Exosomes are small, naturally occurring, nano-sized vesicles that encapsulate ingredients in skincare formulations to help penetrate the skin and deliver a greater dose of active hero ingredients. Not only can exosomes penetrate deeper into the skin than active ingredients alone, but they also serve as a shield that hero ingredient.
Exosomes have also been proven to stay active at the target site longer, increasing bioavailability and the likelihood that the active ingredient it carries will be delivered. Longer exposure, greater absorption.
How can exosomes improve a skincare formula?
When exosomes are paired with hero ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, or hyaluronic acid, they amplify the benefits on the skin. By improving ingredient delivery, exosomes can reduce the required concentration of potent hero ingredients, which can help minimize irritation with strong actives like retinoids or acids.
Exosomes can amplify the features of active hero ingredients in high-performance formulations. Moreover, exosome use can help maximize hero ingredient effectiveness with lower percentages of ingredient use.
At the same time, many exosomes have their own skin-enhancing features like increasing skin firmness and elasticity, boosting collagen production, and promoting healing.
What are the best sources of exosomes for skincare?
Exosomes can come from a variety of sources. Typically, natural, plant-derived exosomes are the most recognized in skincare, with sources like aloe vera, turmeric, and various fruits. These sources provide antioxidant properties that slow signs of aging, provide anti-inflammatory benefits to soothe irritated skin and help with acne, as well as hydrate the skin and strengthen the skin barrier. Exosomes can also be derived from animal and stem cell sources.
Understanding the outcomes and working with trained chemists, like the team at FP Labs, can find the right exosome product for your brand to make the most of your hero ingredients in your formulation.
