Stem cells have recently become a huge buzzword in the skincare world. But what does this really mean – what kinds of stem cells are being used? With very few exceptions, most skincare specialists are not using human stem cells in their products. Apart from being controversial, it is difficult to incorporate living stem cells into a skincare product. Instead, companies are creating products with phyto (plant) stem cells which, when applied topically on the surface, help protect the human skin stem cells from damage and deterioration, and work stimulate the skin’s own stem cells.
Phyto (Plant) stem cell extracts are not common phyto-extracts – they are much more concentrated, complex, and effective than normal plant extracts found in health stores everywhere. Through a patented process in highly controlled conditions, these botanical stem cells are extracted in a way that maintains considerable biological properties of the original plant.
These advances in the process of producing plant stem cell cultures and leaf cell cultures have yielded a range of new ingredients for cosmetic applications. Specially cultivated to generate cultures rich in plant stem cells and complex compounds, plant cell cultures act as nature-made liposomes that are fully compliant with the skin, perfect for delivering their contents of powerful antioxidants and cell regenerating molecules.
Here are a few examples of how phyto-stem cells can contribute to the protection, healing, and treatment of the skin.
Apple – The rare Swiss apple has a renewal power that rejuvenates saggy skin. Apple stem cells help boost the production of human skin stem cells by protecting skin from stress and decreasing fine lines and wrinkles. The Huffington Post recently reported on the trend in Apple Stem Cell treatments for healthy skin.
Buddleja (Butterfly Bush) – Specially cultured stem cells regenerate and heal damaged skin. Offers effective and broad protection from photodamage (UV damage) and oxidative stress. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties.
Centella – Rich in caffeoylquinic acids and regenerating stem cells, products containing Centella stem cells offer excellent firming and restructuring properties. The anti-inflammatory and vasoactive activity makes it ideal for body sculpting products and the treatment of blood vessel disorders.
Echinacea – Not just for colds anymore, Echinacea stimulates and protects collagen production to reduce wrinkles and generate firm skin. Stem cells heal and regenerate tissue, while echinacoside content provides protective antioxidant activity.
Edelweiss – This has the potential to regenerate tissue, and the ability to protect and heal damaged skin. It is rich in powerful antioxidants and other substances with anti-inflammatory properties. Clinically proven to reduce wrinkle depth around eye area.
Gardenia – Restructuring collagen booster. This material, rich in feruloyl-6-glucoside, is highly effective for boosting collagen production and reducing collagen degradation.
In short, phyto stem cells help activate the skin’s immune system to speed cellular renewal, reduce inflammation and safeguard skin from environmental stress (UV damage), helping to slow down the aging process.
There is no doubt that there will be more to come from ongoing advances in phyto stem cell research. The results are already proven – the use of phyto stem cells aids in regulating cell function, improving circulation, encouraging skin renewal, repairing past skin damage while strengthening skin’s protective barrier against environmental aggressors – what more could you ask for?
Want to read more about other advances in stem cell ingredients? Find out how Dr. Ben Johnson, founder of Osmosis is advancing his research in The Human Side of Cosmetic Stem Cell Technology.
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