolerant
• Contour rich
• Free of disease

Dr. Obagi’s goals to achieve optimum skin health include the following 4 steps:

1. Restore skin smoothness, tolerance, and even color tone
2. Provide uniform hydration
3. Improve circulation
4. Regulate skin cellular functions

“Most of us begin life with healthy, unflawed skin, but environmental, internal, and hereditary factors and the normal process of aging proceed to undo what was ours at birth. Over time, activities promoting skin health decrease and deterioration begin. Intrinsic aging and/or photoaging (sun damage) cause anatomical, physiological, and clinical changes. These range from a sensation of dryness and dull, weathered skin to wrinkling, jowling, laxity, skin thinning, and easy bruising. Although these changes may not be detectable in youth, they are occurring and will become visible with age,” Dr. Obagi says.

To reverse the signs of aging skin and restore skin to a healthy state, consult with a ZO Authorized Physician.