Dr. Obagi has developed a unique skin classification system that fills the gaps left by other systems such as the Baumann and Fitzpatrick classifications. While these systems provide valuable insights into a patient’s skin characteristics, they also have limitations.
The Baumann system divides skin into four characteristics: dry or oily, sensitive or resistant, pigmented or non-pigmented, and tight or wrinkled. The Fitzpatrick system, on the other hand, categorizes skin based on hair color, skin color, and reaction to sunlight, into six types ranging from Type 1 for fair-skinned redheads to Type 6 for dark-skinned individuals.
While these systems can help doctors select appropriate treatments, they do not account for the complex variables that affect skin response to treatment. Dr. Obagi’s system incorporates five variables: skin color, thickness, oiliness, elasticity, and fragility. It goes beyond traditional systems by classifying skin color as original, deviated, or complex and including additional variables to provide a more comprehensive understanding of a patient’s skin.
Understanding a patient’s unique skin characteristics is crucial in predicting the skin’s response to treatment. Dr. Obagi’s skin classification system offers a more complete picture of a patient’s skin, improving the accuracy of treatment predictions and reducing the risk of unexpected complications.