As we’ve discussed, ZO Skin Health’s philosophy centres on a comprehensive and systematic approach to achieving and maintaining true skin health [your previous turn]. A cornerstone of this philosophy is the 3-Step Approach, and the very first of these steps is Getting Skin Ready® (GSR®).
Getting Skin Ready® is considered the essential foundation upon which all other ZO Skin Health protocols are built. Its primary purpose is to bring your skin back to its healthiest, most balanced state, regardless of your individual skin type. This crucial step works synergistically to normalise skin functions and, importantly, to optimise the effectiveness of all subsequent ZO programmes.
Dr. Zein Obagi himself emphasises the vital role of Getting Skin Ready® in both preventing and controlling a wide array of skin concerns, including acne, rosacea, shaving bumps, pigmentation issues, enlarged pores, and rough or damaged skin texture. It’s about establishing a healthy canvas before introducing more targeted treatments or preventative measures.
The Getting Skin Ready® system is built around three core actions: cleanse, exfoliate, and tone. Each of these actions plays a specific role in preparing the skin for optimal health:
Cleanse: This step involves washing away debris, oil, and makeup from the skin’s surface. ZO Skin Health offers a range of cleansers tailored to different skin types and needs, including:
Gentle Cleanser: Suitable for all skin types, it removes impurities while leaving skin feeling refreshed and hydrated.
Hydrating Cleanser: Designed for normal to dry skin, it cleanses while minimising dryness and irritation.
Exfoliating Cleanser: Formulated for normal to oily and acne-prone skin, it targets surface oil and helps to keep pores clear.
Balancing Cleansing Emulsion: A gel-to-milk formula suitable for all skin types, especially sensitised and post-treatment skin, that gently lifts oil and impurities while supporting the skin barrier.
Exfoliate: This action helps to remove skin-clogging dead skin cells, revealing a smoother and brighter complexion. ZO Skin Health provides exfoliators to aid in this process:
Exfoliating Polish: Uses ultra-fine magnesium oxide crystals to physically exfoliate dead skin cells, instantly smoothing the skin.
Dual Action Scrub: Offers both physical and chemical exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and excess surface oil, particularly beneficial for oily to acne-prone skin.
Tone: This final step in GSR® helps to remove any remaining impurities, balance the skin’s pH, and prepare it for subsequent treatments. ZO Skin Health offers various toners and pads:
Calming Toner: A pH-balanced toner designed to remove impurities and invigorate weak and sensitive skin.
Complexion Renewal Pads: Moistened pads that help minimise surface oil and exfoliate pore-clogging dead skin cells.
Oil Control Pads Acne Treatment: A maximum-strength acne prevention solution designed to help clear acne and reduce excess surface oil.
The specific ZO Skin Health products recommended for your Getting Skin Ready® routine will depend on your individual skin type and concerns. ZO provides guidance on product selection based on whether your skin is normal to sensitised, normal to dry, all skin types, or oily and acne-prone. As emphasised earlier, the importance of Getting Skin Ready® cannot be overstated within the ZO Skin Health philosophy. By consistently following this foundational routine of cleanse, exfoliate, and tone, you are not only preparing your skin to better receive and benefit from the Prevent + Correct and Protect steps, but you are also actively working towards normalising its functions and laying the groundwork for long-term skin health, aligning perfectly with ZO’s comprehensive approach. In essence, Getting Skin Ready® is the indispensable first step on your journey to achieving and maintaining healthy skin with ZO.