Just when you thought your top shelf couldn’t get more crowded, along comes exosomes—the microscopic skincare messengers that might just outdo your entire routine. Straight from the labs and landing in luxe serums, these cellular overachievers are rewriting the rules of rejuvenation. They’re small (we’re talking teeny), but their impact is massive. If smoother, glowier, more resilient skin is your vibe, it’s time to introduce you to this powerhouse ingredient.

So… what are exosomes?

Let’s get nerdy for a second. Exosomes are nano-sized vesicles your cells naturally release to communicate and regenerate. Think of them as tiny skincare carrier pigeons that deliver instructions from one cell to another, telling your skin how to behave better. In topical form, exosomes are harvested and packaged up in luxe serums or ampoules to repair, rejuvenate, and glow-up your skin from the inside out.

What do they actually do?

In short, everything your skin wishes it was doing already. “Exosomes help stimulate collagen production, accelerate cell turnover, calm inflammation, fade pigmentation, and boost elasticity. The result: skin that looks bouncier, fresher, and noticeably more “Did you sleep 12 hours?” even if you 100% did not,” says Inkey List co-founder Colette Laxton.

Unlike some buzzy ingredient, exosomes are backed by serious science and clinical studies. They’re especially loved in post-procedure skin recovery (think lasers, microneedling) thanks to their regenerative mojo.

Why you’ll love them

If your current skincare routine feels like it’s plateaued, exosomes can give it the little jolt it needs. They’re also friendly to most skin types, including sensitive or reactive complexions, and they complement your existing products too.

These high-performing messengers work well alongside your usual actives—retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide—but with less risk of irritation and more promise of that coveted ‘baby skin, but make it adult’ finish.

Inkey List co-founder Colette Laxton

How to use them

Incorporating exosomes is blissfully simple. They’re usually housed in serums or ampoules—just cleanse, pat dry, and apply your exosome-packed potion as your first step. Let it sink in (these formulas are lightweight and fast absorbing), then follow with moisturiser, SPF, or whatever else your skin is craving, or you enjoy using.

As ever, for best results, consistency is queen. Most products can be used morning or night (or both if you fancy), and you’ll typically start seeing the effects in a few weeks.

The products that bring the exosome energy

Dermalogica Pro Exo Booster

If you’d rather begin experimenting with exosomes in-salon, this professional-grade treatment integrates exosomes to target signs of aging and skin fatigue. You’ll skin will look like glass post treatment.

Book here: www.pro.dermalogica.co.uk

The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.


Want to receive more great articles like this every day? Join our daily email now