Exosome Skincare 101: Benefits, Side Effects, and How to Choose the Best Exosome Serum

 

The skincare world loves a shiny new ingredient, but most fade as quickly as they arrive. Exosome skincare is the rare exception. With solid science and proven staying power, exosomes are redefining what’s possible for the appearance of more youthful, resilient, healthier-looking skin—with powerful benefits that go far beyond the trend cycle.

These nano-sized vesicles contain peptides, antioxidants, and phosphoproteins that can help skin look smoother, brighter, and more youthful. That is why leading researchers and dermatologists are calling them one of the most exciting advancements in anti-aging today.

The real buzz isn’t just hype; it’s the incredible ability that exosome skincare has to truly reprogram the appearance of the skin. Fine lines, dullness, dark spots, thinning hair, and loss of elasticity all originate from tiny changes happening on the surface of our skin every day. Exosomes speak the love language of skin, reducing their appearance.

Not all exosomes live up to this potential, though. When it comes to exosome skincare, the source, type, and extraction method make all the difference. Platelet-derived exosomes are the gold standard for exosome skincare—and they are only found in the advanced serums from ( plated )™ Skin Science. Backed by 20-plus years of science and more than 10 published peer-reviewed studies, and recommended by many of the nation’s top dermatologists and aesthetic professionals, they’re uniquely proven to visibly deliver younger-, healthier-looking results. 

What’s more, the proprietary extraction process that powers ( plated )™ Skin Science  preserves their potency, delivering the kind of outcomes that plant- or animal-derived exosomes simply can’t touch.  And why waste your time (or money) on creams and potions that make promises without the proof?

In this guide, we break down what exosomes are, the different types you will see in exosome skincare, and how to identify the serums that actually create visible, lasting results. 

What Are Exosomes?

Exosomes are nano-sized vesicles that exist in astonishing numbers. In fact, scientists estimate that there are roughly 35 quintillion of them in the human body at any given moment. That’s such a staggering figure it can be hard to wrap your head around—35 quintillion seconds would add up to more than a trillion years. Simply put, exosomes are among the most abundant natural particles found in our biology.

Even though exosomes are everywhere, they are incredibly small. Because of their size, researchers didn’t identify them until the early 1980s, and at first many thought they were nothing more than cellular “dust.” It wasn’t until the late 1980s that Dr. Rose M. Johnston introduced the term exosome and recognized that these tiny vesicles were far more significant than originally believed. That realization opened the door to an entirely new area of science.

Once exosomes were acknowledged as more than scientific debris, researchers began exploring their diverse presence across the body. Today, they are understood as naturally occurring vesicles present in blood, tissue, saliva, and countless other environments. Each source of exosomes carries its own unique profile, and that profile determines how useful it may be in different areas of aesthetics. This understanding laid the groundwork for exploring how exosomes could one day contribute to skincare innovation.

Exosomes can come from many places, but not all sources are equally relevant when it comes to visible skin renewal. Plant exosomes, for example, may have antioxidants from fruits and vegetables, but they often don’t work with human skin in a meaningful way—like receiving an email written in a language you don’t understand. Animal exosomes, such as those from cows or pigs, are somewhat closer but still not the right fit, since their “dialect” isn’t identical to ours. Lab-created exosomes can be inconsistent, as well. 

Among all the options, platelet-derived exosomes stand out for their relevance and reliability. Platelets are the body’s natural first responders to the site of need, and their exosomes have a rich blend of peptides, phosphoproteins, and antioxidants that support visible skin renewal. Unlike plant, animal, or lab-grown alternatives, platelet-derived exosomes have been studied extensively and are produced through patented processes that ensure consistency and purity. In a market crowded with exosome products, platelet-derived exosomes offer a level of trust and clinical validation that others simply cannot match.

Get a deeper understanding of what exosomes are here. 

What Is Exosome Skincare?

Exosome skincare is one of the most talked-about innovations in aesthetics today, with new products entering the market almost daily. There are all types of exosome serums, but very few are backed by scientific evidence and clinical data to prove true change when it comes to the appearance of our skin. 

Exosome skincare marks a shift in how we think about how skincare works. Most serums ask you to play skincare whack-a-mole—one for the appearance of wrinkles, another for dark spots, another for hydration. Mix them together and you risk irritation instead of improvement. 

Instead of “correcting” a single issue (like an acid might help smooth the texture of skin specifically), exosomes promise all-around visible renewal. When sourced properly, exosomes have the power to work with our skin to refresh its appearance itself, rewinding to a younger look. This means they can address many skin concerns at one time minus the negative side effects that layering can bring. 

Best Exosomes for Skincare

Exosomes can come from many sources and are processed in different ways. Many top skincare scientists and dermatologists believe that the best exosomes for skincare are platelet-derived exosomes. Unlike plant- or animal-derived alternatives, platelet-derived exosomes have been extensively studied for use in aesthetics. 

Backed by more than 20 years of scientific research, exosomes that come from platelets contain a concentrated blend of peptides, phosphoproteins, and antioxidants that are known to support visible improvements in skin’s look and feel. Clinical research has shown that platelet-derived exosomes can improve the appearance of skin texture, reduce the look of fine lines, and restore a radiant, healthier-looking glow.

Platelet-derived exosomes are available from ( plated )™ Skin Science where they are produced through a proprietary process developed by top researchers out of Rochester, Minnesota. This ensures that exosomes stay intact. When exosomes are intact or “whole” (rather than fragmented or slurried), they can actually work to deliver appearance-transforming benefits to your skin. 

Think of it like an egg, if an exosome says whole with its protective outer shell intact, it stays fresh with all of its goodies inside preserved and ready to go to work for your skin’s look. If it’s cracked or broken, much of what makes it valuable can be lost—leaving you with something far less effective. That’s why choosing a serum made with intact, verified exosomes is so important for seeing results.

In a crowded exosome skincare landscape, platelet-derived exosomes rise above the noise by offering reliability, scientific validation, and results you can actually see. Far more than a passing trend, they represent a breakthrough approach to visible renewal and a next-generation foundation for modern skincare.

Exosomes vs Stem Cells…What’s The Difference? 

Stem cells have long captured attention in science because of their unique potential. Often described as the body’s appearance building blocks, they have been widely studied in fields focused on science. But while fascinating, stem cells are not a practical option for everyday skincare. They require complex handling, specialized storage, and advanced delivery methods—all of which make them unsuitable for something as simple as a daily serum.

Exosomes, however, offer a breakthrough that brings this science closer to the skincare world. These nano-sized vesicles can be sourced in a way that preserves valuable components like peptides, phosphoproteins, and antioxidants—all known to support the look of younger, healthier skin. Unlike stem cells, exosomes can be stable, accessible, and integrate seamlessly into topical formulations without raising ethical or handling concerns.

For skincare, this means the benefits of advanced science can be delivered in a form designed for everyday use. Clinical research has shown that platelet-derived exosomes in particular can visibly improve texture, reduce the look of fine lines, and restore radiance. By bringing this innovation into a topical formula, exosome skincare products make it possible to experience results that go beyond what traditional ingredients can offer.

That’s why platelet-derived exosomes from ( plated )™ Skin Science are often referred to as the new frontier in aesthetics. They take the precision of cutting-edge science and translate it into a safe, effective, and accessible form that can elevate your daily skincare routine and help restore a healthier-looking glow.

What Are Exosome Serums and How Do They Work? 

Exosome serums are the cornerstone of exosome skincare—and they are quickly becoming one of the most talked-about innovations in aesthetics today. Advanced exosome formulas use nano-sized particles to give your skin renewing ingredients that can transform the look of wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, rough texture, uneven skin tone, redness, and more. 

But here’s the catch: not all exosome serums are created equal. Some are carefully studied, sourced with precision, and formulated to deliver real cosmetic benefits. Others, however, may be poorly sourced, unstable, or simply lack the research to back up their claims, which means they may not live up to the hype.

How to Choose an Exosome Serum

Exosome skincare is gaining momentum fast—but with so many products claiming to have “breakthrough” science, it can be tough to separate what’s truly effective from what’s just a buzzword. Here are three simple ways to cut through the noise and feel confident in your choice.

• Know the Source
  Not all exosomes are the same. Some come from plants or animals, while others are human-derived. The source matters, especially when it comes to aesthetics. Look for brands that are clear about where their exosomes come from and how they are processed. If the source isn’t transparent, that’s a red flag.

• Confirm They’re Really There
  Some products talk about exosomes without actually containing them. See whether the company verifies the presence of intact exosomes through recognized testing methods. If a brand can’t provide that information, chances are the product may be leaning more on marketing than science.

• Look for Published Science
  Real innovation is backed by research. The best exosome serums have been studied in peer-reviewed journals or independent evaluations—not just white papers or marketing slides. If a product hasn’t been tested or published in some form of study, it’s probably not ready to deliver meaningful results.

At the end of the day, choosing an exosome serum comes down to transparency, testing, and trust. By paying attention to source, presence, and proof, you’ll be better equipped to find a formula that actually lives up to the promise of exosome skincare.

Best Exosome Serums 

Platelet-derived exosome serums are trusted by thousands of dermatologists and aesthetic professionals for their ability to reprogram the appearance of aging skin and deliver visible renewal. Here’s a look at serums powered by platelet-derived exosomes: 

 

 

INTENSE Serum

The most intensive platelet-derived exosome serum for aging skin, INTENSE Serum combats visible signs of aging and damage with the concentrated power of 1+ trillion platelet-derived exosomes in every bottle. With visible results in as little as 6 weeks of use, INTENSE is clinically proven to:

• Visibly smooth and reverse the look of wrinkles and fine lines 

• Even the appearance of dark spots and discoloration for a more luminous complexion 

• Support the skin’s natural renewal system to improve the look of elasticity, bounce, and firmness

DAILY Serum

A hydrating exosome serum for all skin types, DAILY Serum is for those looking for the glowy, glass-skin look. DAILY Serum offers everyday renewal, while helping to strengthen the look of your skin barrier, and keep skin looking fresh and luminous — all while protecting against future signs of aging. DAILY Serum is clinically proven to: 

• Significantly minimize the appearance of wrinkles, redness, and brown spots

• Deliver consistent gentle renewal to protect against future damage. 

• Restore the appearance of bounce with a dewy radiance 

EYE Serum

Formulated with a high concentration of exosomes, EYE Serum is designed specifically for the delicate skin around the eyes — an area known to show signs of aging faster than the rest of the face. The result is a breakthrough approach for brighter eyes. EYE Serum is clinically proven to:

• Fade the look of dark circles and discoloration

• Reduce the appearance of puffy eye bags

• Smooth the look of under-eye wrinkles, fine lines, and crow’s feet

• Help lift the appearance of excess skin and hooded eyes 

HAIR Serum

For those struggling with the look of thinning hair, HAIR Serum harnesses the power of platelet-derived exosomes to make hair appear thicker, fuller, and healthier. With a weightless, invisible-dry finish, it’s easy to incorporate into any routine. HAIR Serum is clinically proven to: 

• Reduce the appearance of shedding and breakage

• Deliver powerful nutrients to the scalp, increasing the appearance of density, thickness, and fullness

• Hydrate the scalp for the appearance of greater volume and natural shine

What Are the Side Effects of Exosome Serums? 

One of the best things about exosome serums is that despite their incredible anti-aging power, they are remarkably gentle. Clinical studies show that most people tolerate them extremely well, with almost no side effects reported. Some users may notice mild, temporary redness or a slight tingle, but this typically goes away. 

Exosomes are not harsh chemicals or acids. Unlike strong retinols or exfoliating acids, they are not designed to strip, burn, or irritate the skin. Instead, platelet-derived exosomes gently help support natural skin renewal. 

Who should still check in with a dermatologist before they get started with exosomes? Anyone with active skin infections, open wounds, or known allergies to product ingredients should play it safe. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should also consult a medical professional before trying new treatments. 

Benefits of Exosomes Compared to ‘Traditional’ Skincare Ingredients

Exosomes deliver multiple renewing factors in a single product. Traditional ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, or peptides often target one aspect of aging at a time. Exosomes multitask, providing broader and deeper benefits, making them a powerhouse for anyone looking to simplify their routine without losing efficacy. 

Are Exosomes Better Than Retinol? 

Skincare lovers might want to understand if exosomes are really better than retinol. The answer depends on what you’re looking for. Exosomes and retinol are both backed by clinical data to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and skin texture—but the similarities stop there. 

Exosomes are naturally occurring particles in our bodies that speak the love language of skin to help it visibly renew. Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A, a part of a group of compounds known as retinoids. While platelet-derived exosomes are carefully extracted from human platelets sourced from FDA-regulated blood banks, retinol is made in a lab through a series of chemical reactions. What’s more, retinol has been used and studied in skincare dating back to the 1970s, while platelet-derived exosomes are a new, breakthrough treatment developed in the 2020s. 

If you are looking for a novel, science-forward approach to skincare and reprogramming the appearance of youthful skin, exosomes may be a better choice. However, the good news is that you don’t have to choose. You can use both. 

Some dermatology experts suggest that exosome skincare can help complement the effects of other ingredients, including retinol. For best results, apply your ( plated )™ Skin Science exosome serum first, on clean, product-free skin. Allow it to absorb fully — usually about 2 to 5 minutes — before layering on the rest of your routine. Once dry, you can follow with your other favorites such as retinol, vitamin C, moisturizer, or sunscreen, knowing your serum has already gone to work.

Are Exosomes Creams and Exosome Serums Worth It? 

If you want to experience true visible skin renewal, exosomes serums may be worth it to you. When you purchase an exosome serum, cheaper does not mean better. In fact, inexpensive exosome serums can waste your time and money if they are not backed by science and lack proof of intact exosomes in their products. It’s possible with some “exosome” serums, you’re not getting any visible renewing effect from exosomes at all. 

Because platelet-derived exosome serums are sourced from FDA-compliant blood banks and extracted through a highly technical process, there is no way to produce them at a drugstore price. But you can rest assured that you’re spending on true clinically validated science with the promise of visible results. 

What’s an Exosome Skincare Routine

1. Cleanser: Start with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to cleanse and hydrate the skin. 

2. INTENSE Serum or DAILY Serum: Apply 1–2 pumps to clean skin, allowing a couple of minutes to absorb. Platelet-derived exosome serums simplify your routine by combining the benefits of multiple serums into one step for all-around anti-aging and healthier-looking, more radiant skin.

3. EYE Serum: Follow with EYE Serum to deliver the renewing power of platelet-derived exosomes in a next-generation formula designed to help the delicate skin around the eyes look tighter, brighter, and more even. 

4. Apply additional targeted serums such as retinoids if desired, but only after the exosome serum dries down to maximize absorption.

5. Moisturizer: Seal in hydration and support the skin barrier.

6. Sunscreen: In the morning, finish with broad-spectrum SPF to protect against UV damage.

Exosome Skincare: The Bottom Line 

If you’ve made it this far, one thing should be clear: exosomes aren’t just hype; they are a true leap forward in skincare science. 

These tiny, platelet-derived vesicles pack a powerhouse of renewing factors that work to help your skin look smoother, brighter, and healthier. Unlike single-action ingredients like retinol or vitamin C, exosomes deliver multiple benefits at once, meaning you can simplify your routine without sacrificing results. One serum can replace several targeted products, meaning fewer bottles, less clutter, and a simpler routine without sacrificing results.

Exosomes stand out because they support your skin’s natural repair processes rather than just masking the signs of aging. They address the root skin aging to help skin’s appearance bounce back from environmental stressors like UV exposure and pollution. They are gentle, well-tolerated, and designed for even sensitive skin, so layering is safe and irritation is minimal.

For anyone looking for visible results without harsh chemicals or complicated routines, exosomes offer a unique blend of science-backed efficacy and practical usability.

There may not be a magic wand for anti-aging, but platelet-derived exosome serums are among the most exciting tools in modern skincare. They bring advanced science into a simple, safe, and clinically supported form, giving your skin the boost it needs to look and feel its best every day. For anyone ready to simplify, streamline, and supercharge their routine, exosomes may very well be the game-changing solution you’ve been searching for.

SOURCES 

Proffer, S. L., Paradise, C. R., DeGrazia, E., Halaas, Y., Durairaj, K. K., Somenek, M., Sivly, A., Boon, A. J., Behfar, A., & Wyles, S. P. (2022). Efficacy and Tolerability of Topical Platelet Exosomes for Skin Rejuvenation: Six-Week Results. Aesthetic surgery journal, 42(10), 1185–1193. 

Wyles, S. P., Yu, G. T., Gold, M., & Behfar, A. (2024). Topical Platelet Exosomes Reduce Senescence Signaling in Human Skin: An Exploratory Prospective Trial. Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.], 50(11S), S160–S165.