Exosomes Hair Loss Treatment
What are exosomes?
Exosomes are tiny extracellular vesicles that are produced by cells in the body, and they contain bioactive molecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, amino acids, and lipids. Exosomes serve as signaling molecules that mediate intercellular communications, therefore, they provide instructions for our cells to act on. As they are extremely small, measuring 30 to 150 nanometres (1/1000th the thickness of human hair), they penetrate the skin easily, releasing the signals for cells to initiate the process of regeneration and repair.
Although exosomes are not stem cells, they are derived from human adipose mesenchymal stem cell, containing numerous bioactive ingredients for skin rejuvenation and hair growth such as:
- Growth factors – epidermal growth factor (EGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF).
- Amino acids – Lysine, Phenylalanine, Valine, Leucine, Isoleucine, Threonine, Methionine, Histidine, Arginine, Glycine, Serine, Proline, Tyrosine, Cysteine, Alanine, Aspartic acid and Glutamic acid.
- Peptides – Copper Tripeptide-1, Hexapeptide-9, Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4.
- Other active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, panthenol, and glutathione.
How do exosomes help with hair regeneration?
Exosome therapy is an innovative and burgeoning option within regenerative medicine, and it offers a novel approach to the treatment of hair loss. Exosomes are postulated to help hair growth by improving intercellular communication and mediating the crosstalk between epithelial cells and mesenchymal stem cells during the hair growth cycle. Hair regrowth is also promoted through various growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), and keratinocyte growth factor (KGF), and signaling pathways such as wingless-related integration site (Wnt)/beta-catenin, Sonic hedgehog (Shh), and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP).
When introduced to the scalp, the signaling molecules and genetic material associated with hair growth are transferred from exosomes to hair follicle cells, promoting hair growth through improved cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival.
The different modes of action of exosomes for hair growth are:
- Promote the growth of hair follicles
Exosomes contain numerous growth factors, amino acids, peptides, and lipids that promote hair growth.
- Promote angiogenesis
Exosomes contain angiogenic growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). These growth factors promote new blood vessel formation, which improves the nourishment of hair follicles.
- Regulation of hair growth cycle
Exosomes promote the growth of new hair by converting hair follicles stuck in the telogen phase to the anagen phase; thereby regulating the hair growth cycle.
- Anti-inflammatory effects
Exosomes contain molecules that are anti-inflammatory to reduce inflammation of the scalp that can contribute to hair loss.
- Protection of hair follicle stem cells
Exosomes contain molecules that protect the follicular stem cells that are responsible for hair regrowth.
Who is suitable for exosome hair loss treatment?
Hair loss is a pervasive and often distressing condition, affecting a significant number of individuals globally. Both males and females are affected, and it can afflict those in their 20s. Exosomes hair treatment is an invaluable adjunct complementing conventional hair treatments such as topicals, oral medications, injectables, and hair transplant.
Patients with the following hair problems are suitable for exosome hair treatment:
- People with a sudden onset of increase in hair fall that is temporary and non-permanent triggered by stress, weight loss, childbirth, or illness.
- Women with thinning hair or increased hair loss that occurs perimenopausal.
- Men who experience hair loss patterns consistent with male pattern baldness.
- Anyone with thin or fine hair who is seeking to have thicker and denser hair.
- Anyone with or without a family history of hair loss, and is trying to proactively prevent/reduce hair loss.
What are the benefits of exosome hair loss treatment?
There are numerous benefits of exosome treatment when compared to other forms of hair treatment and they are:
- Minimally invasive – Unlike hair transplants, exosome therapy is a non-surgical treatment. This minimally invasive approach avoids the risks and inconveniences associated with surgery.
- Good clinical safety profile – As exosomes are signaling molecules derived from human stem cells, the risk of allergy reaction is much lower compared to using actual stem cells for hair treatment. A clinical review by Gupta et al. in 2023 has also demonstrated its safety when used for hair treatment.
- Efficacious – Exosome therapy for hair treatment has been shown to improve hair regrowth, and density, and reduce hair fall in patients with androgenic alopecia. Gupta et al. reviewed 16 studies and showed that exosome therapy is effective for hair loss.
- Complement other hair treatments – Exosome therapy can be a powerful addition to your existing hair loss treatment plan. It works alongside conventional treatments like topical medications, oral medications, and other injections.
FAQ
Exosome hair treatment has a good safety profile, and generally, it is suitable for all patients. However, due to the lack of research on its effect on pregnant and breastfeeding women, we advise against exosome therapy for this group out of an abundance of caution.
Exosome hair treatment has minimal downtime. Most patients can resume their daily activities on the same day. However, it’s recommended to avoid touching the treated area for at least 4 hours and to wait 6 hours before washing your hair.
For optimal results, we typically recommend an initial intensive phase of 1-2 weekly exosome therapy sessions for the first 2 months. This is then followed by a maintenance schedule of monthly treatments for an additional 6 months.
Individual results may vary depending on the severity of hair loss. However, most patients experience initial signs of increased hair growth within 2 months. By 6 months, you can expect to see more noticeable results such as thicker hair shafts, improved hair density, and overall hair strength.
Yes, you can combine exosome hair treatment with other hair loss solutions! At The Clifford Clinic, we often recommend a personalized treatment plan that may include exosome therapy alongside other options to maximize your results. These options could include:
- Medications: Minoxidil 5% or Finasteride
- Topicals: TCC intensive hair serum
- Hair supplements: Nourkrin and Miriqa hair extra strength
- 1927 Thullium Laser: Fraxel laser system
- Injectables: Regenera Activa
For advanced hair loss, The Clifford Clinic provides Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) hair transplant in Singapore, a proven technique for hair restoration and regaining confidence.
By combining exosome therapy with other solutions, you may experience a more comprehensive approach to hair loss treatment, potentially leading to faster results, improved efficacy, enhanced hair growth and density.