Hello my friends. I am recently back from Tucson Arizona where I learned about stem cell and exosome therapy. I’m excited to integrate this regenerative therapy into practice. To date, I am able to add stem cells as an IV therapy treatment and exosomes to your microneedling or PRP hair growth treatment. This week we learn a bit about stem cells and exosomes and their role in regenerative medicine. 

Stem cells therapy is considered a regenerative therapy in that it repairs, restores, and regenerates tissues in the body. There are several methods for harvesting stem cells, such as from fat or bone marrow. In my practice, we will be using stem cells ethically harvested from umbilical tissue that are processed in FDA certified labs. This tissue is donated from those who have scheduled c-section births and who are free from communicable disease In the same fashion that the umbilical cord, placenta, and amniotic fluid protect the growing baby and help it thrive, these biological cells have shown to help repair and regenerate damaged tissues in the body.  

How do stem cells work?  Stem cells harvested from umbilical tissue have been shown to act as signaling cells. They basically tell your body to ‘get to work,’ and repair itself. These cells home in on areas of injury or disease and potentiate the secretion of chemicals that support local immunity and regeneration. It is therefore your own cells that construct new tissue! 

Exosomes and the Skin: 

Stem cells, just like all cells, release exosomes to communicate with each other (1). Exosomes are harvested from the umbilical tissue and used therapeutically. Exosomes are vesicles that are produced by cells and they carry important elements like proteins and fat; they are mediators of communication. Exosomes play a role in regenerative skin therapy in that they help restore vascularization. Vascularization is an essential part of healthy skin because it provides nutrients for proper functioning. Several studies exist which prove that exosomes restore vascularization (2). Further, exosomes have been shown to increase collagen and elastin in the skin, and therefore benefit lines and wrinkles (3). And lastly, exosomes can regulate inflammation and be particularly helpful for symptoms associated with atopic dermatitis (4).

It’s important to ensure that the stem cells and exosomes are sourced from a reputable place to avoid unwanted outcomes. We had the opportunity to tour the FDA approved lab in Arizona where I source these materials. A consultation for these therapies is required to ensure candidacy.

I’m continually working to evolve my practice. This means bringing in cutting-edge treatment options and the newest technologies. The services I offer will always be elective, and it brings me great joy to have them as an option. It was a wonderful experience to tour the R3 Regenerative Medicine lab, to be immersed in this field, and to feel confident in sharing these tools with my community. Stay tuned as I learn and share more!