Platelet-Derived Exosomes: What they are, how they help skin — and why (plated)™ is getting attention
Exosomes have shot to the front of aesthetic medicine and advanced skincare conversations in the last few years. If you’ve heard buzzwords like “cell signaling,” “regenerative,” or “trillions of vesicles” and wondered what that actually means for your skin, this post breaks it down — in plain language — and looks specifically at (plated)™ Skin Science, one of the first topical lines built around platelet-derived exosomes.
What are exosomes (and why “platelet-derived” matters)
Exosomes are tiny, membrane-bound vesicles that cells release to communicate with each other. They carry proteins, enzymes, growth factors and bits of RNA — molecular instructions that tell recipient cells how to behave (for example: repair, reduce inflammation, make collagen). In regenerative medicine these natural “messengers” are interesting because they can trigger tissue repair pathways without transplanting whole cells. Byrdie
Platelet-derived exosomes are made from platelets (the same blood component involved in clotting and wound healing). Platelets are rich in growth factors, so exosomes sourced from platelets carry a particularly potent cargo of regenerative signals — the reason many clinicians are excited about them for skin rejuvenation and wound repair. ( plated )™ Skin Science+1
What platelet-derived exosomes can do for skin
Based on early clinical studies and clinical reports, topical or procedure-adjunct exosomes appear to help in several ways:
Calm inflammation and reduce redness. Exosomes carry anti-inflammatory signals that can reduce redness and irritative responses after procedures or in chronic inflammatory conditions. Mayo Clinic+1
Support collagen and extracellular matrix remodeling. The growth factors and signaling molecules in platelet exosomes can stimulate fibroblasts and help rebuild structural proteins (collagen, elastin), improving firmness and fine lines over time. PMC
Improve texture, tone, and pigmentation. Clinical observations and early trials report improvements in overall skin tone, reduction in brown spots, and smoother texture after regular use. Mayo Clinic Store+1
Enhance recovery after in-office treatments. Applied after microneedling, lasers, or peels, exosomes appear to speed healing and reduce downtime compared with standard post-procedure care. Byrdie
Important caveat: the field is still evolving. While multiple studies and clinical reports are promising, exosome research is newer than decades-old ingredients like retinoids or vitamin C — and not all exosome products are created equal. Byrdie
What makes (plated)™ different
(plated)™ Skin Science markets itself as the first topical product line that harnesses platelet-derived exosomes in an at-home serum format. A few notable claims and features the brand highlights:
Renewosome™ technology: (plated) calls its platform “Renewosome™” and says each full-size bottle contains over a trillion platelet-derived exosomes to deliver a high dose of regenerative signaling with daily use. ( plated )™ Skin Science+1
Clinical testing and results: (plated) points to clinical results showing reductions in redness, improvements in tone/texture, and decreased appearance of brown spots with consistent use (their INTENSE serum is positioned as the higher-concentration formula). Independent outlets (including Mayo Clinic summaries and coverage in mainstream media) have discussed clinical data showing meaningful improvements after weeks of topical use. ( plated )™ Skin Science+2Mayo Clinic+2
Formulation approach: (plated) combines exosomes with supporting actives (peptides, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, amino acids) so the serums act as regeneration + hydration + antioxidant protection in one product — intended to replace or consolidate multiple steps in a regimen. ( plated )™ Skin Science
All of that helps explain why clinicians and practices are offering (plated) as an in-office add-on (post-microneedling, post-laser) and why it’s being sold as a daily at-home serum.
Evidence snapshot — what the studies say
A 2023 randomized/clinical-type study (and follow-up reports) suggested topical platelet extracts or exosome preparations can improve skin parameters such as texture and reduce inflammatory markers compared with control treatments. While promising, many of these studies are small or manufacturer-supported and longer, independent trials would strengthen conclusions. PMC+1
Media coverage (Time, Mayo Clinic summaries) has highlighted early clinical improvements using platelet exosomes topically — especially for redness, pigmentation and recovery after procedures — which helps drive clinical adoption and consumer interest. TIME+1
In short: evidence is encouraging, especially for procedure recovery and anti-inflammatory effects, but we don’t yet have the large-scale, long-term datasets that exist for older, established cosmeceuticals.
Practical notes for patients & providers
Topical vs. injectable: (plated) focuses on topical serums. That’s different from platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections or some exosome injections used in clinics. Topicals aim to deliver signaling molecules without needles; injectables act more directly but come with different risks and regulations. ( plated )™ Skin Science+1
Use after procedures: Many providers apply exosomes immediately after microneedling or lasers to accelerate healing. If you’re having in-office treatments, ask whether your provider offers (plated) or similar exosome protocols. The Naderi Center
Patch-test and provider guidance: Because exosomes are biologic-derived, it’s prudent to patch test new products and consult your clinician if you have autoimmune conditions or active infections.
Shelf-stability & authenticity: Because exosome technology is new and compelling, counterfeit or low-quality products may appear on the market. Buy through reputable channels and look for documentation on source material, concentration, and storage requirements. (plated) publishes product science and clinical summaries on its site and lists clinical partners and authorized distributors. ( plated )™ Skin Science+1
Bottom line
Platelet-derived exosomes represent a promising regenerative ingredient for skin: they bring biologic signaling that can reduce inflammation, support collagen remodeling, and accelerate recovery when used topically or as a clinic adjunct. (plated)™ has positioned itself as a market leader by packaging platelet exosomes in stable, clinic-grade serums (Renewosome™) and pointing to clinical data showing improvements in redness, tone and texture. That combination of biologic rationale + early positive clinical results is why both providers and patients are paying attention. ( plated )™ Skin Science+1
If you’re curious about trying exosomes, talk with your aesthetic provider first — ask about products versus in-office protocols, look for published clinical data or third-party testing, and choose reputable suppliers. Science is moving quickly here; the next few years will bring larger trials that clarify exactly how best to use this new class of regenerative ingredients.
