Exosomes

Exosome therapy is rapidly becoming a game-changer in the world of aesthetic treatments, offering a cutting-edge approach to skin rejuvenation and healing. These tiny, naturally occurring vesicles, secreted by mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), facilitate powerful communication by transferring bioactive molecules. There are a few other forms of exosomes, including cancer cell-derived exosomes, tumor cells, dendritic cells, and endothelial cells. Still, mesenchymal stem cells are the most commonly used in aesthetic and regenerative medicine.

What Are Exosomes?

Stem cell-derived exosomes encourage cell-to-cell communication by transferring proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, which are known as bioactive molecules. This transfer from donor target cells to recipient cells affects various physiological processes, including:

• Enhancing collagen synthesis
• Cell migration
• Re-epithelialization (wound resurfacing)
• Elastin expression
• Angiogenesis (blood vessel formation)

Additionally, by targeting multiple genes, exosomes derived form stem cells help regulate key biological processes, including inflammation, cell proliferation (cell reproduction), and apoptosis (cellular death).

Do Exosomes Work?

The use of exosomes in plastic surgery is relatively recent. One of the first studies was published in the journal Nature in 2016.  The following year, one of the earliest studies for the use of exosomes for aesthetic applications and wound healing was published. 

More recent studies have demonstrated the use of exosomes as adjunct or stand-alone treatments in cosmetic procedures. Kwon, et. al. documented its efficacy after CO2 laser skin resurfacing for acne scarring.  The exosome-treated sides showed greater improvement in scar reduction, faster recovery, and reduced redness compared to the control sides. 

In aesthetic procedures, Park, et. al. showed that the use of an adipose stem cell derived exosome solution resulted in more significant wrinkle reduction, improvement in elasticity, hydration and reduction in pigmentation when used prior to microneedling.  Non-controlled studies have even documented the impact of topical exosome serums in improving photodamaged skin. 

A study from the Mayo Clinic, which spanned a long period of time and included expert evaluations and skin biopsies, found that exosome treatments improved skin tone, brightness, and pigmentation while also increasing collagen levels.

Who Can Benefit from Exosome Treatment?

Exosome therapy is suitable for a wide range of individuals looking to improve their skin’s appearance and health. Patients experiencing signs of aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of elasticity, can benefit from exosome treatments, especially when combined with procedures like microneedling or resurfacing. Exosomes can also be highly effective for those suffering from acne scars or other skin imperfections. These non-invasive treatments are suitable for most skin types and can help individuals achieve a more youthful, radiant complexion.

How Are Exosomes Used in a Procedure?

Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes are applied topically or through injection, depending on the specific treatment and desired outcomes. When combined with resurfacing procedures, exosomes help reduce downtime, minimize redness, and ease discomfort during the healing process. For microneedling, exosomes are utilized to promote skin rejuvenation, stimulate collagen production, and enhance the overall tone and texture of the skin.

Additionally, we offer topical exosome creams as part of our skin care treatments. These serums are specifically designed to enhance pigmentation, tone, and texture while also providing hydration and anti-aging benefits. By incorporating exosome therapy into our treatments, we can deliver more effective, long-lasting results for our patients.

Results and Recovery

Our own experience is similar to those studies listed above.  We find that exosomes used in conjunctions with our resurfacing procedures decreases recovery, erythema (redness) and discomfort.  In addition, patients who have used our topical exosome cream similarly report improvement in skin pigmentation, tone and texture.

About Dr. Rothaus

Kenneth O. Rothaus, MD is a board-certified Manhattan and Westchester plastic surgeon offering cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for the face, breast, body, and skin. Educated at Yale College and Harvard Medical School, Dr. Rothaus’ general and plastic surgery training was at the Columbia and Cornell campuses of the New York Presbyterian Hospital. Dr. Rothaus values the wants and needs of his patients and strives to give them the best experience possible.

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