Longevity & Aging

Exosome skin treatments show early promise but rest on thin, low-quality evidence

Exosomes, tiny vesicles released by cells, are being marketed for skin rejuvenation, scarring, hair loss, and inflammatory skin disease. Lab studies suggest they can activate skin repair, but the human evidence has been unclear. This scoping review searched major databases, trial registries, and grey literature and found 17 human studies from 2020 to 2025. Most used exosomes from mesenchymal stem cells, applied topically, with microneedling, with fractional CO2 laser, or by injection. About 76% of studies reported improvements in wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, hydration, or scars. Adverse events were uncommon but included granulomas, tissue necrosis, and allergic reactions after injection. The authors conclude the therapies show promise, but small samples, short follow-up, non-randomized or single-arm designs, and possible conflicts of interest limit confidence in the results.