• Exosome-Based Strategies for Skin and Hair: Insights from Wharton’s Jelly MSCs
  • Elmira Vanaki,1 Sahar Shojaei,2 Bahareh beiki,3 Arezoo Bazargani,4 Azar Sadeghi,5 Morteza Daliri Joupari,6,*
    1. National Institute of genetic engineering and Biotechnology
    2. Middle east gene and cell therapy Company
    3. Middle east gene and cell therapy company
    4. Middle east gene abd cell therapy
    5. Middle east gene and cell therapy
    6. National Institute of genetic engineering and Biotechnology


  • Introduction: Exosomes, as nanosized extracellular vesicles, are emerging as innovative tools in dermatology and cosmetology due to their unique biological functions. These vesicles carry bioactive molecules such as proteins, lipids, and RNAs, enabling them to mediate intercellular communication and tissue repair. In particular, exosomes derived from Wharton’s Jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) have shown strong potential for skin and hair health because of their regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and low-immunogenic properties. Their ability to penetrate skin barriers and deliver functional cargos has positioned them as novel candidates for rejuvenation, wound healing, pigmentation control, and hair restoration.
  • Methods: This review synthesizes current evidence from preclinical and clinical studies on the therapeutic and cosmetic potential of WJ-MSC exosomes. Literature was analyzed with focus on mechanisms of action, skin penetration strategies, and clinical translation. Key areas explored include wound healing, pigmentation, anti-aging effects, inflammation modulation, transdermal delivery systems, and hair regeneration.
  • Results: Wound repair: They accelerate angiogenesis, promote extracellular matrix remodeling, enhance epithelial cell differentiation, and help minimize scar formation. Pigmentation regulation: By suppressing tyrosinase and MITF activity, they decrease hyperpigmentation and fade dark spots. Anti-aging action: They stimulate collagen production, reduce oxidative stress (ROS), and modulate proteins linked to cellular senescence. Inflammation control: They lower IL-17 levels and downregulate inflammatory genes, providing benefits in conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Transdermal application: These vesicles penetrate the skin effectively through microneedles, follicular routes, and nanocarrier-based systems. Hair growth promotion: They activate dermal papilla and matrix cells, upregulate IGF-1 and KGF, and shift follicles from telogen to the anagen growth phase.
  • Conclusion: WJ-MSC-derived exosomes represent a cutting-edge, safe, and biocompatible platform for cosmetic and therapeutic dermatology. Their multifunctional effects in rejuvenation, pigmentation control, wound repair, and hair growth highlight their translational promise. Despite challenges in large-scale production and regulatory approval, exosome-based formulations are poised to revolutionize skincare and hair therapies.
  • Keywords: Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cells; Skin Regeneration; Hair Growth; Cosmetic Dermatolo