Written by Allison Goins, Ph.D. | Published on February 17^th at 12:00 pm

The world of skincare is filled with buzzwords and promises, and recently, exosome skincare products have taken center stage. But what exactly are exosomes, and can they truly deliver youthful, radiant skin?

This article dives deep into the science behind exosome skincare products, explores some popular products, and arms you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about incorporating exosomes into your at-home skincare routine.

What are Exosomes?

If you are looking for exosome skincare products you may be super familiar with them and can skip down to the list. But if you have only heard the word and all the amazing things do keep reading to learn exactly what they are.

Jump to the Esosome Skincare Products Round-Up

Exosomes are like little packages that cells can drop off to other cells filled with goodies. The goodies in these microscopic packages can be molecules like DNA, RNA, or proteins. Specifically in your skin, this can be helpful because it can trigger your skin cells to make the important structural proteins like collagen and elastin or it can encourage your cells to divide and produce new cells.

In this way, exosomes are very similar to growth factors, which is another skincare actives that is gaining popularity.

Related Post: Is a Growth Factor Serum in Skincare Hype or Helpful?

However, exosomes are even smaller than growth factors and this makes them more exciting in topical applications because they have the potential to actually penetrate the skin barrier; unlike topical growth factors.

These are important functions in skincare because they can help keep your skin looking youthful and also help you fight stubborn hyperpigmentation.

Related Post: Understanding the Science Behind Aging in Skin: Tips for Youthful Glow

So it makes sense that exosome skincare products are gaining popularity because they have the potential to address some of the most common skincare challenges that people deal with.

The Hype and the Science of Exosome Skincare Products

Exosome research is exciting, with potential applications in various fields, including medicine and skincare. However, the science surrounding exosome skincare products is still in its early stages.

Recently one of the companies on this list was awarded a patent for their technology, and they are working their way through the FDA approvals process. So while some studies and news show promise for exosome skincare products, more robust clinical trials are needed to definitively determine their efficacy and long-term safety.

Related Post: Topical Exosomes for Glowing Skin – Hype or Helpful?

What Should You Look For When Choosing an Exosome Serum?

So, should you jump on the exosome bandwagon? Before you invest, consider these factors:

Price of Exosome Skincare Products

Exosome are a very new technology in the world of skincare and this means that exosome skincare products are going to be more expensive and ranging from $200 to $500. Weigh the cost against the potential benefits and your budget. Additionally, it’s a good idea to consider alternate treatments that are also at this price point, and probably have a bit more data behind them.

The Source of the Exosomes

Not all exosome products or sources are created equal. Look for brands that disclose the source and processing methods of their exosomes. Avoid products with exaggerated claims or unsupported scientific evidence. When you are visiting the brand websites look for the ones that have clinical data. And remember clinicals that actually include measurements versus consumer perception are even stronger evidence.

Make Sure it ACTUALLY Fits Your Skincare Needs. 

While exosomes show promise for various concerns, consult a dermatologist to determine if they address your specific needs.

Exosome Skincare Products Available Today

Dp Derm’s EXO-SKIN EXOSOME THERAPY

This serum boasts mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes and hydrating ingredients. While the lack of refrigeration requirement is convenient, the price tag is hefty. On their website, Dp Derm claims this product will provide “intense hydration, improved skin texture and tone.” I think all of these claims are fair, and it is great they are not making any drug claims about the product’s ability to alter your skin structure or control cellular behavior. However, for those benefits, you can probably achieve a similar result with a serum that is a tenth of the price.

• Price: $299.00
• Exosome Source: Mesenchymal stem cells
• Other Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, panthenol, copper peptides, botanical blend
• Evidence: No clinical data, before-and-after images only

(plated) Skin Science’s Daily Serum

This platelet-derived exosome serum utilizes their proprietary Renewosome Technology. While clinical trial data is limited, the technology’s pursuit of FDA approval holds promise. (plated) positions their product as an anti-aging exosome serum; so it makes sense their primary claim is about reducing fine lines and wrinkles. This is a compliant claim, and it is great to see although they are working their way through the FDA approval process they are not jumping the gun with their marketing claims. If I was going to purchase an exosome serum this is one of the products I would be willing to invest in.

• Price: $277.00
• Exosome Source: Human platelets
• Other Ingredients: Purified water, glycerin, panthenol, hyaluronic acid
• Evidence: Before-and-after images and technology in development but no data on efficacy yet.

ELEVAI Skincare’s ELEVAI enfinity

This in-home product is backed by patent protection and clinical data showcasing results in 8-16 weeks. However, the ingredient list is extensive and might raise concerns for those with sensitive skin. ELEVAI’s product is another one of the anti-aging specific products. So it makes sense the primary claims are the product can reduce wrinkles, improve firmness, and brighten skin. This product not only has exosomes but is also packed with peptides so this is the other exosome serum that I would be willing to splurge on. It also has clinical data that backs up the marketing claims, which helps you feel more confident in the purchase.

• Price: $299.00
• Exosome Source: Human umbilical mesenchymal stem cells
• Other Ingredients: Peptides, vitamins, ceramides, antioxidants
• Evidence: Before-and-after images and clinical data showing improvement after 8-16 weeks

Isomers Skincare’s Isomer LX: Diamond Peptide Exosome Perfecting Serum

This plant-based exosome serum features a unique ingredient blend. However, the lack of clarity on the exosome source and limited data raise questions. Isomer Skincare is one of the few companies that has a plant-based exosome serum on the market today. Plant-based stem cells and biologics are common in skincare, but there is not really any scientific evidence that says they work. So while Isomer claims this product can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve elasticity, and brighten skin I would be a little skeptical of the marketing claims and price tag of this product.

• Price: $232.00
• Exosome Source: Plant-based
• Other Ingredients: Peptides, diamond powder, plant extracts
• Evidence: No clinical data or independent verification of plant-based exosomes

Dr. Barbara Sturm‘s EXOSO-METIC FACE SERUM

This high-end serum boasts customer testimonials and data from a consumer perception study. However, the limited clinical data and high price point warrant further consideration. The marketing claims say the product can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve firmness, and hydrate skin. These are all fair claims, however with the clinical data being limited to a consumer perception study, and this being the most expensive exosome serum on the list I might be hesitant to purchase it.

• Price: $535.00
• Exosome Source: Syntheticall Lab Synthezied
• Other Ingredients: Peptides, vitamins, antioxidants
• Evidence: Customer testimonials and a consumer perception study with limited data

Epi.logic Skincare’s MASTER PLAN

This product utilizes human stem cell conditioned media and claims improved hydration and firmness based on clinical studies. Epi.logic claims the product improves hydration, firmness, and elasticity. These are pretty generic claims, but with the clinical trials not only asking consumer perception questions but also actual measurements I would be will to take a chance on this exosome serum.

• Price: $230.00
• Exosome Source: Human stem cell-conditioned media
• Other Ingredients: Peptides, hyaluronic acid, plant extracts
• Evidence: Clinical data from a 4-week study with 33 participants

Angela Caglia Skincare’s Cell Forté Serum powered by BIOMSC | Peptides

This serum utilizes human adipose-derived stem cell conditioned media and boasts clinical results from a consumer perception study. However, the high price and focus on peptides might overshadow the exosome claims. This brand claims the product reduces wrinkles, improves firmness, and brightens skin. And they have consumer perception clincals to back it up. So it might be worth trying the product. Out of all of the products that are on the list it would not be my first choice because there are some that are more affordable with stronger data. However all and all not a bad option.

• Price: $395.00
• Exosome Source: Human adipose-derived stem cell conditioned media
• Other Ingredients: Peptides, vitamins, amino acids
• Evidence: Consumer perception study with 39 women over 28 days

Exosome skincare holds promise but proceed with caution. Do your research, prioritize independent clinical data, and consult a dermatologist before incorporating these products into your routine. By remaining informed and making well-considered choices, you can confidently navigate the world of exosome skincare.

Let me know in the comments if you are planning on trying one of the exosome serums on the list; or if there is another one that you are using and love.

The post 7 Exosome Skincare Products: Decoding the Marketing Claims first appeared on Relatable Science.