One of the characteristics that sets the LUMEN line of products apart from many others is the fact that our products are pharmaceutically formulated with medical-grade ingredients. These ingredients vary in concentration and strength; their benefits range from soothing to deep exfoliation and wrinkle reduction.

Due to the nature of medical-grade skincare products, it is not uncommon for patients to experience certain reactions while adjusting to these ingredients. While some of these reactions are to be expected, others can point towards a sensitivity to certain products that should be avoided based on your specific skin type and needs.

In this blog, we will discuss some of the more common reactions to skincare products and how to discern negative side effects from temporary discomfort.

Slight Redness, Irritation, or Dryness

For patients with dry or sensitive skin or for patients who are trying skin brighteners or exfoliants for the first time, this can be a very common reaction to certain products. Some ingredients, such as retinol (or retinoic acid / vitamin A) are known to cause redness and irritation in first-time users. This reaction is entirely normal and lessens over time with continued use. Once the skin becomes acclimated to this ingredient's rejuvenating and resurfacing properties, users can often increase the product use rate or even switch to products that contain higher concentrations.

A good example of this is can be found in two of our most favorite products: Microencapsulated Ret50 and Microencapsulated Ret100. Both products contain the same formula, with the exception of their concentrations of retinol. Ret50 contains 0.5% retinol, and Ret100 contains 1.0%. Clients who experience prolonged discomfort with the Ret100 product can switch to Ret50 until their symptoms subside. Conversely, if users are not seeing the results they wish to see while using Ret50, they might consider increasing their retinol use and opting for Ret100.

Other products, such as Vit C with Ferulic (which contains a strong dose of vitamin C to brighten the complexion and smooth skin texture) or Luminous Cream (which offers exfoliating and melanin-inhibiting benefits and can be compounded with vitamin A for stronger skin-smoothing results) can also cause some temporary irritation and should be avoided by patients with sensitive or post-procedure skin.

Increased Acne Breakouts and Oiliness

Occasionally, products can cause breakouts in the skin and even increase oil production. These reactions are typically signs of incompatibility with certain ingredients and should be avoided, especially by patients with chronic acne. But keep in mind that some LUMEN products—particularly moisturizers—contain active hydrating ingredients that can feel oily upon application but will soak into the skin to reveal a healthy and smooth complexion.

When to Stop Product Use

As a general rule, unless specifically instructed by your skincare professional to keep using a product, you should discontinue using any product that causes swelling, pain, extreme tenderness, or discoloration, as these can be signs of allergic reactions. When in doubt, contact a LUMEN skincare professional by calling 843-252-0037.