What is the difference between biostimulators, exosomes, skin boosters, and polynucleotides?

Here’s a quick guide to the differences between them all:

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Biostimulators

• Definition: Biostimulators are injectable substances that stimulate the body’s collagen production for long-term improvements in skin volume and texture.

• Ideal for: Long-term volume, reduction in fine lines and structural improvements

• Mechanism: Act as scaffolds for collagen production and stimulate fibroblasts in the skin to produce new collagen.

• USP: Long-lasting results (up to several years) that develop gradually over months as collagen is produced

• Brands we use: Profhilo Structura®, Radiesse® (Hyperdilute), and Sculptra®.

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Exosomes

• Definition: Cell-derived vesicles that contain growth factors and signalling molecules, used to promote skin regeneration and healing. Can be human, animal or plant based.

• Ideal for: Broad regenerative and healing benefits

• Mechanism: Deliver signalling molecules to promote skin regeneration and healing by influencing cell behaviour.

• Speed and longevity: Long-term regenerative benefits, though initial effects may be subtle.

• Brands we use: Inno-Exoma® Exo Skin

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Injectable moisturisers / Skin boosters

• Definition: Typically hyaluronic acid-based products that revitalise the surface of your skin for a lit-from-within glow

• Ideal for: Immediate hydration and plumping effects

• Mechanism: Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains water, providing deep hydration within the skin. There is also an immediate skin-plumping effect due to HA’s volumising properties.

• Speed and Longevity: Immediate but temporary results, usually lasting a few months.

• Brands we use: Profhilo ®, Seventy Hyal 2000 ®, MHA135® and 135HA®

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Polynucleotides:

• Definition: DNA fragments from fish sperm that stimulate cell regeneration

• Ideal for: Promoting deep skin repair to improve skin texture and elasticity

• Mechanism: Provide building blocks for DNA repair and stimulate fibroblast activity to enhance cell turnover.

• Speed and Longevity: Gradual results as the skin regenerates and repairs, but you can see longer-term improvement with regular treatments.

• Brands we use: Vitaran ® and Plenhyage XL® Strong.

 

Are biostimulators the same as stem cells?

No, biostimulators are substances that stimulate collagen production, while stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can develop into different cell types and have regenerative properties. Both are used in aesthetics but work through different mechanisms.