Exosomes: Revolutionising Aesthetic and Cosmetic Therapeutics

Background: In aesthetics and cosmetic therapeutics, cells in the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis are stimulated, repaired, regenerated and/or replaced to alter skin quality or facial appearance. Conventional cosmetic aesthetic therapies have limitations either in the administration procedure, required technical skill, the lack of sustained efficacy or risk of side effects. Over the last decade, exosomes have revolutionised and challenged conventional cosmetic aesthetic therapies due to their inherent biocompatibility, regenerative potential and ability to deliver paracrine substances, including proteins, lipids, nucleic acids and metabolites, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting skin regeneration. This review outlines recent advances in exosome research for aesthetic and cosmetic applications. It focuses on various types of studied exosomes and explores their mechanistic pathways in treating skin disorders, including hyperpigmentation, ageing, wound healing, scar removal and immune-related dermatoses. Method: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed and ScienceDirect search engines. Relevant studies, including research articles, review articles and clinical trials focusing on exosome-based therapies in aesthetic and cosmetic applications, were screened and evaluated. Result: Findings indicate that milk-derived, phyto-derived and stem cell-derived exosomes demonstrate significant potential for above-skin disorders. Mechanistic studies suggested that exosomes improve skin quality and enhance aesthetic outcomes by inhibiting melanogenesis, promoting collagen production, reducing proinflammatory cytokines and stimulating regeneration. Conclusion: Despite promising results of exosomes in aesthetic and cosmetic therapeutics, standardised procedures for purification, isolation, standardisation and regulatory approval must be established. Nevertheless, to ensure long-term safety and efficacy, more extensive research and clinical trials are still required.