Obagi Medical has increased its retail opportunities now that its liquid exfoliator, Clenziderm M.D. Pore Therapy, is available in the UK without a prescription.

The BHA toner features two per cent salicylic acid to reduce blemishes, target acne-causing bacteria, control excess sebum and unclog pores.

The product’s solvent system has been reformulated to meet updated cosmetic classification standards while maintaining its clinical efficacy and no longer needs a doctor’s prescription.

Simone Shoffman, clinical and education director at medical aesthetic products distributor HealthXchange, told Spa Business: "Spas can more easily recommend and retail this professional-strength solution, giving patients access to a trusted blemish and oil-control treatment they can continue at home, while allowing clinics to integrate a high-performance product into both treatment protocols and retail offerings."

A clinical test of the product in 2024 found 83 per cent of participants agreed their skin looked smoother, 20 per cent saw a reduction in blemish severity and 32 per cent saw a reduction in oiliness.

The product is designed to be used after cleansing, by applying a thin layer of the solution to the skin with a cotton pad. Designed for normal to oily skin, it is advised to start using the product once daily to avoid dryness, before increasing frequency of use as required. The product is not washed off.

The toner retails for £49.50 (US$63, €58).