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Skin Rejuvenation and Exosomes: A Systematic Review and Survey of the Current Marketplace
Gabrielle Knauer
*1, Alexander Chang
2, Natalia Mejia
2, Adam Walchak
2, Sameer A. Patel
21Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA; 2Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA
Background: Preclinical studies have demonstrated promising results from exosome therapies for skin rejuvenation including enhanced collagen production, reduced inflammation, and even wound healing. However, a significant gap exists between scientific evidence and marketed clinical applications, underscoring the need for an analysis of the current exosome landscape. This study aims to systematically review and assess the clinical evidence supporting the use of topical exosomes for skin rejuvenation, as well as survey the current market for exosome-based products.
Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed was performed to identify studies evaluating the use of topical exosomes for skin rejuvenation. Retrieved studies were screened by two independent reviewers for relevance, followed by full-text analysis. To complement the systematic review, a Google search was conducted to identify the top 20 commercially available exosome-based skin products. Products were selected based on search result ranking. Product characteristics, claims, and supporting evidence were cataloged and analyzed.
Results: A total of 201 articles (n=201) were identified and reviewed. Nine articles (n=9) were found to discuss topical exosomes for rejuvenation. Eight articles (n=8) studied human-derived exosomes, while one (n=1) studied plant-derived exosomes. Six (n=6) studies mentioned delivery modalities in conjunction with exosome application while three (n=3) studies described topical exosome application alone. Sources of exosomes and delivery modalities varied widely across the literature. Commercially available exosome-based cosmetic products demonstrated similar source variability, with minimal information about exosome isolation methods, processing, and shelf life.
Conclusion: There is a paucity of human studies evaluating topical exosome therapy. While studies describe epidermal changes in response to topical exosome treatment, further research in exosome sourcing and delivery modalities is warranted. Trials comparing sources and adjunctive therapies may help optimize treatment strategies.
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