What are exosomes and why is there interest in them?
Exosomes are microscopic vesicles thought to carry messages between cells. In skin rejuvenation they are being studied in the hope of reproducing some benefits of stem cells without containing cells.
Scientific studies have shown that exosomes can influence processes such as cell growth and collagen production. However, these findings mostly come from laboratory or small clinical studies and may not apply to every product or every person.
Products on the market differ greatly in source (human, animal, plant), purification method and contents. It is not correct to assume that two products with the same name have the same composition.
What do the studies show for skin?
Some small studies report improved skin texture when exosomes are used with procedures such as microneedling, but comparisons are limited and long-term data are scarce.
Some published studies report results similar to better-known approaches such as platelet-rich plasma, but they are small and no conclusion can be drawn about which is better. It is therefore not possible to say with certainty that exosomes add a benefit.
Microneedling can itself improve skin texture. How much of an observed improvement comes from the exosomes and how much from the procedure is not always clear.
What is the regulatory position?
The legal status of exosome products differs by country and product. In many regions, warnings have been issued that human-derived exosome products for injection are not approved.
Some health authorities have warned the public that products containing exosomes may be unapproved biological products. This page does not state a definitive position for Turkey; check the current announcements of the official bodies and ask your physician for documents.
There is an important difference between a cosmetic product applied to the skin and a product that is injected. Because injection passes the skin barrier, the sterility and source of the contents matter much more.
What should be considered for safety?
Documented source, manufacturing conditions, sterility and contents are the key points. Products of unclear origin carry a risk of infection and immune reaction.
Redness, mild swelling and tenderness can occur after application. If you have increasing pain, warmth, discharge, fever or a widespread rash, contact a physician promptly and do not try to manage it yourself.
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, active infection, herpes, immunosuppressive treatment and known allergies usually mean the treatment is postponed or not done. Tell your physician about your health honestly.
Who might it be considered for, and what are the alternatives?
It may be discussed for people who want to support skin texture and quality, if the physician finds it suitable and the product source is transparent. Better-studied alternatives should also be discussed.
Sun protection, retinoids, vitamin C, chemical peels, microneedling and mesotherapy have been used for longer. Which is suitable depends on skin type, goal and general health.
At the consultation Dr. Berktaş assesses methods together with expectations, limits and alternatives. It is sensible to ask whether the person performing the treatment is authorised and to ask for the product documents.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between exosomes and stem cells?
A stem cell is a living cell; an exosome is a tiny non-living vesicle released from a cell.
Do exosome treatments give a certain result?
No. The evidence is limited and the outcome can vary between people and products.
Are exosomes safe?
Safety depends on the source, sterility and conditions of use. Products without documents should be avoided.
Are they applied with microneedling?
Often yes, but because microneedling has an effect of its own, it is hard to separate the contribution.
How many sessions are needed?
There is no standard protocol. Studies have used plans of a few sessions; a personal plan is set with the physician.
Sources (4)
- U.S. FDA: Public Safety Notification on Exosome Products (2019)
- U.S. FDA: Consumer Alert on Regenerative Medicine Products Including Stem Cells and Exosomes (2020)
- Aesthetic Surgery Journal: Exosomes in Aesthetic Medicine: An Overview (2026)
- Aesthetic Plastic Surgery: Exosomes Exposed: Overview Systematic Review on Evidence Versus Expectation in Aesthetic and Regenerative Medicine (2024)
This content is for general information and does not replace a personal medical assessment.