Regenerative Skincare Technologies Derived From Human Fibroblasts: Growth Factors and Exosomes for Transformative Outcomes

BACKGROUND Since the early 2000s, human fibroblast conditioned media (HFCM) has been used in topical growth factor skincare to support skin regeneration and skin rejuvenation. Human fibroblast conditioned media contains the fibroblast secretome including growth factors as well as exosomes. The potential benefits of topically applied exosomes are gaining interest in the medical aesthetic field. OBJECTIVE This article aims to summarize the preclinical and clinical data available on regenerative HFCM-based topical skincare with a focus on studies investigating products applied to improve overall facial skin rejuvenation and/or after in-office cosmetic procedures. In addition, available data on fibroblast-derived exosomes will be covered. METHODS A focused literature review was conducted to provide an overview of evidence on HFCM-based topical skincare. RESULTS Human fibroblast conditioned media–based skincare significantly reduces signs of skin aging including photodamage, coarse lines and wrinkles, and sagging. After in-office cosmetic procedures, HFCM-based skincare can stimulate skin recovery and reduce downtime as well as provide skin quality benefits to enhance overall treatment outcomes. Application of purified exosomes from HFCM also demonstrated significant improvements in multiple skin aging parameters. CONCLUSION Human fibroblast conditioned media combines naturally secreted fibroblast-derived growth factors and exosomes that stimulate skin regeneration and rejuvenation as evidenced by a variety of assays and assessments including in vitro preclinical studies, clinical investigator grading, instrumentation measurements, biopsy analyses, and patient-reported outcomes.