Exosomes in Dermatological Aesthetics & Cosmetic Skin Care

The skin, as the largest organ of the human body, is continuously exposed to external influences and aging processes. Innovative approaches in dermatological aesthetics and skin care increasingly rely on exosomes, which stand out for their regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and communication-enhancing properties.

Exosomes are formed through an intracellular budding process*. They are released by nearly all cell types, measure 30-150 nm in diameter, and transport lipids, nucleic acids, and proteins, which define their biological function [1].

Exosomes act as mediators between cells by transmitting biological signals essential for processes like wound healing, cell migration, and collagen production [2]. The transfer of microRNAs and proteins helps regenerate damaged tissue and improve skin structure.

• Skin regeneration and anti-aging 

Studies show that exosome therapies improve skin elasticity and hydration while reducing inflammation [3]. 

• Hair regeneration 

Exosomes are used to promote hair growth by supporting wound healing and angiogenesis [4]. 

• Lipoproteins and metabolism

Alongside exosomes, lipoproteins (LDL, HDL) play an important role in human metabolism, transporting essential nutrients to cells and skin, supporting regeneration and barrier function [5].

Exosomes belong to the class of nanoparticles and are similar in size to other lipoproteins such as LDL and HDL. Their nanoscale structure facilitates penetration through the skin barrier, making them ideal carriers for active ingredients [6].

The isolation and standardization of exosomes remain technical challenges. However, they hold promising potential for personalized skin care and regenerative medicine [7].

Exosomes in the tHermoCEUTICAL® Quatro Link System: The tHermoCEUTICAL® Quatro Link System is a new and patented process combining exosomes with various biomimetic agents to achieve targeted effects on the skin. This technology enhances the penetration and efficacy of exosome-based skin care.

Plant-derived exosomes, extracted from plant cells, offer promising benefits in skin care. Rich in secondary metabolites, antioxidants, and enzymes, these exosomes exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. For example, green tea or grape-derived exosomes reduce oxidative stress and delay skin aging [7].

Kimchi, a traditional fermented Korean food, is an innovative source of exosomes. These microbial exosomes contain bioactive molecules with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties. Preliminary studies suggest they may alleviate inflammatory skin issues like acne and positively influence the skin microbiome.

Exosomes derived from salmon caviar represent a novel innovation in high-end cosmetics. These exosomes are rich in essential fatty acids, peptides, and proteins, promoting hydration, strengthening the skin barrier, and supporting cell regeneration. Clinical tests show improvements in skin elasticity and reduction in fine lines, making them ideal for anti-aging products.

With the integration of innovative exosome technologies such as the tHermoCEUTICAL® Quatro Link System, plant-derived exosomes, Kimchi exosomes, and salmon caviar exosomes, the possibilities of cosmetic skin care are expanding. These specific applications represent the future of personalized skin care, offering tailored solutions for skin health and aesthetics.

An intracellular budding process is a biological mechanism by which small membrane-bound vesicles are formed within a cell. This process is essential for the formation of exosomes, a subclass of extracellular vesicles critical for cell-to-cell communication.

Formation of the Multivesicular Body (MVB) 

• Exosomes are formed within multivesicular bodies, which are specialized structures within the cell.
• During intracellular budding, portions of the cell membrane fold inward into the lumen of these multivesicular bodies.
• Cellular components such as proteins, lipids, RNA, or microRNA are incorporated into the vesicles during this process. 

Loading with cellular material 

• Specific biomolecules are loaded into the vesicles during the budding process.
• This selection is mediated by complex signaling mechanisms that ensure only specific molecules are included in the exosomes. 

Fusion with the cell membrane 

• Once formed, the multivesicular body fuses with the cell membrane
• The internal vesicles (exosomes) are then released into the extracellular space. 

Release of Exosomes 

• Exosomes are discharged into the surrounding environment, where they can interact with and influence other cells.

• Cell-to-cell communication 

Exosomes transport biomolecules that deliver signals and influence biological functions in target cells. 

• Transport of RNA and proteins 

They enable the transfer of genetic material and proteins essential for developmental processes, immune responses, and tissue regeneration. 

• Diagnostics and therapy 

The budding process makes exosomes ideal candidates for medical applications, such as biomarkers or delivery vehicles for drugs. 

This process demonstrates how cells efficiently package and transmit information to their environment-a central mechanism in the functioning of living systems.

1. Liu Y, Wang H, Wang J (2018) Exosomes as a novel pathway for regulating development and diseases of the skin. Biomed Rep 8: 207-214.
2. Kose O, Botsali A, Çaliskan E. (2022) Role of exosomes in skin diseases. J Cosmet Dermatol 21: 3219-3225.
3. Thakur A, Shah D, Rai D, Parra DC, Pathikonda S, et al. (2023). Therapeutic Values of Exosomes in Cosmetics, Skin Care, Tissue Regeneration, and Dermatological Diseases. Cosmetics 10: 65.
4. Hartman N, Loyal J, Fabi S (2022) Update on Exosomes in Aesthetics. Dermatol Surg 48: 862-865.
5. Yang G, Lee Y, Kang D, Choi E, Nam Y, et al. (2021) Overcome the barriers of the skin: exosome therapy. Biomater Res 25: 22.
6. Miller J, Chen G, Hayag M (2023) A Review of Exosomes in Regenerative Cosmetic Dermatology. Molecular Frontiers Journal.
7. Vyas K, Kaufman J, Munavalli G, Robertson K, Behfar A, et al. (2023). Exosomes: the latest in regenerative aesthetics. Regen Med 18: 181-194.