Allow me to introduce you to the newest skin care ingredient to take the beauty world by storm: exosomes. If recent skincare launches are any indication that exosomes are the next big thing, we sat down with a board-certified dermatologist to share what you need to know about the buzzword.
Unlike other plant-based and nature-derived skin care ingredients, exosomes are derived directly from human stem cells. Below, we break down everything from what exosomes actually are, who should use them, how to use them, and even the best skincare products to use.
What are exosomes?
"Exosomes are tiny, nanometer-sized membrane vesicles that are released by many cells in the body and can relay information from one cell to another," says dermatologist Dustin Portella, DO, FAAD. It is derived from human stem cells and can be used in skin care products or applied directly to the skin by injection. According to dermatologist Janet Graf, MD, they're made up of a variety of ingredients, "including peptides, amino acids, lipids, growth factors, and more."
Basically, exosomes are transmitters that "send genetic information and proteins to other cells," says dermatologist Julie E. Rusak, MD, FAAD. They focus on healing and regeneration and use cell-to-cell communication, resulting in regeneration from within. Simply put, exosomes communicate with other cells in the body, find areas that need help, and repair and identify "unhealthy" cells.
Benefits of Exosomes in Skin Care
So, how do exosomes work in the skin? Although exosomes are still in the early stages of research and have been used in over-the-counter skin care products, there are already many benefits to incorporating them into your daily routine. "The primary [skin care] advantages of exosomes are high stability, non-immune rejection and direct stimulation of target cells," states a biomaterials study titled "Crossing the Skin Barrier: An Extrinsic Therapy."
Targeting signs of aging, pigmentation and even rosacea, exosomes can treat a number of issues. "Skin exosomes can also help heal wounds, fight pigmentation, and boost the skin's defenses against free radicals. " In many cases, a dermatologist or esthetician will apply exosomes to the skin. Laser treatment Exosomes are applied topically and by injection: injections are usually reserved for patients seeking help with hair loss, while topical applications can be done in the office or at your home after microneedling.
Again, these are derived from human stem cells taken directly from the bone marrow. "They are small vesicles secreted by stem cells that contain signaling molecules rich in proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates that send signals to surrounding cells and stimulate regeneration. Much of the early research on exosomes came from wound healing, as exosomes promote cell proliferation and regeneration," says Dr. Rasak. It has been shown to help improve
You should also consider an external treatment, which is not topical but given as an injection, usually in a dermatologist's office. This type of treatment is usually reserved for patients with severe hair loss or thinning, which is described in more detail in the Breaking Skin Barriers: Exosome Therapy study.
Who should use exosomes?
Almost everyone is a candidate for exosomes, but those who age (those who want to stop or at least slow down the process) will appreciate the benefits of exosomes and exosome therapy. According to Dr. Portella, "Exosome technology is still in its infancy in skin care. Few high-quality topical formulations are available, and those that are available can be more expensive." So, if you want to spend some money on your earnings (aka your skin), it might be worth it.
Dr. Rasak explains when exosomes can be used: "Exosomes have been shown to stimulate cell proliferation, re-epithelialization, collagen remodeling and hair growth." If you are experiencing hair loss, exosomes may be a good place to start. From thinning hair to complete hair loss, exosomes can stimulate hair growth.
How to use exosomes in skin care
In the past, external treatments were used along with medical treatments, but with recent advancements, there are now home treatment options that are not only safe but also proven to be effective. And if you want to see real, successful results, consider Dr. Graff's advice: "These skin care products must be used regularly to see results, although the exact frequency of using the products varies from person to person, so it's very important to follow the correct product instructions." But most of them require daily use for best results.
If you want to buy some skin care products that use exosomes at home, read on for some tips.
Best products with exosomes
© Getty Image Source: StripesPower Move Strips ($85)
Naomi Watts' Stripes skincare line is an affordable option when it comes to products that use exosomes. Power Move is a hydrating face serum enriched with hyaluronic acid, ectoin and squalene, which work together to treat dull, dry and aging skin. It is ideal for mature skin who want to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Skin Science Daily Lip Serum ($267)
Perfect for everyday use and for all skin types, this enveloping skin serum uses exosomes to subtly even skin tone and texture. Gluten and paraben free, this product says you can expect youthful skin with long-term use.
© Getty Image Credit: Dr. Barbara StromDr. Barbara Storm's Exoso-Metic Facial Serum ($510)
Yes, this serum is pricey, but the real patient results listed on Dr. Storm's website speak for themselves. Gisela E. One reviewer said, "I can already feel and see a huge difference within a week of starting. The skin around my face and jawline is tighter, my complexion has a fresh glow. The serum has made such a big difference. My skin. [I'm using ] Storm products since 2018 and I can promise I will never stop. This serum uses active ingredients including exosomes, vitamin E and bergamot oil, which work together to reduce hyperpigmentation, firming and smoothing the skin.
© Getty Image Credit: DP DermDP Derm Exo-Skin Exosome Therapy ($299)
Skin rejuvenation is central to DP Derm products and is often used by dermatologists after microneedling. It can be used in the comfort of your home to reduce signs of aging and rosacea.