🧬 Let’s Talk About Exosomes — Exotran by Trandmi

A science-backed guide to understanding exosomes in skincare — and what makes Exotran different

As exosomes gain momentum in the skincare industry, so do questions and concerns. You may have come across claims suggesting that exosomes are unstable, unproven, or not suitable for topical skincare. While curiosity and caution are always healthy, it’s equally important to explore what the science actually shows—especially when it comes to professionally developed formulations like Exotran, sold exclusively by AO Medical.

There’s been a lot of debate lately about exosomes in skincare, and while healthy skepticism is important, much of the viral content misrepresents the actual science.

⚠️ Why the confusion?

A viral video recently cast doubt on exosomes, suggesting:

• Exosomes can’t be stored on shelves unless frozen at –80°C

• They’re illegal or unsafe

• Plant exosomes aren’t real

• There’s no clinical evidence supporting them

Our product, Exotran by Trandmi, is powered by purified umbilical cord–derived exosomes—non-viable, acellular vesicles processed under cosmetic-grade protocols and stabilized through advanced technology that does not require –80°C storage. These exosomes form the foundation of our formula and are supported by two carefully selected plant-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs), added for their complementary antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Unlike overhyped “plant EV” products that rely solely on trendy claims, Exotran is grounded in USC-licensed ‘1994 youngest cell’ technology and enriched with a potent complex of bio-available peptides (including copper tripeptide-1, acetyl hexapeptide-8, and palmitoyl tripeptides), NMN, niacinamide, growth cofactors, and amino acids. While long-term placebo-controlled trials are still emerging, existing IRB-approved studies and in vitro human skin models have shown increased collagen synthesis, improved barrier function, and measurable growth factor activity.

Exotran isn’t built on buzzwords—it’s built on biological logic. We’re proud to support the skin’s regenerative pathways through well-studied, synergistic ingredients—and lead the future of skin science with innovation, integrity, and transparency.

✅ Addressing Common Claims with Science

Let’s address each of these clearly — with science, not speculation.

1. Can exosomes be shelf-stable?

In the case of Exotran by Trandmi, we start with the highest-purity USC1994® freeze-dried umbilical cord stem cell extract—and then our lab professionally reconstitutes it into a stabilized, ready-to-use liquid. This liquid format maintains the integrity and bioactivity of the exosomes through advanced carrier systems, including butylene glycol, amino acid buffers, and skin-safe preservatives, which allow it to remain shelf-stable at room temperature or under refrigeration. There is no scientific evidence showing that powder + saline activation at the point of use is superior—in fact, that format is often chosen for marketing reasons or logistical flexibility. We chose the ready-to-use liquid form because it ensures consistency, safety, and full ingredient performance, without relying on the customer to mix delicate ingredients correctly. And since Exotran is not just an exosome serum, but a comprehensive skin booster with PDRN, NMN, glutathione, niacinamide, and peptides, this format allows all active ingredients to work synergistically and immediately upon application.

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2. Are exosomes illegal or dangerous?

Absolutely not. Exotran uses USC1994®, a patented Human Umbilical Cord Blood Stem Cell Conditioned Media Extract that has undergone over 30 years of research. It is:

• Non-viable (not live)

• Acellular and purified

• Ethically sourced from clinical-grade umbilical cord blood donations

• Regulated under cosmetic frameworks for topical use in Korea and abroad

Every donor is ethically screened through a medically regulated process, and our exosomes are cultivated from a stable, high-quality stem cell culture. This ensures exceptional consistency, safety, and clinical-grade integrity—verified in collaboration with Korea’s leading exosome bio lab.

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3. Is there clinical data supporting their use?

Yes—while the field is still emerging, the science is already promising.

Clinical and preclinical studies show that umbilical exosomes:

• Increase collagen and elastin synthesis

• Stimulate fibroblast activity

• Support barrier recovery and hydration

• Reduce inflammation and accelerate skin healing

Sources

• Therapeutic Effects of MSC Exosomes on Skin Wound Healing — PubMed

• Clinical trial on melasma and skin rejuvenation — NCT06677931

• Human study showing wrinkle reduction using USC-CM — PMC6205340

Human umbilical cord MSC-derived exosomes have been shown to significantly enhance collagen and elastin expression, increase fibroblast proliferation, and accelerate skin wound healing in both mouse models and human cell cultures.

→ PubMed: Therapeutic Effects of MSC Exosomes on Skin Wound Healing

• A current clinical trial (NCT06677931) is evaluating the efficacy of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell–derived exosomes for the treatment of melasma and skin rejuvenation, particularly in combination with laser therapy. The study explores their anti-wrinkle, antioxidant, and regenerative potential in human patients.

→ ClinicalTrials.gov – NCT06677931

• A human study using umbilical cord blood stem cell–derived conditioned media (USC-CM) showed visible improvements in dermal density and wrinkle reduction, attributed to high levels of growth factors including GDF11.

→ PMC Article: Human Umbilical Cord Blood CM in Skin Aging

• Regarding shelf stability, a peer-reviewed study found that freeze-dried exosomes retained integrity and bioactivity at room temperature for up to 4 weeks when stabilized with trehalose.

→ PubMed: Effects of Lyophilization on EVs

• Another study confirmed that bovine milk-derived extracellular vesicles remained stable at up to 50 °C for 3 months, and at 2–8 °C for over 24 months, reinforcing that with proper lyophilization and formulation, exosomes can be shelf-stable in cosmetic products.

→ PMC Article: Stability of Milk EVs

Are These Studies on Humans?

Yes, there are multiple peer-reviewed studies using human subjects, human skin explants, and human cell cultures—not just animals. These studies go beyond outdated rodent models and provide meaningful clinical-level evidence supporting the safe and effective topical use of umbilical-derived exosomes like those in Exotran. Several trials involved live human participants or ex vivo human skin, demonstrating improvements in collagen regeneration, skin barrier function, pigmentation balance, and wrinkle reduction. So if anyone claims “there are only rat studies,” that is not only misleading—it’s factually incorrect.

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4. Do plants really have exosomes?

However, Exotran does not rely on plant EVs as its primary mechanism. Our hero ingredient, USC1994®, is a human umbilical-derived EV known for its compatibility with human skin regeneration pathways.

Exotran by Trandmi is the result of years of research and a strategic partnership with Korea’s leading exosome biotechnology lab. At its core is USC1994®, a patented umbilical cord blood–derived exosome extract developed through over 30 years of research and recognized internationally as Human Umbilical Mesenchymal Stem Cell Conditioned Media Extract. Backed by more than 240 scientific studies, this advanced ingredient is known for its powerful regenerative effects—enhancing collagen production, reducing inflammation, and promoting visible skin renewal. 

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5. Exotran is a True Multi-Functional Skin Booster

What Makes Exotran Different?

Exotran isn’t just an “exosome serum.” It’s a clinically designed skin booster, formulated to deliver visible results through synergistic active pathways.  

• USC1994® Exosomes: Contain over 1,470 bioactive factors, including GDF11

• PDRN (50,000 ppm) – for DNA repair and tissue regeneration

• NMN (20,000 ppm) – to support NAD⁺ production and cellular energy

• Copper tripeptide-1 + Palmitoyl peptides: promote elasticity and firmness

• Niacinamide (100,000 ppm): brightens, strengthens, and calms the skin

• Glutathione, B vitamins, Biotin, Amino Acids: detoxify, nourish, and energize

The exosomes in Exotran are 1/1,700 the size of a pore, ensuring deep absorption without injections or devices—making it safe and effective for professional and home use.

Photo Credit: @bboxbeauty