This note offers general guidance on a medical topic and is not a substitute for care from your doctor, dermatologist or specialist team. Please follow their advice first, and talk to them before changing your routine or booking a treatment. Read our full disclaimer.
Exosomes are one of the fastest-moving areas in aesthetics. These aren't cells themselves, but rather microscopic, nano-sized extracellular vesicles—essentially tiny messengers naturally secreted by various cell types. They carry a complex cargo of growth factors, lipids, proteins and genetic material such as RNA. Their role is to carry signals from one cell to another.
Why They're Used
In the studio, exosomes are applied straight after microneedling, into the freshly created micro-channels, to support the look of calm, healthy skin as it settles. Over a course of treatments, clients can see a visible improvement in tone, texture, firmness and radiance, and a softer look to fine lines, scarring and pigmentation. Results vary, and much of the research is still early.
Ask what you're getting. Exosomes can come from human, animal or plant cells, and quality varies widely. The rules differ by country, too. In Australia, human-derived exosomes are regulated by the TGA as biologicals, not cosmetics. In the UK and EU, cosmetics can't contain ingredients of human origin. In the US, no exosome product is FDA-approved. The exosomes we use are not derived from human cells.
Exosomes are versatile, and can be used alongside other treatments for concerns including fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, uneven texture, pigmentation and scars.
Expected Downtime
Exosome treatments themselves typically involve no downtime. When applied topically, there's generally no associated recovery period. If combined with procedures that create micro-channels in the skin (like microneedling or certain laser treatments), any downtime experienced would primarily be attributed to that accompanying procedure rather than the exosomes themselves. Some temporary redness or mild swelling at the treatment site may occur, but these effects usually subside within 24-48 hours. If you're pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, check with your doctor or midwife before any in-clinic treatment.
Recommended Usage
Exosomes are often incorporated into treatment protocols to enhance the results of other regenerative therapies. They can be applied topically in serums or creams, or infused into the skin following procedures like microneedling, which creates micro-channels for deeper penetration. The exact frequency and number of treatments will vary based on individual skin concerns and the comprehensive treatment plan devised by your dermal therapist.
Not every treatment described in our Notes is offered at every studio, and some aren't available in the US. See your studio's menu for what's offered where.
