New-generation skincare comes packed full of powerful formulas that appear to be delivering impressive results.
Some of the latest developments in skincare include the use of stem cells and exosomes — messengers between cells that are said to have the ability to transport molecules such as proteins and lipids, growth factors and even genetic material to potentially help renew the appearance of skin. Unsurprisingly they have become the new beauty buzzword.
The key problem with stem cell-derived products on the market (which use adult or plant stem cells), however, is that the cells are difficult to draw and even harder to harvest. So it was big news when a researcher began drawing neonatal stem cells from the umbilical cord lining of red deer — a substance said to be rich in vibrant stem cells.
For several years cord lining stem cells had been explored principally for wound-healing purposes, and it wasn’t long before experts began to draw a connection between the cellular repair process and anti-ageing benefits. Consequently the company holding the patent for this stem cell source launched a cosmeceutical line called Calecim.
“Calecim’s PTT-6 contains a unique mix of growth factors, cytokines and proteins derived from umbilical cord lining stem cells,” says Dr Manav Bawa, a cosmetic doctor and plastic surgeon who runs the Time Clinic in London.
