What are exosomes?
What are exosomes?
Exosomes are tiny particles released by different cells into the bloodstream. They carry proteins, lipids, growth factors, and DNA that can be relayed to other cells and reprogram their bioactive compounds, therefore playing a crucial role in intracellular communication. Extensive research into exosomes has shown that their role goes beyond cellular waste removal, as they act as messengers, tissue reshape and play a major role in protein synthesis, which have been found to be particularly beneficial within skin care.
Exosomes for skin
Exosome therapy can treat:
- Fine lines & wrinkles
- Skin laxity
- Hyperpigmentation
- Inflammation
- Uneven skin tone & texture
- Hair loss
The role of exosomes in aesthetics has become increasingly popular as an antiaging treatment due to its highly rejuvenating benefits. Exosomes in the human body begin to deplete as you age and become less effective, as the cells needed to maintain healthy, youthful skin produce a reduced number of proteins and enzymes. This is exhibited through the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin. Treatments that use exosomes help address ageing concerns, amongst others, by enhancing the body’s natural regenerative process through signaling inactive and unhealthy cells. As a result, they produce new proteins, boost collagen and elastin, accelerate wound healing and tissue repair, decrease melanin production, improve skin quality and enhance skin elasticity and firmness. The small molecular size of exosomes allows for direct contact with other cells and deeper penetration within the skin’s layers. Fibroblasts are activated as they are absorbed by cells, producing up to 600% collagen and 300% elastin.
Exosome therapy has been connected to hair growth benefits. It stimulates hair follicles to regenerate and regrow while reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are key factors in hair loss.
How does exosome therapy work?
Exosomes can be combined with injectables or microneedling procedures. Injectables allow for direct contact with the dermis and epidermis, whereas microneedling involves the application of the exosomes as a serum onto the skin straight after creating punctures. The micro-punctures created by the microneedling pen allow the exosomes to penetrate and be fully absorbed by the skin. Additionally, due to their wound-healing properties, they reduce downtime and, for this reason, can complement heat-based skin treatments for post-procedure use.
