From regenerative medicine to ExoTech

Dermocosmetic innovation never stops. New ingredients and smarter mechanisms of action and technologies that, until recently, were confined to medical settings, are transforming how we care for our skin. MartiDerm has been committed to this approach for many years: science applied to dermocosmetics to deliver visible, real, and sustainable results.

Against this backdrop, one term is gaining prominence thanks to its enormous potential: exosomes.

You may have come across this term in articles on the latest medical and cosmetic treatments or regenerative medicine. But what exactly are exosomes? And why are they revolutionising dermocosmetics? Let us explain.

What are exosomes, and how do they work?

Exosomes are tiny vesicles released naturally by cells and used for intercellular communication. They act as “smart messengers” that transport genetic material and proteins from one cell to another. Cells use exosomes to communicate, regulate key functions, and activate processes, such as cellular regeneration and repair.

Visual representation of exomes

Exosomes are classified into two main types based on their origin:

  • Biomimetic: these reproduce the structural and functional characteristics of human exosomes, resulting in higher cell affinity.
  • Plant-derived: these are naturally occurring, but their composition and concentration vary. They also have low affinity with human cells.
Types of exomes and their cellular affinity

Biomimetic exosomes are the most effective, stable, and compatible type for the skin. They are a game changer in dermocosmetics, inspired by regenerative medicine.

The role of exosomes in regenerative medicine

Did you know that exosomes have been used in regenerative medicine for years? Exosomes have emerged as a powerful therapeutic tool in this field due to their ability to trigger specific biological functions.

They have been researched and used in treatments for joint injuries, inflammatory diseases, skin ageing, and even post-surgery recovery.

The arrival of exosomes in dermocosmetics

Of course, if the results are so impressive in medicine, why not incorporate them into your daily skincare routine?

Exosomes are the key to a new generation of cosmetics. Exosomes are being increasingly used as delivery vehicles for transporting active ingredients directly into the skin, providing targeted and precise action.

What are the benefits of biomimetic exosomes in cosmetics?

As mentioned above, biomimetic exosomes stand out for the following reasons:

  • They have greater cellular affinity.
  • They offer a more precise and prolonged release.
  • They have greater stability and skin tolerance.
  • They encapsulate active ingredients and protect them from degradation.

The main difference compared to other types of exosomes, such as plant-derived exosomes, lies in their design. A biomimetic exosome has a nanometric structure, with a lipid membrane and a protein content designed to interact directly with skin cell receptors.

Biomimetic exosomes are not only more effective, but also safer: they deliver active ingredients without overloading the formula or irritating the skin. The result is a revolutionary product that does more with less.

ExoTech: MartiDerm’s exclusive biomimetic exosome

At MartiDerm, the challenge was clear: to harness the potential of exosomes, used in regenerative medicine, to create an effective dermocosmetic solution for everyday use.

The result was ExoTech, a biomimetic exosome exclusive to MartiDerm, co-developed by our R&D team, containing depigmenting active ingredients. Its design replicates the structure of human exosomes and has been clinically tested to ensure its stability, compatibility and effectiveness in transporting depigmenting agents.

How does ExoTech act on hyperpigmentation?

And how does all this translate into visible results?

ExoTech works as a “smart vehicle” that transports depigmenting active ingredients directly to where they are needed: the source of the dark spot. Thanks to their high cellular affinity, they provide targeted, deep and long-lasting action.

What active ingredients does it transport and why?

ExoTech encapsulates three powerful active ingredients:

  • Tranexamic acid: acts on melanin synthesis by reducing its inflammatory activation.
  • Niacinamide: inhibits the transfer of melanin to keratinocytes.
  • Bearberry extract: a natural source of arbutin with skin-lightening properties.

Its surface also contains MartiDerm’s exclusive proteoglycan, Proteum 89+.

How does it work on the skin?

The formula is designed to act on the three stages of the pigmentation process:

  • Before: it limits the signals that activate melanin.
  • During: it reduces melanin synthesis and the transfer of melanin to keratinocytes.
  • After: it helps reduce the appearance of dark spots on the skin’s surface.

This comprehensive approach treats both visible and underlying dark spots, improving overall skin tone and preventing reappearance.

This targeted action, which has been proven in preclinical ex vivo studies, results in visible skin tone improvement.

Melanin content of Exotech

This diagram demonstrates how ExoTech encapsulated ingredients reduce melanin content by up to 172% following UVA irradiation, compared to a lower level of reduction with free ingredients1.

This equates to a 14% improvement in efficacy and a threefold reduction in melanin synthesis1.

DSP-Exo Melan

DSP‑Exo Melan: the first ExoTech product launch

This extensive research has resulted in a single product: DSP‑Exo Melan: MartiDerm’s first depigmenting serum formulated with ExoTech technology.

A formula inspired by regenerative medicine, designed to target even the darkest spots with precision, thanks to its advanced delivery system.

Tested under dermatological control for 84 days, DSP-Exo Melan serum has demonstrated2:

  • Up to -43% dark spots
  • Up to +86% more even tone
  • Proven effectiveness against reappearance after 14 days without application

In addition, its pleasant, liquid texture makes it the perfect solution for use in any day or night routine.

¹ Ex vivo reduction in melanin synthesis. Ref: 8715.

² Depigmenting and anti-reappearance efficacy under dermatological control. Average and maximum values. Ref: 03-ZP24-123 071.

The power of innovation applied to dermocosmetics

The incorporation of biomimetic technology, such as ExoTech, marks the dawn of a new generation of cosmetics founded on science, biotechnology, and extensive skincare expertise.

With ExoTech, at MartiDerm we take another step forward in our commitment to bringing scientific rigor to daily skincare, by integrating tools from regenerative medicine into next-generation cosmetic formulas.

A new approach to efficacy: from within, with precision, and speaking the same language as your skin.

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