Exploring Stem Cell Technology in Skincare
There has been a lot of talk in the last few years about stem cells in skincare. So, is it just a lot of hype or is stem cell skincare the next hero in the search for ageless beauty? Let’s investigate.
What Are Stem Cells?
Stem cells are single cells that can replicate themselves and differentiate into many cell types. There are many different types and are found in humans, animals and plants.
Of the various types of human stem cells, perhaps the most well-known, and most controversial, are embryonic stem cells (sometimes called pluripotent stem cells). These are the very first cells at the early stage of the embryo that are able to selectively produce all of the different tissues of the human body. Using embryonic stem cells such as these for skincare is neither recommended nor necessary. After birth, the repairing stem cells of the body (often called Mesenchymal stem cells or MSC’s) continue the work on conducting the repair and rejuvenation of the various structural parts of body tissues (bone, ligaments, muscles, skin, nerve, eye, etc.). They continue this tissue specific work throughout our lives, but, because they differentiate over time into other types of cells, our number of MSC’s decreases as we age. A third type of stem cell, more differentiated and more tissue specific, are often referred to as progenitor cells. They are in the “center” between stem cells and fully differentiated cells.
Like human stem cells, plant stem cells have the ability to self-renew and replace specific plant cells in need of repair. For example, if you break off a plant stem, it grows back within a few weeks thanks to stem cells. That said, unlike human stem cells, the growth factors, cytokines and other proteins, which are the products of plant stem cells, do not have the ability to act in the same way in humans, as in plants. Plant stem cells communicate in a different biochemical “language” that human cells do not recognize. However, plant stem cells do contribute skin-improving nutrients that attribute to overall skin health
Ethical Concerns
One of the biggest concerns people have about stem cells skincare is the ethics involved. As the Chief Technical Officer of Stemology, I have a PhD in bio-ethics. So, ethics are critically important to me personally. There are no actual stem cells or DNA matter in any skincare product claiming stem cell technology. It is in fact the derivatives of the stem cells – the signaling proteins – that are in the formulations. However, how those derivatives are harvested can vary widely by skincare brand. Make sure to do your research when using stem cell skincare and find out where they are getting their stem cell derivatives. And note that Stemology skincare is the first and only skincare line to use both plant stem cells and adult human MSC stem cells, along with a stem cell communicator, to ethically increase the efficacy and effectiveness of our products.
Does It Work?
Yes! There are a number of research papers from doctors and scientists supporting the concept of MSC protein derivatives aiding in skin repair and rejuvenation. And a body of scientific knowledge is rapidly developing which shows the interaction of these growth factors, cytokines, helper proteins, etc in the repair and rejuvenation process for skin. In other parts of the world treatments are actually being done to repair damaged tissue using MSC’s. In fact, the very well respected Journal of Craniofacial Surgery stated “The application of topical growth factors (from MSC) stimulate the repair of facial photo-aging, resulting in new collagen synthesis, epidermal thickening and the clinical appearance of smoother skin with less visible wrinkles.”
Many are saying that stem cell science will completely change medical care, and the skincare industry, as we know it. It’s an exciting time as we are in the infancy stages which means we can look forward to many more advances to come to help as stay naturally younger looking.
To hear the complete presentation of Stem Cells In Skincare: Hero or Hype?, CLICK HERE.
Written By: Dr. Hal Simeroth
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Stemology is a new preferred partner of MedResults Network and Guest Blogger. Members receive discounts and rebates on their unique stem cell-based product line.
