ZO SKIN HEALTH is a medical-grade skincare brand developed by dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi. Our clinic carries products including Melamin for dark spots and dullness and Daily Power Defense for skin firmness and radiance.
Although the brand is known for its Therapeutic Program, which can cause peeling, it also offers everyday serums, moisturizers, cleansers, and sunscreens. Here we introduce our recommended products, how to use them, and their prices.
ZO SKIN HEALTH Benefits: Care for Dark Spots, Dullness, Firmness and Radiance
One of our most frequently recommended products for dark spots and dullness is Melamin. It contains 4% hydroquinone, which inhibits melanin production, and is also used to address pigmentation remaining after treatment for dark spots.
For everyday firmness and radiance, we recommend Daily Power Defense; for dry skin, Recovery Crème provides moisturization. The vitamin C-containing 10% Vitamin C Self-Activating serum and retinol-containing Retinol Skin Brightener also help address dullness and uneven skin texture.
Our Approach to the Therapeutic Program
The ZO SKIN HEALTH Therapeutic Program is a short-term intensive regimen using tretinoin alongside the hydroquinone-containing products Melamin and Melamix.
However, our clinic does not currently actively recommend the Therapeutic Program. Excessive peeling in pursuit of clearer skin may lead to persistent dryness, stinging, and sensitivity that makes even regular skincare products uncomfortable.
We also aim to avoid an unnaturally shiny, over-exfoliated appearance sometimes described in Japan as “vinyl skin.” We do recommend using Melamin alone for pigmentation and dullness, as well as Daily Power Defense for everyday skincare.
If you are already following the Therapeutic Program, please also read about how long to use it, how to discontinue it, and skincare afterward.
Our Recommended ZO SKIN HEALTH Products and How to Choose
Melamin is one of our commonly prescribed products for dark spots and dullness. We often recommend Daily Power Defense for everyday firmness and radiance, and Recovery Crème for those who also want richer moisturization.
| Skin concern | Recommended products and reasons |
|---|---|
| Dark spots and post-treatment pigmentation | Melamin. Hydroquinone helps inhibit melanin production. |
| Daily firmness, radiance and hydration | For firmness and radiance, Daily Power Defense; for richer moisturization, Recovery Crème. Both are frequently recommended at our clinic. |
| Excess oil, shine and clogged pores | For cleansing, Exfoliating Cleanser; for toning, Calming Toner. We also frequently recommend 10% Vitamin C Self-Activating for oily skin. For rough texture, we sometimes suggest Exfoliating Polish. |
| Dullness and uneven texture: high-strength retinol | Retinol Skin Brightener. We select 0.25%, 0.5% or 1.0% according to previous retinol use, including other brands, and skin tolerance. |
| Fine lines and loss of firmness | For uneven texture and fine lines, Wrinkle + Texture Repair is an option. For experienced retinol users seeking additional firmness and radiance, we may recommend the 1% retinol Radical Night Repair. |
| Dullness during pregnancy or breastfeeding | Brightalive may be recommended after medical consultation. This serum contains neither hydroquinone nor retinol. |
| Dryness and tightness after washing | For cleansing very dry skin, Hydrating Cleanser. For moisturizing, Recovery Crème or, for a lighter feel, Renewal Crème. If your toner does not provide enough hydration, consider Nasora HC Enrich Lotion. |
| Dry fine lines around the eyes | Growth Factor Eye Serum helps moisturize the eye area. |
Cleansers, Toners and Exfoliation
Among the cleansers we offer, Exfoliating Cleanser is the most widely used by our patients. We recommend it for a broad range of skin types, from normal to oily.
Exfoliating Cleanser
200mL
¥6,820 (tax included)
Suggested use: morning and evening / the size of a ¥500 coin
This gel cleanser for normal to oily skin removes excess sebum and dead skin cells. Containing ingredients such as salicylic acid, it is suitable for those concerned about clogged pores and shine.
We recommend it not only for oily skin but also for normal skin that is not particularly dry. Some patients also use Exfoliating Polish when their skin feels rough.
Calming Toner
180mL
¥7,700 (tax included)
Suggested use: morning and evening / the size of a ¥500 coin
This toner is used after cleansing. It contains glycolic acid and other ingredients that help soften dead skin cells, along with sodium hyaluronate and panthenol. Its refreshing feel makes it a frequent recommendation for oily skin.
Because it provides relatively light hydration, those who prefer a more moisturizing toner may like Nasora HC Enrich Lotion, formulated with hyaluronic acid, ceramides and proteoglycans.
Exfoliating Polish
65g
¥9,900 (tax included)
Suggested use: 2–3 times weekly / approx. 1 g
This scrub uses fine magnesium oxide particles to physically remove dead skin cells, oil and impurities, leaving skin feeling smoother.
Popular at our clinic for clogged pores and rough texture, it should be gently massaged onto damp skin and rinsed thoroughly. Stop using it if redness or stinging occurs.
If you are concerned about blackheads or enlarged pores, see our guide to different pore types and suitable care and treatments.
Hydrating Cleanser
200mL
¥6,820 (tax included)
Suggested use: morning and evening / the size of a ¥500 coin
This cream cleanser for normal to dry skin contains panthenol, sodium hyaluronate and other ingredients to wash away sebum and makeup while minimizing dryness.
It leaves skin feeling clean without excessive tightness. We recommend it for people who experience dryness after washing or prefer a more moisturizing cleanse.
Gentle Cleanser
200mL
¥6,820 (tax included)
Suggested use: morning and evening / the size of a ¥500 coin
This gel cleanser suits a variety of skin types, removing oil and makeup for a refreshed finish. It is ideal for those who prefer a lighter cleansing feel than a cream cleanser.
Serums and Moisturizers for Firmness and Radiance
For those wishing to include vitamin A in their daily routine, we often recommend Daily Power Defense or Recovery Crème. Daily Power Defense targets firmness and radiance, while Recovery Crème provides more intensive moisturization.
Daily Power Defense
50mL
¥24,200 (tax included)
Suggested use: morning and evening
This serum promotes a firmer, more radiant appearance. It contains retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A, vitamin E and other ingredients that help protect skin from dryness.
Suitable for daily morning and evening use, it is recommended for maintaining skin firmness and radiance. Daily Power Defense and Recovery Crème are among our most frequently repurchased products.
Recovery Crème
50mL
¥18,480 (tax included)
Suggested use: morning and evening
This rich moisturizer is for those seeking intensive hydration. It contains squalane, shea butter and ceramide NG to help prevent dryness.
It also contains retinol and retinyl palmitate. Discontinue use temporarily if your skin becomes sensitive or the product stings.
Renewal Crème
50mL
¥18,480 (tax included)
Suggested use: morning and evening
This lightweight moisturizer hydrates the skin and is suitable for people who dislike heavy creams. It contains retinol and acetyl hexapeptide-8, among other ingredients.
For Dryness, Consider Nasora Moisturizers Too
ZO SKIN HEALTH products can sometimes cause dryness. In addition to Recovery Crème, we recommend Nasora Wrinkle Lift Cream.
This moisturizer contains squalane, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and other ingredients to replenish moisture and support skin firmness. It contains no retinol and can be combined with ZO SKIN HEALTH products. Learn more about its ingredients and use in our Wrinkle Lift Cream article.
Care for Dullness and Uneven Skin Tone
10% Vitamin C Self-Activating
50mL
¥16,280 (tax included)
Suggested use: morning and evening / 2 pumps
This serum contains 10% pure vitamin C (ascorbic acid). It helps smooth skin texture and care for dull-looking skin.
We often recommend it for people concerned about excess oil and facial shine.
Its water-free formulation helps keep vitamin C stable. It does not contain retinol.
Brightalive
50mL
¥22,000 (tax included)
Suggested use: morning and evening / 1–2 pumps
This serum contains neither hydroquinone nor retinol. By hydrating and smoothing skin texture, it helps promote a brighter-looking complexion.
It is an option for those who wish to avoid retinol-related peeling or are taking a break from hydroquinone. After medical consultation, we may also recommend Brightalive for dullness during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
It contains almond-derived ingredients; avoid use if you have a nut allergy.
High-Strength Retinol Products
The following products contain higher concentrations of retinol. Although retinol is generally gentler than tretinoin, it can still cause redness or peeling depending on the concentration, amount applied and frequency of use.
We choose high-strength retinol products according to your concerns. Retinol Skin Brightener is used for dullness and uneven tone; Wrinkle + Texture Repair for uneven texture and fine lines; and Radical Night Repair for experienced retinol users seeking additional firmness and radiance.
Retinol Skin Brightener 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0
50 mL each
0.25: ¥14,300
0.5: ¥16,060
1.0: ¥18,480 (tax included)
Suggested use: evening / 1–2 pumps; start 2–3 times weekly
This serum contains retinol, a vitamin C derivative and bakuchiol. It is used for dullness and uneven tone associated with irregular skin texture.
Available in 0.25%, 0.5% and 1.0% concentrations, it is selected according to retinol experience and skin response. Beginners start with 0.25%.
For patients already accustomed to retinol, including other brands, we may prescribe Retinol Skin Brightener 1.0 even on their first ZO SKIN HEALTH prescription.
Wrinkle + Texture Repair
50mL
¥24,640 (tax included)
Suggested use: evening / 1–2 pumps; start 2–3 times weekly
This cream contains 0.5% retinol and is used to address uneven skin texture and fine lines. It moisturizes and promotes a smoother, firmer appearance.
Its formulation delivers retinol to the outer layer of the skin and includes proprietary skin-conditioning complexes ZCORE and ZPRO. Peptides and botanical extracts help maintain hydration and firmness.
Radical Night Repair
60mL
¥25,300 (tax included)
Suggested use: evening / 1–2 pumps; start 1–2 times weekly
This product contains 1% retinol. We recommend it for those experienced with retinol, including other brands, who want to improve firmness and radiance. It also helps care for dullness and uneven texture.
It uses encapsulated retinol designed for delivery to the outer skin layer.
Avoid retinol-containing products during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Stop use and consult us if significant irritation occurs. Please inform us of any nut allergies before use.
Hydroquinone Products
Hydroquinone inhibits production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots. Sometimes called a “skin-lightening agent,” it is used to address dark spots and dullness.
Melamin and Melamix
80 mL each
¥14,300 each (tax included)
Suggested use: Melamin: morning and evening / Melamix: evening
Both Melamin and Melamix are creams containing 4% hydroquinone.
In particular, Melamin is frequently prescribed at our clinic for dark spots, dullness and residual pigmentation following spot treatments.
Used morning and evening, it helps reduce uneven tone and dullness for a brighter appearance. Our staff also use it.
Melamix is mixed with prescription tretinoin for use in the Therapeutic Program. In this regimen, Melamin is used morning and evening, while Melamix is mixed with tretinoin and applied at night.
Hydroquinone can cause redness or dermatitis, and the manufacturer advises a maximum use period of five months. For precautions and how to manage redness, see Hydroquinone Side Effects and Management.
Sunscreens and UV Protection Over Makeup
Daily sunscreen is an essential part of skincare, helping protect against UV exposure that contributes to dark spots, dullness, sagging and wrinkles. Here are the ZO SKIN HEALTH sunscreens available at our clinic.
Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50 / PA++++
118g
¥12,320 (tax included)
Suggested use: morning / reapply during the day
This sunscreen uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide rather than chemical UV filters. It also contains moisturizing ingredients and has a hydrating feel.
Its formulation also takes into account potential skin effects of near-infrared radiation and blue light.
Sunscreen + Powder SPF 30
3g
¥8,800 (tax included)
Suggested use: morning and during the day / also for makeup touch-ups
This portable tinted sunscreen powder comes with a brush. It absorbs excess oil, reduces shine and can be applied over makeup.
Its subtle pearlescent finish blends easily. Apply a cream or other sunscreen in the morning, then use the powder over makeup when out and about. It is convenient for refreshing both sunscreen and makeup.
Sunscreen + Primer SPF 30
30mL
¥8,800 (tax included)
Suggested use: morning / can also be used as makeup primer
Combining sunscreen and makeup primer, this product uses a formulation without chemical UV filters and provides a silky matte finish.
It helps prevent dryness while smoothing skin before makeup.
Anti-Aging Care for the Face, Neck and Eyes
Growth Factor Serum
30mL
¥23,540 (tax included)
Suggested use: evening / 1 pump
This serum is for those concerned about firmness in the face and neck. Sodium hyaluronate, peptides and other ingredients help hydrate and firm the skin. It contains no retinol.
Growth Factor Eye Serum
15mL
¥20,460 (tax included)
Suggested use: evening / 1 pump per eye
This eye serum addresses dryness-related fine lines around the eyes. Moisturizing ingredients including sodium acetylated hyaluronate help hydrate the eye area.
In our experience, eye makeup may hold up better the following morning. Its compact packaging is also convenient for travel.
How to Layer ZO SKIN HEALTH Products
In the morning, cleanse and tone, then apply the appropriate serums and moisturizers, finishing with sunscreen. At night, follow a similar routine without sunscreen.
The application order varies by product. For example, when using Radical Night Repair with other creams, apply it after the other creams. We explain the appropriate order for your chosen combination at purchase.
For waterproof or other makeup that regular face wash cannot remove easily, use a makeup remover. We also recommend Nasora HC Clay Cleansing, which uses clay to absorb and remove makeup, excess oil and pore impurities.
See the products and application order used by our aesthetic nurses morning and night in our Staff Skincare Routine.
Interested in ZO SKIN HEALTH for Dark Spots, Dullness, Firmness or Radiance?
Please contact us if you want to address post-treatment pigmentation or improve skin firmness and radiance while minimizing peeling.
We also carry additional ZO SKIN HEALTH products not listed here.
We also offer a variety of medical-grade skincare brands, including GAUDISKIN and M-DEAR. If you would like to improve your skin concerns through skincare, please get in touch.
Ask Us About ZO SKIN HEALTH and Skincare
References: Official Product Information
- Official Manufacturer Product List
- Daily Power Defense
- Recovery Crème
- Renewal Crème
- Retinol Products and Precautions
- Retinol Skin Brightener
- 10% Vitamin C Self-Activating
- Brightalive
- Precautions for Hydroquinone Products
- Cleansing and Exfoliation Products
- Exfoliating Polish
- Sunscreen + Powder
- Growth Factor Serum
- Growth Factor Eye Serum
- Nasora Wrinkle Lift Cream
- Nasora HC Enrich Lotion
- Calming Toner
- Manufacturer FAQ: Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding









