THINK: The secrets behind youthful Asian skin.

Online, November 4, 2009 (Newswire.com) - WHAT IT IS: For centuries, women around the world have envied the smooth, delicate, even skin that Asians often enjoy. How do they do it? Is it naturally that way? Partly: One reason Asian skin look so flawless is that it contains more melanin and burns less easily, though dedication to sun protection helps too. However, sometimes they have to work at it-and many look to Zein Obagi, MD, whose name has become synonymous with beautiful skin in Asia. Since introducing products that successfully treat sun-damaged, hyper-pigmented and acne-prone skin, Dr. Obagi and his new ZO Skin Health™ line are gaining increased popularity with Asian women.

"Asian skin tends to be sensitive to sunlight, hormonal changes, hot water, saunas and steam," reveals Dr. Zein Obagi, expert dermatologist and founder of ZO Skin Health. "Asian complexions also react negatively to the use of some skincare products, moisturizers and fragrances, all of which can result in acne, scarring and increased pigmentation. Look out for ingredients like ammonia, arnia, and sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate, especially if they appear at or near the top of the list, meaning there is a higher concentration of those irritants. A daily routine for Asian skin should include gentle yet powerful formulas like my Ossential™ Daily Power Defense, an advanced complex that encourages the skin's DNA repair mechanisms to self-correct, aiding in the reduction of collagen degradation and restoring firmness."

"While melanin acts as a built-in SPF protection and helps prevent sunburns, it also contributes to discoloration," explains Dr. Obagi. "Even light complexions can contain melanin in deeper layers of the skin, which can induce pigment problems like sun spots, dark patches and deep discoloration that is resistant to treatment. Dark spots on the cheeks usually begin to appear in the 30's and 40's, although they can start to show earlier. Unfortunately, traditional ways of treating these pigmentation problems-IPL, photorejuvenation, light chemical peels and microdermabrasion-are frequently ineffective on Asian complexions and can worsen hyper-pigmentation. To prevent discoloration, apply broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with at least SPF 30 protection like my Oclipse Sunscreen + Primer every day, rain or shine, whether you're indoors or out. Applying sunscreen not only reduces the risk of skin cancer, but also helps reduce the incidence of pigmentation problems."

"Asian skin tends to have more sebaceous glands, producing more oil and contributing to acne and breakouts," says Dr. Obagi. "To combat oily complexions, avoid products made with mineral oil, the oil most commonly found in skincare products. Steer clear of harsh cleansers and formulas that contain alcohol, as alcohol can cause skin to produce even more oil." Dr. Obagi's new ZO Skin Health line contains two products specifically for the treatment of acne-Offects TE pads, which are soaked in salicylic acid; and Offects Exfoliating Polish, which sloughs off dead skin cells that clog pores and cause acne.

According to Dr. Obagi, the best way to treat all of these problems is by stimulating the skin to rejuvenate itself and expedite cellular renewal. ZO Skin Health products are specifically developed to promote renewal, giving every skin type-including sensitive Asian complexions-the tools needed to heal and repair.

Dr. Obagi is a pioneer in the treatment of Asian skin and has lectured and traveled extensively throughout Asia, training dermatologists and plastic surgeons. He owns and operates a practice in San Gabriel, California (626-288-5115) with a staff fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese. His main office is in Beverly Hills, California.

Where to Find it: www.zoskinhealth.com