7월 23, 2025

🧬 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.

What Are Exosomes?

Exosomes are tiny extracellular vesicles (EVs) naturally released by cells. They act as biological messengers—carrying proteins, lipids, RNA, and signaling molecules that influence how surrounding cells behave. In skincare, exosomes derived from umbilical cord stem cell cultures have shown impressive potential in stimulating collagen and elastin, supporting wound healing, reducing inflammation, and improving overall skin vitality—based on preclinical studies and emerging clinical data.

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?

Yes—when processed properly. Injectable exosomes require cryopreservation at –80°C because they contain live or biologically active cellular material. But cosmetic-grade, non-viable, purified exosomes, like those in Exotran, undergo freeze-drying (lyophilization) at the lab level and are reconstituted into a ready-to-use liquid. They are then stabilized using cosmetic-safe carriers like butylene glycol, amino acid buffers, and medical-grade preservatives. This method allows the product to remain shelf-stable at room temperature or under refrigeration, with no need for deep freezing.

Peer-reviewed studies confirm that freeze-dried exosomes can remain bioactive under proper conditions

(PMC11565256; PubMed 30316791).

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.

Examples of Human-Based Exosome Research:

1. IRB-approved clinical study on 22 women using a topical exosome lotion – Frontiers in Bioengineering & Biotechnology (2022)

✅ Confirmed improved skin barrier and safety on human skin.

2. Clinical trial for melasma and rejuvenation using cord-derived exosomes – ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT06677931

✅ Involving live human subjects; currently underway.

3. Ex vivo study on human skin explants showing increased collagen and elastin – PubMed

✅ Real human skin tissue in lab setting.

4. In vitro study using human foreskin fibroblasts – Springer (2024)

✅ Demonstrated increased ECM proteins like collagen, elastin, and fibronectin.

These findings support the growing consensus that umbilical exosomes are not experimental—they are clinically backed for topical skin use.

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4. Do plants really have exosomes?

Some confusion has arisen around “plant exosomes.”

To clarify: Plants do not produce mammalian exosomes, but they do secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs) that function similarly—often called exosome-like nanovesicles. These plant EVs carry lipids, small RNAs, and proteins, and research shows they can:

• Reduce inflammation

• Support wound healing

• Deliver antioxidant benefits

Studies include grape-derived EVs improving UV-damaged skin (Wang et al., 2021) and ginger-derived EVs accelerating collagen repair (Zhang et al., 2016).

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.

At AO Medical, we believe that innovation in skincare must be guided by science, ethics, and transparency. There is no miracle ingredient—but there is intelligent formulation, and Exotran was built with that in mind.

6. Can Exotran cause a skin reaction because it’s “too active”?

We want to make this absolutely clear — your skin cannot be irritated from the Exotran product. We guarantee it. Exotran is formulated specifically for use during microneedling or microchanneling on freshly treated skin. Every ingredient is selected for safety on an “open channel” — meaning it can be applied directly after the skin has been perforated without causing chemical injury.

***If a client experiences unexpected burning, redness, or stinging, the cause is almost never the serum itself. More commonly, this can be related to factors such as: needle depth and number of passes, aggressive skin prep (acidic cleansers or alcohol), lingering numbing cream residue, recent sun exposure, certain medications, or even individual sensitivity to metal needles.

Because Exotran is biologically active, you may feel a temporary sensation as it penetrates — this is a sign the ingredients are engaging with the skin’s repair processes. However, prolonged or severe irritation is more likely due to treatment protocol variables rather than the serum composition. Adjusting prep, depth, or application method can usually eliminate this response while maintaining optimal results

To ensure you have complete professional confidence, we have broken down every single ingredient in the formula. This booster serum is made with purified water, peptides, over a dozen amino acids, sodium DNA (PDRN), NMN, centella asiatica, mugwort, plant extracts, vitamins, and gentle humectants — all medical-grade, clinically used ingredients specifically chosen to calm, repair, and rejuvenate skin immediately after microneedling. There are no exfoliating acids, no high-level alcohols, and no known irritants at concentrations that could damage the skin. Every active ingredient here is used to promote healing, calm inflammation, and enhance skin recovery.

In Korea, we’ve even used 3 vials per treatment safely — far more than typical — with zero irritation. The product itself is incapable of causing chemical burns or reactions. If redness or stinging persists, the cause lies elsewhere.

**Here are 10 things we recommend you check when a client experiences irritation after microneedling — all based on the treatment process itself. There are certainly more possible factors, since skin type, current skin condition, seasonal changes, and even the client’s pre- and post-care at home can all play a role.

Possible Causes of Post-Microneedling Reaction (Not Product-Related)

1. Treatment Depth – Needles going too deep for the client’s skin type can cause prolonged redness, swelling, or sensitivity.

2. Number of Passes – Excessive passes over the same area can create unnecessary trauma and increase inflammation. (We’ve seen cases where providers do too many passes simply because the skin doesn’t show an immediate reaction. This can lead to delayed irritation. We do not recommend more than 2–3 passes, and for very sensitive or thin skin, even a single pass is enough to gauge how the skin responds.)

3. Skin Prep Products – Harsh cleansers, degreasers, or pre-treatment solutions with high alcohol content can strip the skin barrier before microneedling.

4. Numbing Cream – Certain anesthetic creams contain preservatives or ingredients (like lidocaine, benzocaine, or prilocaine) that can cause skin sensitivity or allergic reactions.

5. Device Settings – Incorrect speed or power settings can damage skin tissue rather than gently stimulate it.

6. Needle Material Sensitivity – Some clients may have sensitivity to certain metals used in microneedling needles (especially nickel in lower-grade needles).

7. Post-Treatment Aftercare Products – Using incompatible skincare (acids, retinoids, fragranced creams) too soon after treatment can cause stinging and irritation.

8. Pre-existing Skin Conditions – Clients with rosacea, eczema, or highly sensitive skin may react more strongly to the treatment process.

9. Overheating or Over-drying During Healing – Excessive sun exposure, heat, or improper moisture levels post-treatment can lead to discomfort or delayed healing.

10. Improper Device Hygiene – Any residual disinfectant or contaminant on the needles or tip can cause an unexpected skin reaction.

Photo Credit: @bboxbeauty