Skincare has come a long way in recent years—from basic moisturizers to high-tech treatments that tap into the body’s natural healing abilities. One of the most talked-about developments lately is exosome therapy. And while the name may sound new to some, exosomes have actually been studied in science and medicine for quite some time. What’s changed is how we’re now applying them in dermatology and aesthetics, especially here in the Philippines.

If you’ve been hearing about exosomes in your clinic or seeing them pop up in skin and hair treatments, you’re not alone. Here’s a practical update on what they are, what they can do, and what’s worth knowing before you try them.

What are exosomes?

In simple terms, exosomes are tiny messengers that help cells talk to each other. Our own cells release them to send signals that can help with healing, reduce inflammation, and encourage regeneration.

In the world of skincare, exosomes can help improve how our skin repairs itself, especially after treatments. They’re not synthetic ingredients as they come from natural sources like blood platelets or stem cells, they’re also packed with growth factors and proteins that promote healthier skin from within.

Topical use after treatments

What’s exciting about exosomes today is how they’re being used after aesthetic procedures. In many skin clinics now, exosome-rich serums are applied right after microneedling, lasers, or radiofrequency treatments. These serums help calm the skin, reduce redness and swelling, and support faster healing.

Some doctors also use exosomes as part of pre-treatment priming, to get the skin in better shape before any procedure. And for those doing regular skincare at home, there are now high-quality serums infused with exosomes that aim to brighten the skin, even out tone, and soften fine lines.

The results? Skin that bounces back more quickly, looks less irritated post-procedure and gradually develops a healthier glow.

Exosomes for hair

Hair treatments are also seeing benefits from exosomes. Clinics are now combining laser or microneedling scalp therapies with exosome application to support healthier, fuller hair growth. Think of it as boosting the scalp’s environment—helping it become more receptive to treatment and encouraging better growth over time.

This is especially promising for men and women who are seeing early signs of hair thinning or want to maintain the results of previous hair treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections.

Exosomes are for cosmetic use only (for now)

Right now, exosome products are only approved for cosmetic use. That means they can help improve how your skin or hair looks—but they can’t be advertised as treatments for skin conditions like eczema, melasma, or hair loss just yet.

There’s a lot of research happening in the medical space—on using exosomes for wound healing, inflammatory conditions, and more—but those applications are still undergoing clinical trials. So, if you see bold medical claims around exosomes, be cautious and always ask your doctor.

Not all exosomes are created equal

Here’s something many people don’t realize. The source of the exosomes matters. Some are derived from platelets, others from umbilical cord tissue, and others from fat, bone marrow—or even plants. And not all of them work the same way.

Right now, the most promising results in skincare come from human-derived exosomes, especially those from platelet or stem-cell sources. These seem to be better understood and better received by our own skin cells.

There’s growing curiosity around plant-based exosomes, but the science still isn’t clear. As a metaphor, I like to explain it this way: Human exosomes speak the same language as your skin. Plant-based ones might be speaking another language—your skin might hear it, but may not fully understand what it’s saying.

A good fit for Filipino and Asian skin

For Filipino and Asian skin types, exosomes can be especially helpful. Our skin is often more prone to sensitivity, redness, and pigmentation—especially after certain procedures. Since exosomes help reduce inflammation and support faster recovery, they can minimize unwanted side effects like prolonged redness or dark spots.

That’s why more local clinics are starting to offer exosomes as part of their treatment packages—not as a gimmick, but as a way to make results smoother, more natural, and more skin-friendly.

 A useful tool, not a miracle cure

Exosomes aren’t magic, and they’re not meant to replace other proven treatments. But they are a smart, science-backed way to support the skin’s healing process and enhance results—whether you’re dealing with aging, pigmentation, dullness, or thinning hair.

Like with any new treatment, it’s important to ask questions. Make sure you’re going to a licensed, well-trained doctor who uses trusted, safe sources for their exosome products.

They’ve been around for a while—but 2025 may be the year that exosomes finally go from behind-the-scenes to a trusted part of your skincare and hair journey.