ReLuma Skin Illuminating Anti-aging Serum- reviewed and recommended
It is more than two years since I first tried ReLuma Skin Illuminating Anti-aging Serum and although the results were really good, I finished the bottle, moved on to something new and then it was suddenly the end of 2010. When Invitrx, the makers of ReLuma contacted me to tell me that they had slightly modified the serum’s formula and expanded the line (to include lash and hair growth products amongst other things) I was curious as to whether I would be reunited with the love of my life or it would be more like going one the those excruciating dates with someone that you broke up with long ago for a good reason. Well, ReLuma is back in my life and staying in it. This is quite possibly the best anti-wrinkle serum ever.
ReLuma has, after about five weeks, had a very noticeable impact on deeper wrinkles – more than any other serum I have tried. My crow’s feet are fading, some cross-hatching that has been emerging (due to sleeping on my side and I was getting scared that they were not only permanent but getting worse), and the lines around my mouth are diminishing. For that latter, I give thanks to team work from ReLuma and Your Best Face Define. In general, my skin looks plump and in really good condition.
Now, there are some things I should make clear. First, ReLuma takes some time to kick in. I remembered this from when I tried it a couple of years ago, so I was prepared to wait it out. And I mean wait it out: for at least three weeks, nothing seemed to be happening at all and then I gradually became aware that I was looking really well. Secondly, do not buy ReLuma if you don’t have wrinkles. This is a product that repairs damage.
ReLuma’s formula is deceptively simple. In fact, it is based on human conditioned media and ReLuma has quite a complex combination of what are essentially proteins. As we age, the critical proteins for healthy skin start to decline. These proteins and growth factors can be isolated as PDGF, VEGF, FGF, IGF3 and TGF-B. Of these, TGF-B is thought to be the most important because its signals are recognized by the majority of cells. TGF-B expression is also induced during wound healing and studies show that it can increase collagen and fibronectin. Meanwhile, PDGF “increases the rate of cellularity and granulation in tissue formation through increased fibroblast function“.
Although PDGF, VEGF, FGF, IGF3 and TGF-B all do their own thing, it is the combination of them that is supposed to get results. For example, in order for TGF-b to stimulate fibroblast cell growth, the presence of PDGF is required. In all, ReLuma has nine different human cytokines in the human fibroblast conditioned media.
ReLuma tells me that they have been improving the technology behind the conditioned media. The current Reluma formulation is based on a blend of Invitrx's three cell technologies: a new stem cell technology ,iPS (Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell). Alongside iPS, they mix Adipose derived stem cell and, thirdly, the Dermal Fibroblast Conditioned Media that was the original formula.
The human conditioned media is rounded out with some vitamin B. ReLuma’s new formula is much pleasanter to use than the old one, which I found a bit tacky. The preservatives have been modified as well. Now only phenoxyethanol is used. This can be an irritant and may be toxic, but my relatively sensitive skin has had no adverse reactions to ReLuma.
ReLuma is a high end serum and costs $145 for 20ml or $220 for 30ml. I have just put them in the TIA shop.
Ingredients
Human Adipose Derived Stem Cell Conditioned Media, Water, Glycerin, Sodium PCA, DL-Panthenol, Hydroxy Ethyl Cellulose, Allantoin, Phenoxyethanol.
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Hey Marta,
I was wondering if you have tried the Osmosis Growth Factor Serum. It also uses growth factors from Adult Adipose tissue. It is also a lot cheaper. My skin is not ready for something like this, just wondering about the price difference?
Thanks for the great review!
Erica
Posted on March 7, 2011 at 11:22 am
I haven't tried the Osmosis. However, I think Invitrx would say that ReLuma is differentiated by having so many different growth factors. It would be interesting to compare.
Posted on March 7, 2011 at 11:58 am
Hi Marta,
Just wondering if you think this serum would work well on the chest as well. I have some wrinkles developing there and would love to find something that would help with that.
Thanks!
Posted on March 7, 2011 at 12:37 pm
Hi Kelly - yes I would think it would work on the chest, or wrinkles whereever. I forgot to mention that a little goes a long way as well.
Posted on March 7, 2011 at 2:01 pm
Marta - Are you putting ReLuma on the entire undereye area or just the outer corners where crows feet form?
Posted on March 7, 2011 at 3:17 pm
do you use this morning or night?
Posted on March 7, 2011 at 3:48 pm
Marta, please comment and kill 3 birds with one stone (me, Jaysie and Betty). Are you using E'shee on those crows feet with the Reluma? Are you using Reluma once or twice a day? What are you putting over the Reluma? The moisturizer is so fab on it's own that I ordered the serum which should arrive any day, Wish I would of waited since you're giving 20% OFF!
Posted on March 7, 2011 at 8:54 pm
Hi Marta,
I am a relatively new devotee and subscriber to your site. Over the last 5 months I have ordered several products off your 5 best lists and have been delighted with the difference they have made in my skin. Its almost time for me to reorder my E'shee and I was wondering if you considered ReLuma equivalent or better for softening vertical lip lines, deep expression lines and overall sun damaged skin?
Thanks!
Posted on March 8, 2011 at 5:01 am
Suz, I knew I was going to get the E'shee vs ReLuma question. They are both very good products and both use growth factors (although different ones). I am not using anything over ReLuma. Although I've just started to experiment with Cosmedix. At the end of the day, ReLuma is better value. Suz, if I were you I would try ReLuma and then in the future stick with the one that works best for you. We're all different.
Junko I'm sorry about the discount. Perhaps you could return it? Anyway, hopefully you'll like it so much that you'll buy another. It sounds as if we should get the moisturizer in too since you think its "fab" - can't wait for more details!
Posted on March 8, 2011 at 5:20 am
Hi Betty - just mornings. I don't really do creams at night. Just some LED light with YBF Concentrates 2-3 times a week.
Jaysie, hi. I've been using ReLuma for the outer under eye area, but not right below the lashes (I've been using eye cream there).
Posted on March 8, 2011 at 5:27 am
Hi Marta ~ No question, just a comment...wow! I'm in 4th semester college and YOU my dear would give my classes a run for their tuition $$...I had to re-read this article just make sure I got it. You amaze and impress...just to bring up an old idea ~ WHY are you not on the Dr. Oz show??? I just watched his segment on skin sabotagers, it was akin to kindergarten ~ HA!
Posted on March 8, 2011 at 9:08 am
Hi Marta, Tomorrow is my last observation in Pelleve clinical trial and I'm ready to get my lotions and potions fix. I never thought withdrawal would be so painful. My question is: what is the difference between Reluma and my beloved, but budget busting AG Skin Serum? My best to you, dear. You are making a huge contribution to womankind with this site.
Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:27 am
Hi Bess, your question could stir up a bit of hornet's nest because I believe that the AG people and ReLuma people used to work together. All I can say is that I've tried both and prefer the ReLuma. But if you are loving AG you should stick with it. And thank you for your kind words, but it is the community (you and all the others) that are really making a contribution to womanhood. We are reframing the notion of beauty as we age beautifully. How cool is that!
Posted on March 8, 2011 at 10:52 am
Hi Marta, I love your site and am currently loving the YBF products. ReLuma sounds great, but I have some concerns about the human conditioned media. Do I understand correctly that this product contains human stem cells? If so, how do we know it is disease free and safe? Sorry if this is a really basic question, but I can't be the only one wondering???
Posted on March 9, 2011 at 7:28 am
Hi Denise, it is my understanding that it doesn't contain human stem cells. The original - progenitor - cell did. But will have been cloned many times in a laboratory. Conditioned media is, in fact, the solution (sugars, amino acids and such) that is put in the petri dish in which the cloned cells are grown. The cells secrete stuff or release it when they die and these proteins are then gathered up and put to use ReLuma.
Posted on March 9, 2011 at 7:37 am
Hi Marta,
One question: Are you still using Correct?
Thanks for a great review!
Posted on March 9, 2011 at 10:54 am
Hi Susan, I've been using Sarah Chapman's eye cream. But this morning, I actually thought to myself that I am missing Correct. I'll do an updated "what I am using now" very soon.
Posted on March 9, 2011 at 12:07 pm
Dear Marta,
How would the Reluma serum compare to M Lab's serum which I recall you finding uite worthy some time ago. Thank you for all the time & effort in providing the best to all of us.
Posted on March 9, 2011 at 12:13 pm
Hi Sly, I don't think I have tried M Lab's serum. Although if you can point me in the direction of a review that I have somehow forgotten, please do.
Posted on March 9, 2011 at 12:18 pm
Hi
Do you know the stemulance or stemoxyl
These products with stem cells.
I saw differents right video and review on this brand
Thanks Marta
Posted on March 9, 2011 at 12:42 pm
Hi Celine, I tried to take a look but couldn't find the ingredients list for Stemulence. If you have it please share. Thanks
Posted on March 10, 2011 at 8:53 am
Hi Marta,
You should really look into comparing the ReLuma with the Osmosis Stem Factor. The Osmosis has over 100 growth factors in it. I actually just ordered it before seeing this review. So it would be great to know which one is better :-)
Posted on March 10, 2011 at 1:00 pm
100 growth factors? Are there that many in existence? But I agree that I should try it - and will.
Posted on March 10, 2011 at 1:33 pm
hi, Marta
if you knew, let's say, 10 years ago, what you know now about the products, devices, etc. - what would you recommend for prevention and early treatment of "lines"? i.e. Aurora and Reluma,, etc.
thank you!
Posted on March 10, 2011 at 4:35 pm
Marta
I think just about every serum I have tried has caused me to break out (or did nothing to improve my skin). My most recent disappointment was Osmosis Replenish. I was so hopeful that it was NOT the culprit for the attack on my face but, alas it was :( I am SO frustrated with this "adult" (I'm 54) acne! I'd love to try Reluma but am hesitant to spend that much on yet another product I can not use! Any thoughts?
Posted on March 10, 2011 at 5:17 pm
Lori, Maybe my skin is similar to yours? Serums are 50/50 for me and normally MOST all 'moisturizers' (meaning anything heavier than a serum) will break me out. I've got a review coming soon to Marta for the Reluma Moisturizer and it's grand (3 weeks, not a pimple or cyst in sight)! I've got the serum on order...if you hold tight for a couple of weeks, I'll be able to post on whether that caused any eruptions or not.
Posted on March 10, 2011 at 7:13 pm
Hi Lori, several people have complained about Replenish. I think they changed the formula. I'm going to stop selling it. I have a teensy sample size of ReLuma. Not enough to see if it works, but good enough for an allergy test. If want to try, send an email to [email protected] and Preksha will get it out to you on Monday.
Posted on March 11, 2011 at 7:10 am
Great question Oksana and worthy of a more thoughtful post (I will do that). But in the meantime, I think ReLuma will be disappointing for someone who doesn't have wrinkles. These things are more like wound repairers. Much better to focus on antioxidants when you are younger. LED light (such as Aurora) would be great though for getting that collagen going. I'm going to think about this and come up with "preventative" recommendations.
Posted on March 11, 2011 at 7:14 am
thank you, Marta! looking forward to your post. please, include "coppers", as well as AOXs.
Posted on March 11, 2011 at 10:00 am
Hi Marta,
Here is a small blurb that I took regarding the Osmosis Stem Factor:
"Osmosis StemFactor utilizes over 150 different skin growth factors derived from pristine, adult stem cells, this magical serum improves all aspects of aging and skin damage. It gently restores and stimulates the healing process which also includes building collagen and elastin and healing hyperpigmentation.
Key Ingredients: FGF1-9, EGF, HGF, IFN-1, PDGF, VEGF and over 100 more growth factors"
I'm not sure how many "growth factors" there are, but I am definitely hearing more and more about them. I have been doing some research, but so far haven't found anything that says how many growth factors there are. But I am continuing to look :-).
Posted on March 11, 2011 at 10:29 am
@Lori... Just wanted to jump in on the Replenish. I purchased it after hearing the rave reviews on this site about it. I will say that I did have break outs for about 2 weeks (which is not atypical for me when trying anything new on my face). After that initial phase my skin really started to glow. I'm not saying it was a miracle product, but I have been hugely please with the results after the initial "icky" phase.
The Replenish was the first Osmosis product that I tried and I am now on my second bottle of it, and I just ordered the Osmosis Stem Factor too.
Posted on March 11, 2011 at 10:35 am
I just purchased my second order of the Osmosis Replenish, as I have experienced nothing but good things, that I can see, from the product. The two containers I purchased from TIA do have, I believe, and forgive me cuz I don't have the container in front of me, astaxanthin(?), and the formula is a yellowish color, so if that's correct, then the results I'm getting are great. It doesn't irritate my skin at all, I have T-Zone/combination skin and I have to be very careful not to overload my now visible pores with anything too heavy and residual. But this serum has really been working.
That said, I was running low on my Replenish, prior to receiving my order, so I've been alternating with Mad Hippie's Vitamin C Serum as well, of late, and I can't say enough good things about the results I am getting.
I follow up with YBF Antioxidant mixed in with my moisturizer and I wake up with my face all dewy, not sticky, and at 57, I just smile. I'd love to try ReLuma, but the sticker price is a deterrent to me. Unless they give out samples, I'll have to stay with the more affordable products that are, for now, working it out for me.
Now if I can get my thyroid acting right or the right eyelash growth formula for my lashes to work, I'll feel like I'm..........45 again!!!
Posted on March 11, 2011 at 1:24 pm
Hi JustD!
I thought I'd post but for no other reason than to say thank you! I've noticed that you seem to love Antioxidants Concentrate and that always make Kimberley and me smile! I'm glad it's worked well with your other products.
Thank you again & have a great weekend!
-Darrell
Posted on March 11, 2011 at 2:08 pm
Hi Darrell, I can only give credit where it's due, it's a great product IMHO and I'm crazy happy with what it does for me. I'm saving up my quarters to try Correct...but it'll be a minute...or two ;)
Posted on March 11, 2011 at 6:50 pm
Grrrrrrrr, hate when I mistype, 'buy', lol,is of course what my less than nimble fingers meant!
Posted on March 11, 2011 at 6:53 pm
Hi Marta and all! Marta, I absolutely adore your site and your commitment to guiding us through the aging process. Have a quick question pertaining to Replenish: I bought it through TIA shop and now on my second bottle. At first, too, didn't like it, as I thought it wasn't doing anything for me, but now I like it a lot and use it in the am. I'm in my early 30's and don't have many wrinkles, is there another serum you would recommend, since you're going to stop selling replenish in your store? Thanks a lot and keep up amazing work!
Posted on March 16, 2011 at 1:12 am
Hi Xtina - thank you for the kind words. I would heartily recommend Your Best Face Boost. Its a bit more expensive than Replenish at $65, but has great ingredients for 30-somethings wanting to prevent damage
https://truthinaging.com/store/Your-Best-Face-Boost%20?manufacturer_id=21
Cosmedix Affirm is also worth looking at (although the TIA store doesn't sell it) http://truthinaging.com/face/cosmedix-affirm-reviewed-and-recommended
Posted on March 16, 2011 at 9:30 am
For those of you asking how ReLuma differs from the Osmosis Stem Cell product, I think I now have an answer. The current Reluma formulation is based on a blend of Invitrx’s three cell technologies: a new stem cell technology iPS ( Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell) in house. Alongside iPS, they mix Adipose derived stem cell and, thirdly, the Dermal Fibroblast Conditioned Media that was the original formula. I have added this info to the post.
It is my understanding that Osmosis' product has the Adipose as the sole active.
Posted on March 18, 2011 at 9:59 am
Hi Marta, just wondering if you would recommend ReLuma for mild acne scarring(uneven slightly pitted skin)as well as a preventative against new scars. If so, would it be a good idea to use the Aurora after applying the ReLuma?
Thanks
Posted on March 23, 2011 at 9:24 am
Hi Stephanie, I haven't heard specifically of how ReLuma performs for acne scars, but the key ingredient was developed for wound healing so its worth a shot (and some patience - it could take a few months to see results). And with the Aurora (blue light for acne and red for skin plumping), it could be an excellent combination. If you try it, let us know how you get on.
Posted on March 23, 2011 at 9:34 am
Stephanie,
I used the Reluma serum 2x per day for 6 weeks and after the 5th week I noticed the hyperpigmentation in the area of my acne scarring around the corners of my jaw bones were lightening!!! I have tried hydroquinone for these areas in which I had a nasty allergic red bumpy reaction to (used Tri-luma gel). I was shocked and delighted at this unexpected change to my face at age 40. My recommendation, KEEP USING RELUMA on these areas of acne scarring concern!
Posted on March 24, 2011 at 11:20 pm
Marta, do you think this serum would be of good use on the neck?
Posted on April 3, 2011 at 1:08 pm
Hi Susan, yes I think it would be good for the neck and decollete.
Posted on April 3, 2011 at 2:35 pm
Hi Marta:
I guess I don't understand the part about ReLuma not being for those that don't have wrinkles. I don't have any really big wrinkles yet but am 53 and have large pores, etc, and want to try and delay the wrinkles as long as possible so wouldn't the same ingredients really help to repair and help prevent wrinkles?? Or is ReLuma not going to help in prevention (if that is the right word to use) I guess in the question or any lines, even if very tiny?? I guess I figured I still would not want to use what say a 23 year old would since we would still have different skin issues with that age difference lets say. Because I guess it could then be said about a lot of the serums, in that they are for use if you have wrinkles, since so many have similar ingredients??!! Just confused is all.
Posted on April 4, 2011 at 9:11 am
Pam, sorry for the confusion. I made this comment because a friend of mine in her 30s with zero lines bought it (heaven knows why) and then said it didn't do anything for her. I just didn't want lots of younger people to buy it and be disappointed. I think if you are 53 with large pores then you are losing elasticity and I think you will find that ReLuma will help.
Posted on April 4, 2011 at 9:35 am
LOL Marta, that is funny about your friend. No wrinkles and wonders why it did not do anything, LOL. Well, I guess it could help her prevent some, LOL, but if she takes care of her face and stays out of the sun maybe she won't need as much help, LOL.
Anyway, thanks for that info because it gets kind of confusing with what to do. I have always had large pores but I am sure I am by now losing elasticity as you said. I mean it is a little bit better value as you mentioned then Eshee, which I have been trying. I mean, I like Eshee very much but don't know how long I can continue to get it at the prices it is since I use all over my face and not just in spots and my face just soaks it up (may have to try the face brush you mentioned to help with that). I know the ReLuma is expensive too but you get more of it for the price. If they would just put as much in their bottle for the price as they do in ReLuma.
Thanks again for the feedback.
Posted on April 4, 2011 at 10:34 am
Marta - Your rave about ReLuma has caused research burnout for me! I am now lusting after a "stem cell/conditioned media" serum. While I trust your judgment on ReLuma, is there any chance you might be able to publish, in the near future, a general update on the safety, efficacy, and scams related to this ingredient and the key differences in the upscale brands? Maybe there is already a recent post about this on TIA that you can point me to...I'm having computer trouble navigating this site today with lots of page errors. Thanks!
Posted on April 9, 2011 at 2:30 pm
Jaysie, that's a great idea. I'll put together a background post on human fibroblast conditioned meda (and the various derivatives) in the next few days.
Posted on April 10, 2011 at 8:52 am
Jaysie and Marta, looking forward to reading this one too ~
Posted on April 10, 2011 at 10:32 am
I'm so glad we can count on you, Marta! One of the things I've wondered about is whether companies are getting the human media from the same lab and how "clean" it is. I remember when I first heard about TNS years ago my first thought was how do they sterilize the original cells yet maintain the growth factors. Also, as I recall, TNS applied for a patent on their ingredient, so how would that affect a similar ingredient formulated by another company? I think food & drug patents last 7 years before they can become generic, but not sure if this is true of cosmetic "key" ingredients. Thanks for any light you can shed on this!
Posted on April 10, 2011 at 2:38 pm