What’s are they? 

Exosomes are a microscopic vesicle naturally produced by nearly every cell in the body that play a vital role in cell to cell communication. 

These nano cells are powerhouses are messenger particles packed out with growth factors, proteins, lipids and other bioactive molecules, that naturally release from the cell. By identifying cells in need of repair, they initiate and promote the repair process. This all helps amplify skin penetration and the regenerative processes in the body to revitalise and rejuvenate your skin to get it glowing again. 

Exosomes help with stimulating your fibroblasts to make more collagen and to assist damaged cells in repairing themselves. We are seeing excellent results using them for hair loss treatment and skin rejuvenation with test results showing that exosomes delay the aging process at intercellular level and play an vital role in remodelling the extra cellular matrix, which is a network of proteins and other molecules that surround, support and give structure to cells and tissue in the skin and body.

Exosomes yield results that evoke remarks such as "you look revitalized" rather than "what cosmetic procedures have you undergone?" They enhance the skin's appearance by imparting a fresher, brighter, and smoother complexion, addressing issues such as uneven tone and texture, acne scars, enlarged pores, and wrinkles. Exosomes help stimulate the natural repair mechanisms of skin cells, prompt increased collagen, elastin production as well as hyaluronic acid levels. They have also been shown to mitigate effects of inflammation, expedite wound healing, and reduce irregular pigment production. Making exosomes a very popular complementary treatment option.

Are exosomes similar to stem cells?

Not exactly. Although both exosomes and stem cells are known for their skin rejuvenating properties, exosomes are different in that they are not living cells; as they do not have a nucleus; and can be obtained from various sources. 

Similarly, liposomes, which aid in delivering ingredients into the skin via encapsulation, are simpler structures capable of containing either water-loving or water-hating ingredients.

Do exosomes yield immediate results?

As exosomes stimulate the skin's natural repair processes, noticeable results are not immediate. The most significant improvements typically are seen 3-6 weeks post-treatment, attributable to increased collagen and elastin production. However, their anti-inflammatory properties can swiftly reduce the downtime associated with other cosmetic treatments!

Is exosome treatment painful?

They are administered using a microneedling device, with minimal downtime and very comfortable.

How long do the results of exosome treatments last?

Exosomes are believed to remain active in the skin for up to six to eight months following a treatment course, contributing to sustained improvements in skin quality.

What are the sources of exosomes utilized for skin rejuvenation?

Animal-derived: Derived from colostrum, the initial milk produced by cattle, bovine-derived exosomes have gained traction in aesthetics as a viable alternative to human sources. However, the process of obtaining animal-derived exosomes may compromise vital ingredients such as vitamins and growth factors, necessitating their supplementation. 

Plant-derived: Recognized as the legally acceptable form of exosomes in the UK, plant-derived exosomes are often sourced from roses. However, human cell signaling is more intricate compared to plants, necessitating the combination of multiple plant sources for optimal results.

Human-derived: Most recent research on exosomes has been conducted in countries like Korea, where the use of human-derived exosomes is legal. These exosomes are reported to be the most potent, yielding superior results. However, they also pose ethical concerns due to regulations in the UK regarding human-derived ingredients and the potential risk of DNA contamination. They are often sourced from infants or young individuals. Extensive processing is required to prepare human-derived exosomes for use, often necessitating the addition of key components such as vitamins and growth factors.

​Is the use of human-derived exosomes for skin rejuvenation legal in the UK?

The legality of using human-derived exosomes for skin rejuvenation in the UK is subject to debate. While some practitioners argue that topical application of exosomes is permissible, concerns arise when exosomes are used topically in conjunction with procedures like micro-needling, designed to enhance skincare penetration. Moreover, under UK and European regulations, the use of human-derived ingredients is strictly prohibited, rendering the use of human-derived exosomes illegal, even for topical applications. The ambiguity surrounding this issue underscores the importance of careful consideration before undergoing such treatments.