Antioxidant Serums
What is an antioxidant?
Antioxidant serums are concentrated, lightweight treatments packed with powerful compounds like vitamins C and E, green tea polyphenols, and botanical extracts. These serums work like a shield for your skin, targeting free radicals—unstable molecules from UV rays, pollution, and daily stress that can damage cells. At Glō Aesthetics, our Lumeno Antioxidant Serums harnesses a stable blend of these ingredients to provide pharmaceutical-grade protection in a fast-absorbing formula, perfect for all skin types.
What does an antioxidant serum really do for the skin?
An antioxidant serum neutralizes free radicals before they cause oxidative stress, which leads to collagen breakdown, inflammation, and dullness. It brightens the complexion, evens tone, boosts hydration, and supports your skin’s natural barrier. For patients at Glō Aesthetics and Highlander Dermatology, incorporating Lumeno’s serum has shown visible improvements in texture and radiance within weeks, helping to fade fine lines and protect against environmental aging.
Why are antioxidant serums important for your skin?
In today’s world, your skin faces constant assault from blue light, pollution, and sun exposure—factors that accelerate premature aging by up to 80%. Antioxidant serums are essential because they interrupt this damage at the source, promoting long-term resilience and glow. We recommend them as a cornerstone of preventive care at Highlander Dermatology; Lumeno’s serums not only defend but also enhance the efficacy of your sunscreen and moisturizers for comprehensive daily protection.
Is vitamin C serum an antioxidant?
Absolutely—vitamin C is one of the most potent antioxidants available! It’s a superstar for brightening, collagen stimulation, and fighting hyperpigmentation. Our Lumeno Vitamin CE 20% Serum combines stabilized vitamin C with vitamin E and green tea polyphenols for enhanced stability and potency, ensuring it remains effective longer than standard formulas. It’s a go-to recommendation from our dermatologists for patients seeking a multi-tasking antioxidant boost.
Can antioxidant serums help with hyperpigmentation?
Yes, many antioxidant serums are excellent for hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production and fading dark spots. Vitamin C, phytoactive’s and niacinamide are particularly effective at evening tone over time. Lumeno’s Vitamin CE 20% Serum targets this concern head-on, with studies showing up to 20% reduction in pigmentation after consistent use. At Glō Aesthetics in Brookfield, we pair it with professional treatments like Thulium resurfacing and chemical peels for faster, more dramatic results.
When should you apply antioxidant serums?
Apply antioxidant serums in the morning after cleansing, but before moisturizer and sunscreen—this maximizes their protective benefits against daytime exposures. For evening, a second layer can aid overnight repair. With Lumeno serums, start with 2-3 drops patted gently onto clean skin; always patch-test if you’re new to actives. Our team advises building tolerance gradually to avoid sensitivity.
What is the best antioxidant for your face?
The “best” depends on your unique concerns, but for overall facial protection and anti-aging, a broad-spectrum vitamin C serum reigns supreme—it’s versatile, research-proven, and suitable for most. Lumeno’s signature Antioxidant Defense Serum, with its tripleantioxidant complex (C, E, and GTP), is our top pick for facial use at Highlander Dermatology. It addresses fine lines, dullness, and unevenness comprehensively, delivering glowing, resilient skin with daily application. Lumeno’s Phyto Multi-Correction Serum excels in sensitive skin-types to fade discoloration, calm redness, and promote a more balanced complexion while helping fine lines. This makes it ideal for concerns like melasma and sensitive or mature skin that cannot tolerate higher concentrations of vitamin C.
Anti-Aging Creams
What are the benefits of anti-aging creams?
Anti-aging creams provide multifaceted benefits, including deep hydration, collagen stimulation, improved elasticity, and protection against environmental damage. They can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven tone. Our Lumeno creams incorporate proprietary retinol/antioxidant combinations and peptides for daily rejuvenation, while Plated serums use platelet-derived exosomes to accelerate skin renewal, visibly diminishing signs of aging. Patients often see firmer, more radiant skin with consistent use, making them ideal for preventing and addressing signs of aging.
What are the best anti-aging face cream ingredients?
The most effective ingredients include retinoids for cell turnover and collagen production, antioxidants like vitamin C for free radical defense, and growth factors for repair. We particularly recommend retinol combined with bakuchiol—a natural alternative that enhances efficacy while minimizing irritation—as seen in our Lumeno retinol-bakuchiol serums. For advanced anti-aging, platelet-derived growth factors in Plated products stand out, as they target cellular senescence in mature skin by stimulating collagen, elastin and innate hyaluronic production; promoting rejuvenation.
Do anti-aging creams really work?
Yes, when formulated with clinically proven ingredients and used consistently, anti-aging creams can deliver noticeable improvements. Studies show they enhance skin health by normalizing tone, reducing wrinkles, and boosting hydration over 4-6 weeks. At Highlander Dermatology, our Lumeno creams from Topix have helped patients achieve smoother texture and reduced fine lines through targeted formulas. Plated products, with their exosome technology, excel in reversing cellular aging in mature skin, leading to up to 20% improvement in pigmentation and firmness based on clinical observations. Results vary, but pairing with professional treatments like microneedling or non-ablative resurfacing amplifies efficacy.
What is the prejuventation, when should I start anti-aging products?
Prevention is key, so we recommend starting in your mid-20s to early 30s when collagen production begins to decline. Prevujenation is an aesthetic approach aimed at preventing signs of aging before they become prominent, rather than just treating them after they appear. It involves using advanced products, treatments, and lifestyle adjustments—often starting in your 20s or 30s—to maintain youthful skin, delay wrinkles, and protect against environmental damage like UV rays and pollution.
What is the difference between wrinkle creams and anti-aging creams?
Wrinkle creams specifically target existing lines and creases, often with ingredients like peptides or hyaluronic acid for immediate plumping. Anti-aging creams take a broader approach, preventing future damage through antioxidants, retinoids, growth factors (exosomes), and cell renewal while also addressing wrinkles. At Glō Aesthetics, our Lumeno anti-aging creams encompass both, but Plated products differentiate by focusing on holistic reversal of cellular senescence in mature skin via platelet-derived factors. Wrinkle focused options might be lighter, while our full anti-aging regimens, including retinol-bakuchiol, offer long-term results.
Facial Moisturizers
Why are face moisturizers important?
Face cream and other moisturizers are a necessity in every skincare routine. In addition to preventing dryness and moisture loss, properly formulated face moisturizers like those in our Lumeno line deliver long-lasting hydration to support the skin’s natural barrier for protection against external aggressors. They’re also an important step in prepping skin for makeup application, ensuring a smooth, even finish.
What are the best face moisturizers?
The best face moisturizers depend on your skin type, but our Lumeno Moisturizing Cream and Lumeno Oil-Free Gel are top picks. The Moisturizing Cream offers rich hydration with ceramides and hyaluronic acid for dry skin, while the Oil-Free Gel provides lightweight moisture with niacinamide for oily or combination skin. Both are dermatologist-tested at Glō Aesthetics at Highlander Dermatology for efficacy and non-comedogenic properties, delivering a balanced glow without irritation.
Is face moisturizer necessary?
Yes, face moisturizer is essential regardless of skin type. Even oily skin needs hydration to maintain its barrier and prevent overproduction of sebum. We recommend Lumeno products to all patients—whether dry, oily, or sensitive—because they lock in moisture, protect against environmental stressors, and enhance the effectiveness of other skincare steps like sunscreen or serums.
Which moisturizers are best for daily use in the morning?
For daily use, opt for gentle, non-irritating formulas like Lumeno Antioxidant SPF Moisturizer, which combines SPF with hydration, or Lumeno Hydrating Gel for a light, non-greasy option. These are designed for consistent application at Highlander Dermatology, offering broad-spectrum protection and moisture without clogging pores, making them ideal for morning and evening routines across all skin types.
What is the best face cream for dry skin?
For dry skin, the Lumeno Advanced Peptide Tri-Lipid Renewal Cream stands out, enriched with peptides for anti-aging, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid to restore moisture and repair the skin barrier. Users of this moisturizer report significant improvement in flakiness and tightness within a week, making it a go-to for combating severe dryness, especially in colder months and mature skin.
Are face moisturizers good for oily skin?
Yes, moisturizers are beneficial for oily skin when formulated to be lightweight and non-comedogenic. The Lumeno Vita A-C-E Fortified Moisturizer with its light feel and full of anti-oxidants, helps regulate oil while hydrating, preventing damage from environmental stressors. At Glō, Lumeno Pure HA is a favorite for oily-skinned patients seeking a shine-free finish without compromising moisture.
How often should you apply face moisturizers?
Apply face moisturizers twice daily—morning and night—after cleansing and serums. Use Lumeno products consistently; a thin layer of an SPF moisturizer is ideal in the morning and a slightly thicker one at night with Lumeno Tri-Lipid Renewal Cream maximizes hydration and barrier support while helping to reduce fine lines.
Retinol
What is retinol?
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative, widely researched for its ability to promote cell turnover and diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. Retinoids as a class, which include tretinoin and retinol, stimulate collagen production. Our Lumeno retinol-bakuchiol creams combine pure retinol with bakuchiol—a natural antioxidant derived from babchi seeds—to enhance efficacy while reducing irritation, making it a standout choice for all skin types.
What kind of retinol should I use?
The right retinol depends on your skin’s tolerance and goals. We offer Lumeno retinol-bakuchiol in low, medium, and high strengths. Start with the low strength if you’re new to retinoids, progressing to medium or high as tolerated—studies show this blend outperforms tretinoin for wrinkle reduction with less redness. Retinol’s can be irritating to the skin, especially if you go start with higher concentrations. Most skin can be slowly “trained” by starting lower and working your way up over months to a year.
Can I use retinol cream every night?
For most, starting with every other night is ideal to build tolerance, especially with Lumeno’s retinol-bakuchiol blends. Once your skin adjusts (typically after 2-4 weeks), daily use is safe for many. At Glō Aesthetics, we advise monitoring for sensitivity—reduce to 2-3 times weekly if irritation occurs—and always follow with a moisturizer to lock in benefits.
What about tretinoin?
Tretinoin, a potent prescription-strength retinoid, outperforms retinol in accelerating cell turnover and treating fine lines, wrinkles, and acne with faster, more dramatic results—often reducing fine wrinkles over two times more than retinol’s improvement. However, it can cause more irritation and requires careful use, making it less suitable for sensitive skin, whereas retinol (like Lumeno’s retinol-bakuchiol blends) offers a gentler alternative with comparable benefits over time. Tretinoin requires a prescription, which can be provided by our medical providers or coordinated through an Aesthetician at Glō Aesthetics during a consultation, ensuring personalized strength and application guidance tailored to your skin’s needs.
Are retinol creams safe to use during pregnancy?
No, retinol or tretinoin creams and serums are not safe during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus. We advise avoiding all retinol products, including Lumeno blends, during this time. Consult your provider for safe alternatives, and we can tailor a pregnancy friendly skincare plan during your visit.
Can I use a Vitamin C and retinol together?
Yes, with proper timing. Vitamin C works best in the morning for antioxidant protection, while retinol is ideal at night for cell turnover. At Glō Aesthetics, we suggest using Lumeno Vitamin CE + GTP Serum in the AM and retinol-bakuchiol at night to maximize benefits without compromising stability—consult our team for a customized schedule.
Can retinol creams help with acne?
Yes, retinol promotes cell turnover, unclogging pores and reducing acne. Our Lumeno retinol-bakuchiol blends, especially the medium and high strengths, have helped patients manage mild to moderate acne, with studies showing efficacy comparable to tretinoin but with less irritation. Tretinoin can be used in stronger concentrations and is more effective than retinols for acne, but is more drying. Pair with a non-comedogenic moisturizer for best results.
Can I use retinol cream in the sun?
Although retinol may slightly increase sun sensitivity, it’s best applied at night mostly because it is inactivated by sunlight. During the day, use a broad-spectrum mineral based SPF (like Lumeno Antioxidant SPF Moisturizer) to protect your skin. At Glō Aesthetics, we emphasize sun protection as part of any retinol regimen. It is a myth you can’t use retinol in summer, just protect and enjoy the benefits.
Cleansers & Exfoliants
What is the best facial cleanser for me?
The best facial cleanser depends on your skin type, but for versatility, we recommend Lumeno’s Revitalizing Cleanser, an elegant and gentle deep cleanser that removes impurities and makeup while calming with green tea and botanical derived antioxidants. For ultrasensitive skin, Alastin’s gentle cleanser with its foaming gel technology to remove impurities while the oat kernel extracts soothe and calm sensitized skin, while infusing hydration with panthenol. Our patients love these for their non-stripping formulas that leave skin refreshed and balanced.
What is the difference between a face wash and a facial cleanser?
There’s no significant difference between a face wash and a facial cleanser; both are designed to clear the skin of excess oil, dirt, makeup, and other impurities. Regardless of the format (gel, foam, or cream), all the options at Glō—like Alastin’s Gentle Cleanser or Lumeno’s Revitalizing Cleanser—are formulated to effectively clean without stripping natural moisture, making them interchangeable for daily use. We recommend avoiding detergent based cleansers and alcohol-rich toners that strip away natural oils and compromise skin barrier function.
How do you best use a facial cleanser?
Wet your face with lukewarm water, apply a dime-sized amount of cleanser (like Lumeno’s Revitalizing Cleanser), and massage gently in circular motions for 30-60 seconds, focusing on the T-zone. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Use morning and night. We advise following with a Lumeno serum to allow deep penetration and lock in moisture—always avoid very hot water to preserve moisture.
Should I use a facial cleanser every day?
Absolutely—daily use (twice) is recommended to maintain a clean, healthy barrier. Gentle options like Lumeno’s Revitalizing Cleanser or Alastin’s Gentle Cleanser are formulated for tolerance without irritation. At Highlander Dermatology, we tailor frequency based on skin type; sensitive patients start once daily, building to twice for optimal prevention of dullness and breakouts.
What are facial exfoliators?
Facial exfoliators slough off dead skin cells using physical (like scrubs) or chemical (acids) methods to reveal smoother, brighter skin. Alastin’s ReSURFACE Skin Polish from our lineup uses volcanic minerals and glycolic acid for dual-action polishing, At Glō Aesthetics, these support cell turnover without abrasion, ideal for enhancing procedure outcomes.
Can I use skin exfoliators daily?
Mostly skin cannot tolerate daily exfoliation. Alastin’s ReSURFACE Skin Polish should be 1-3 times weekly to avoid irritation. As a rule, start slow and monitor; over-exfoliation can weaken the barrier, Our dermatologists recommend minimizing irritation and protecting your skin’s barrier function by avoiding over-scrubbing, even if it removes more debris and dead cells. It’s a fine balance.
Should I use exfoliants morning or night?
Exfoliants are best at night to promote overnight renewal, allowing actives like glycolic acid in Alastin’s ReSURFACE to work without sun exposure. Morning use is fine but nighttime application minimizes sensitivity—always layer with a moisturizer to soothe.
Are exfoliants good for your skin?
Yes, when used appropriately, exfoliants improve texture, reduce dullness, and boost product absorption by removing buildup. Alastin’s ReSURFACE, with its hydrating minerals, showed 100% improvement in dullness after one week in studies. At Glō Aesthetics, we select Lumeno and Alastin options for all types, but caution against overuse—pair with barrier-supporting products for lasting benefits.
Can exfoliating help reduce wrinkles?
Indirectly…yes, by accelerating cell turnover, exfoliants like Alastin’s glycolic-powered ReSURFACE smooth fine lines and stimulate collagen by also allowing actives from serums and moisturizers to deeply penetrate for firmer skin. Clinical data shows visible wrinkle reduction after consistent use. At Glō Aesthetics, integrating with Lumeno’s retinol-bakuchiol line amplifies anti-aging—our patients see smoother results when combined with professional treatments.
Sunscreens
What is a broad spectrum sunscreen?
A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects the skin from both UVA (aging rays that penetrate deep, causing wrinkles, breakdown collagen and induce unwanted pigment) and UVB (burning rays that lead to sunburn and directly relate to most skin cancer). A daily-use facial sunscreen is essential to prevent sun damage that contributes to premature signs of aging and skin cancer. All sunscreens are not created equal, which is why it’s especially important to choose a broad-spectrum option covering both UVA, UVB and even visible light for those with melasma. At Glō Aesthetics, Lumeno Skin Solutions Daily sunscreen, Alastin’s Hydratint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum and SkinBetter’s SPF’s deliver this essential triple protection in lightweight, mineral formulas that suit every skin type.
How much facial sunscreen should you use?
Apply about 1/4 teaspoon (or two finger tips) to the face and neck for full coverage—enough to form a visible layer without excess. At Highlander Dermatology, we stress this “teaspoon rule” for our mineral sunscreens like SkinBetter’s Clear SPF 50+, ensuring no gaps in protection. Reapply every 2 hours outdoors or after sweating/swimming; under-application halves efficacy, so our team demonstrates during visits for proper technique.
What is the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens?
The two main types are chemical (absorb UV and convert to heat, like avobenzone) and mineral (reflect UV like a shield, using zinc oxide/titanium dioxide). We exclusively recommend mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as the gold standard for sun protection, offering broad-spectrum UVA and UVB coverage superior to chemical alternatives. Now with micronized minerals, these sunscreens provide a cosmetically elegant, sheer finish, making them ideal for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone, while being the only SPF ingredients proven safe in humans. Unlike chemical filters, they reflect UV rays immediately without absorption risks, are reef-safe and environmentally friendly. Alastin, SkinBetter and Lumeno exemplify this with clean non-comedogenic formulas that won’t sting eyes or leave a white film.
What is SPF in sunscreen?
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures protection against UVB rays: SPF 30 blocks ~97% of UVB, while SPF 50 blocks ~98%. It doesn’t indicate UVA coverage—that’s why broad-spectrum is key. We recommend mineral SPF 30+ daily (like Lumeno’s Antioxidant 50 SPF Moisturizer) for balanced protection.
Why do we recommend using a separate or additional antioxidant serum with your sunscreen?
Antioxidants like vitamin C neutralize free radicals that sunscreen can’t fully block, enhancing defense against pollution and IR damage, which sunscreens do not cover. Pairing Lumeno Vita C E 20% Serum under Lumeno’s Antioxidant SPF creates a powerhouse duo for melasma and aging prevention. This combo reduces oxidative stress and additional 40% in studies—apply serum first, then sunscreen, for amplified results without greasiness.
Eye care
Which eye cream is best for dark circles?
For dark circles, which often stem from pigmentation or thin skin and/or puffiness, we recommend Plated’s Intense Eye Serum—its platelet-derived exosomes target melanin and boost circulation for up to 30% brighter under-eyes in weeks. Layer with Lumeno’s ultimate Eye Repair with retinol and antioxidant support.
Are eye creams really necessary?
Yes, eye creams are necessary because the under-eye skin is thinner (just 0.5mm vs. 2mm elsewhere) and lacks oil glands, making it prone to dryness, crepiness, and faster aging. While a facial moisturizer can suffice, specialized formulas like Lumeno’s Ultimate Eye Repair with retinol, peptides and caffeine address unique concerns like puffiness. Our patients see sustained firmness and reduced shadows with consistent use—it’s an investment in prevention.
Can I use my face retinol around my eyes?
For eyes, the skin is very susceptible to irritation. We recommend using only eye-specific low-concentration retinol always topped with HA for hydration. Some individuals just cannot tolerate retinol bases around the eyes, this is where Plated Eye Serum used with HA overtop can be a great option to maintain a youthful look to your under eyes.
What age should I start using eye cream?
Start in your 20s for prevention, as collagen dips begin then—Alastin’s Restorative Eye Treatment is perfect for young skin. By 30s-40s, shift to Lumeno’s Ultimate Eye Repair and for more mature skin Plated exosomes for cellular repair. At Glō Aesthetics we tailor by age: early for hydration, later for rejuvenation. It’s never too late—mature skin benefits most from combination therapy to combat and reverse cellular senescence.
Can I put moisturizer over my eye cream?
Yes, we recommend adding layer a moisturizer over your eye treatment to buffer irritation and seal in actives. Lumeno’s Pure Hyaluronic Acid or Alastin’s Restorative Eye is perfect, drawing moisture to plump the area. To reap the maximum benefits of your skincare routine, it’s best to apply eye-specific treatment before moisturizer, this ensures targeted ingredients absorb without dilution. Start with Plated exosomes or Lumeno Ultimate Eye Repair, gently apply your eye cream, then seal with Lumeno’s Pure Hyaluronic Acid or Alastin’s Restorative Eye Cream. This “sandwich” method enhances retinol’s efficacy by 20-30% while minimizing flaking.
Serums
What is a serum?
By definition, serums are a type of skincare formulation applied after cleansing and before moisturizing to target specific skin care concerns. Generally lightweight and fast-absorbing with a liquid-based texture, skin care serums help amplify results without a ‘layered’ or ‘heavy’ feel. Serums deliver concentrated actives to treat specific issues. Our Lumeno Vita CE 20% Serum and Plated Eye Serum exemplify this, delivering concentrated nutrients where facial products alone fall short.
What is a serum most often used for?
Serums are most often used to address aging (fine lines, elasticity), pigmentation (dark spots, melasma), and hydration (dryness, dullness). Our Plated Intense Serum with exosomes targets cellular senescence in mature skin, while Lumeno’s Pure Hyaluronic Acid hydrates and evens tone. These are go-tos for personalized concerns, from acne scars to post-procedure recovery.
What is the difference between a serum and cream or lotion moisturizer?
Serums are lightweight, active-rich liquids designed for penetration to treat specific issues, while creams or lotions are thicker, occlusive moisturizers that hydrate and seal. Serums target and moisturizers lock-in and protect, creating a synergistic effect for all skin types.
What serums are best for dry skin?
For dry skin, opt for hydrating serums like Lumeno’s Pure Hyaluronic Acid serum or Alastin’s HA Renew Serum, packed with hyaluronic acid for deep moisture, or Lumeno’s Phyto-Antioxidant Serum with botanical humectants to soothe and plump. We have restored barrier function in patients with flaky, tight skin, pairing with a rich cream for lasting relief, especially in Wisconsin’s dry winters.
Can I use a serum if I have oily skin?
Yes, serums are ideal for oily skin when lightweight and non-comedogenic—try Lumeno’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum or Alastin’s ALuminate Serum for brightening without clogging. At Glō Aesthetics, our dermatologists recommend these for oily patients to hydrate and address texture, ensuring a matte finish without heaviness or clogging of pores.
What is the best vitamin C serum for my skin?
The best vitamin C serum is Lumeno’s Vita CE 20% Serum, featuring stable 20% vitamin C with vitamin E and green tea polyphenols for antioxidant power, reducing pigmentation by up to 20% in studies. At Glō Aesthetics it’s our top pick for all skin types, especially melasma-prone patients—apply AM to boost collagen and protect against UV damage.
What is the best hyaluronic acid serum?
For hyaluronic acid, Lumeno’s Pure Hyaluronic Acid serum and Alastin’s HA Renew Serum stands out with multi-weight HA molecules for multi-layer hydration, plumping skin by 15-25% within hours.. We recommend these for dry or aging skin, layer under moisturizer for maximum plumpness without stickiness.
Can I use more than one serum?
Yes, layering serums is effective but need to be layered in the right order to maximize their benefots. Our dermatologists customize combos (e.g., vitamin C + HA) for amplified results, space applications 3-5 minutes apart.
What are the most popular serums?
Our most popular serums are Lumeno’s Vita CE 20% serum for brightening, Lumeno’s Pure Hyaluronic Acid serum for hydration, and Plated Intense Serum for anti-aging with exosomes. At Glō Aesthetics and Highlander Dermatology, these have earned patient loyalty for visible results—vitamin C leads for glow, HA for plumpness, and exosomes for cellular renewal in mature skin.
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