Tested for you: Active Glow “ILLUMIntense Cream” and “ILLUMIntense Serum” by QMS Medicosmetics

“Glow” has become a rather overused buzzword in skincare. But what exactly is a glow? A makeup product that you simply apply to the skin? Certainly not. That kind of glow, if it works at all, is only temporary and disappears as soon as you remove your makeup. A skin’s true glow comes from within. It refers to a natural, healthy radiance that makes the complexion look even, plump, and vibrant. So it’s not an artificial sheen, but the result of optimal hydration, a well-functioning skin barrier, a balanced microbiome, and sufficient blood circulation. Only then is light reflected from the skin’s surface—which is what we perceive as a glow.

Glow comes from within

Ultimately, it is the visible result of biological processes that makes the skin glow. That is why it is important to ensure a healthy skin barrier, a balanced microbiome, and optimal hydration. This involves not only drinking enough water but also ensuring that the skin tissue can retain moisture. And that, in turn, requires a healthy skin barrier.

The skin’s microbiome must also be in balance. This complex ecosystem of microorganisms supports the skin’s natural regeneration, reduces irritation, and promotes a more even complexion. Various active ingredients, such as high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, plant extracts, and essential vitamins—like vitamin C—also enhance the skin’s radiance.

Combat a dull complexion

That’s the focus of the Active Glow collection from QMS Medicosmetics. It features scientifically backed formulas that specifically target the signs of aging and fatigue by providing intense hydration and restoring radiance to a tired complexion. It’s also designed to improve skin elasticity and smooth out imperfections.

I selected two products from the line to test:

Active Glow ILLUMIntense Serum

It is designed to refine the skin’s texture, provide intense hydration, and boost collagen and hyaluronic acid production. Antioxidant ingredients are used to protect against cellular damage and hyperpigmentation:

• Hordeum Vulgare Extract (barley) enhances the skin’s radiance and reduces hyperpigmentation.
• Alteromonas Ferment Extract smooths fine lines (crow’s feet) and forehead lines. It is even said to reduce those difficult, hidden wrinkles that only appear when smiling or frowning.
• Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (a vitamin C derivative) protects against light-induced damage and improves skin firmness.

Active Glow ILLUMIntense Serum by QMS Medicosmetics, 30 ml, 75 euros

Active Glow ILLUMIntense Cream

The cream enhances the serum’s effects by providing intense, long-lasting hydration and strengthening the skin’s protective barrier. It reduces light-induced hyperpigmentation and prevents new brown spots from forming; collagen synthesis is stimulated, which also helps reduce fine lines.

The key active ingredients: hydrolyzed glycosaminoglycans and five hyaluronic acids with varying molecular weights to reduce the signs of aging. Hordeum vulgare extract improves radiance and reduces hyperpigmentation. Punica granatum seed extract enhances the skin’s luminosity, evens out skin tone, and protects against oxidative stress following sun exposure.

Active Glow ILLUMIntense Cream by QMS Medicosmetics, 50 ml, 86 euros

My Review on serum and cream

I apply the serum to my face and neck in the morning and evening, then gently massage it in. The product comes out of the dispenser as a white liquid, but spreads easily and evenly to become transparent. It absorbs quickly into the skin. Still, I wait several minutes—usually while I brush my teeth—before applying the cream. The cream is also white, but slightly richer than the serum. It is absorbed just as quickly by the skin and immediately leaves a subtle, soft glow.

I find both products extremely pleasant not only because of their texture, but also because of their delicate scent. I simply prefer it when facial care products don’t smell so medical and sterile. But that’s a matter of taste. The fact is that with regular use of Active Glow, the skin is significantly better hydrated, thanks to hyaluronic acids and hydrolyzed glycosaminoglycans (moisture-binding, plant-derived active ingredients), which together provide intense hydration. Don’t forget to always finish every daytime skincare routine by applying sunscreen.