CosExo™ Exosome-hMSC(Exo-C02)

Benefits of MSC Exosomes in Skincare

Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are a type of multipotent stromal cell known for their ability to differentiate into various cell lineages and contribute significantly to tissue regeneration and immune response modulation. Extensive research indicates that many of the beneficial effects associated with MSCs are mediated through paracrine signaling, involving the release of soluble factors and extracellular vesicles, particularly exosomes. MSC-derived exosomes serve as concentrated packages of the signaling molecules produced by these potent cells. They carry a rich assortment of growth factors, cytokines, and genetic materials that mirror the regenerative capabilities of their parent MSCs. Studies investigating MSC-derived exosomes highlight their potential advantages over the direct use of live cells, particularly in terms of stability and the feasibility of developing innovative cell-free therapeutic approaches.

What Are Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes?

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (hucMSC)-derived exosomes are nano-sized extracellular vesicles secreted by MSCs isolated specifically from the umbilical cord. These exosomes serve as biological messengers, transporting proteins, lipids, cytokines, and genetic materials to target cells, thereby promoting cellular communication and regeneration. Among the diverse sources of mesenchymal stem cells, human umbilical cord-derived MSCs have gained particular scientific attention. The umbilical cord provides a readily available and ethically sound source of MSCs, which exhibit high proliferative capacity and secrete a rich profile of pro-regenerative and immunomodulatory factors. Scientific research has extensively explored the biological cargo within hucMSC exosomes, revealing a potent combination of molecules that support tissue maintenance, repair, and immune modulation. These properties position hucMSC-derived exosomes as promising agents for applications in skincare, and regenerative medicine.

Characterization of hMSC-Derived Exosomes. (A) TEM image of exosomes. (B) Nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) showing particle movement. (C) Western blot detection of exosomal surface markers. (Ye C, et al., 2022)

hucMSC-Derived Exosomes Applications in Skin and Hair Care

• hucMSC Exosomes for Anti-Aging and Skin Regeneration

  Research has explored advanced delivery methods, such as combining hucMSC-derived exosomes with sponge spicules, to enhance skin penetration. In preclinical models of photoaging, this approach was associated with a reduction in visible micro-wrinkles and favorable modulation of extracellular matrix components, promoting the expression of collagen I, elastin, and fibronectin while regulating MMP-1 activity. Additionally, studies suggest that hucMSC-derived exosomes may support epidermal barrier function and influence markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in UV-challenged skin, contributing to improved skin resilience against environmental aggressors.

• hucMSC Exosomes for Sensitive Skin Repair and Barrier Enhancement

  Investigations involving individuals with sensitive skin have reported that topical application of hucMSC-derived exosomes improved both subjective symptoms, such as burning and itching, and objective signs, including roughness, redness, and scaling. Over a course of use, assessments indicated enhanced skin hydration, improved sebum balance, stabilized pH, and reduced transepidermal water loss, reflecting support for restoring a healthy skin barrier. Proposed mechanisms involve the modulation of inflammatory mediators and the promotion of keratinocyte proliferation, both crucial for effective barrier repair.

• Anti-Inflammatory Properties of hucMSC-Derived Exosomes

  Beyond general skin sensitivity, research has explored the potential of hucMSC-derived exosomes to modulate cellular pathways implicated in inflammatory skin responses. Studies have examined their ability to regulate immune cell activity and influence signaling pathways associated with inflammation. Furthermore, investigations suggest that hucMSC-derived exosomes may impact processes related to extracellular matrix remodeling and epithelial-mesenchymal transitions, contributing to improvements in skin texture and overall appearance.

• hucMSC Exosomes for Hair Growth and Follicle Revitalization

  In the field of cosmetic hair care research, hucMSC-derived exosomes are being investigated for their potential to support hair follicle vitality. Findings suggest that these exosomes may positively influence dermal papilla cells (DPCs), which are critical regulators of the hair growth cycle. Studies indicate that hucMSC-derived exosomes can promote DPC proliferation and migration, potentially through activation of pathways such as PI3K/Akt and regulation of proteins including β-catenin and cyclin D1. These insights provide a promising scientific foundation for incorporating hucMSC-derived exosomes into cosmetic formulations aimed at supporting healthy hair growth.

References

1. Zhang K, Yu L, Li F R, et al. Topical application of exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in combination with sponge spicules for treatment of photoaging. International Journal of Nanomedicine. 2020: 2859-2872. https://doi.org/10.2147/ijn.s249751
2. Ye C, Zhang Y, Su Z, et al. hMSC exosomes as a novel treatment for female sensitive skin: An in vivo study. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology. 2022, 10: 1053679. https://doi.org/10.3389/fbioe.2022.1053679
3. Chen X, Wei Q, Sun H, et al. Exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells regulate macrophage polarization to attenuate systemic lupus erythematosus-associated diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in mice. International Journal of Stem Cells. 2021, 14(3): 331-340. https://doi.org/10.15283/ijsc20156
4. Yu Y, Shen L, Xie X, et al. The therapeutic effects of exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells on scleroderma. Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine. 2022: 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13770-021-00405-5
5. Zhang Y, Yan J, Li Z, et al. Exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells alleviate psoriasis-like skin inflammation. Journal of Interferon & Cytokine Research. 2022, 42(1): 8-18. https://doi.org/10.1089/jir.2021.0146
6. Chen Y C, Tsai W C, Li Z X, et al. Exosomes from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells promote the growth of human hair dermal papilla cells. PloS one. 2025, 20(4): e0320154. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0320154

Case Study 1: Research into Topical hMSC Exosomes for Sensitive Skin (Ye C, 2022)

An in vivo study explored the topical application of hMSC exosomes for sensitive skin. Over 28 days, subjects with sensitive skin showed observed improvements in both subjective discomfort (tension, burning, itching) and objective signs (roughness, scales, erythema), alongside a significant decrease in dryness symptoms. Assessments indicated reduced lactic acid stinging test scores, decreased skin redness. Supporting in vitro research also demonstrated the exosomes' capacity to promote fibroblast migration and proliferation. These findings highlight the potential of hMSC exosomes for supporting skin health and addressing characteristics associated with sensitive skin appearance.

Figure 1. hMSC-Exosome Effects on Human Fibroblast Migration. (A) Microscopic images of fibroblast migration with different hMSC-Exo concentrations. (B) Scratch assay showing dose-dependent promotion of fibroblast healing. *p < 0.05, **p < 0.01 vs. NC group.

Figure 2. Assessment of Skin Redness Improvement Over 28 Days. Clinical photographs of volunteer #22 at baseline, 7, 14, and 28 days. Redness visibly improved at day 28 compared to baseline.

Case Study 2: Investigating hucMSC Exosomes and Hair Follicle Cell Activity (Chen Y C, 2025)

An in vitro study explored the effects of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes on human hair dermal papilla cells (HHDPCs), key cells involved in hair growth. The research found that hucMSC exosomes effectively enhanced HHDPC proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner. Further analysis indicated that the exosomes promoted cell cycle progression, increasing cell populations in the S and G2/M phases, and elevated the expression of proteins such as β-catenin and cyclin D1. Mechanistic studies suggested this proliferative effect involves the activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in HHDPCs. These findings provide scientific support for the potential role of hucMSC exosomes in haircare applications aimed at supporting hair follicle vitality by influencing key cellular activities of dermal papilla cells.

Figure 1. hucMSC Exosomes Promote HHDPC Proliferation. HHDPCs were treated with hucMSC Exosomes or minoxidil for 72 hours. hucMSC Exosomes enhanced cell proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner, showing a stronger effect than minoxidil. *p < 0.05 vs. control.

Figure 2. hucMSC Exosomes Promote Cell Cycle Progression in HHDPCs. HHDPCs treated with hucMSC exosomes showed reduced G1 phase population and increased S and G2/M phases, indicating enhanced proliferation. Cell cycle distribution was analyzed by flow cytometry after 48 hours of treatment. *p < 0.05 vs. control.

References

1. Ye C, Zhang Y, Su Z, et al. hMSC exosomes as a novel treatment for female sensitive skin: An in vivo study. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology. 2022, 10: 1053679. https://doi.org/10.3389/fbioe.2022.1053679
2. Chen Y C, Tsai W C, Li Z X, et al. Exosomes from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells promote the growth of human hair dermal papilla cells. PloS one. 2025, 20(4): e0320154. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0320154

• Are hucMSC-derived exosomes safe for cosmetic use?

  Yes, studies indicate that hucMSC-derived exosomes are generally safe for topical application in cosmetics. They exhibit low immunogenicity and are non-tumorigenic, reducing the risk of adverse immune responses. However, it's essential to ensure that products containing these exosomes are manufactured following strict quality control and regulatory standards to guarantee safety and efficacy.

• How are hucMSC-derived exosomes incorporated into skincare products for effective delivery?

  hucMSC-derived exosomes can be integrated into various skincare formulations, such as serums, creams, and masks. For enhanced skin penetration and efficacy, they are often combined with delivery systems like sponge spicules. These methods facilitate deeper absorption into the skin layers, maximizing their regenerative and anti-aging benefits.

• How do hucMSC-derived exosomes compare to other stem cell sources in skincare?

  Compared to exosomes from other stem cell sources, hucMSC-derived exosomes offer several advantages: Ethical sourcing: Umbilical cords are typically discarded after birth, making them a non-invasive and ethically favorable source. High proliferative capacity: hucMSCs can be expanded extensively in culture, yielding a substantial amount of exosomes. Potent bioactive content: They contain a rich array of regenerative and anti-inflammatory molecules beneficial for skin health. These factors contribute to their growing popularity in regenerative skincare formulations.

• How should CosExo™ Exosome-hMSC be stored and handled before use?

  The lyophilized powder should be stored at 4°C, while the frozen liquid form must be kept between -20°C and -80°C. After reconstitution with sterile deionized water, it should be used promptly or stored at 4°C for short periods. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles to maintain exosome integrity and potency.

• What is the intended use of CosExo™ Exosome-hMSC?

  It is strictly intended for laboratory research and industrial manufacturing purposes. It must not be used by individuals to formulate food or cosmetics. Creative Biostructure is not responsible for any consequences resulting from misuse.

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