Regenerative Medicine, Like a New Skin Again.

Regenerative Medicine 2026 | Exosomes, PRP, Polynucleotides | ABesthetic

🔬 Regenerative Medicine

The most comprehensive guide to exosomes, PRP, polynucleotides and stem cells. Updated 2026.

📌 Over 80 questions answered with scientific evidence

✨ What if your skin could regenerate from within without fillers or toxins?

Imagine that instead of filling wrinkles, your own skin learns to repair itself. That is the promise of regenerative medicine: exosomes, PRP, polynucleotides and stem cells work with your biology, not against it.

⚡ The silent revolution in aesthetics:
1️⃣ Exosomes → Biological messengers that tell your skin how to repair itself.
2️⃣ PRP/PRF → Your own blood turned into regenerative medicine.
3️⃣ Polynucleotides → Building blocks that repair damaged DNA.
4️⃣ Stem cells → Natural factories of youth (but beware of myths).
✅ What are they for? Deep dark circles, thin and dehydrated skin, early sagging, acne scars, hair loss, rosacea... all without fillers or toxins. Natural results because your own cells are doing the work.
⚠️ What no one tells you: Not all exosomes are equal. Not all stem cells are legal. And no, there are no miracle creams with living stem cells. True regeneration costs, requires skill and should only be performed by an expert doctor.

📖 Use the table of contents to go directly to what interests you. This guide answers over 80 real questions about regenerative medicine.

🔬 Exosomes: the cellular messengers
What exactly are exosomes? +

Exosomes are tiny extracellular vesicles (40-160 nanometres) that cells release to communicate with each other. They act as "biological messengers": carrying instructions in the form of proteins, lipids, mRNA and microRNA that tell other cells how to behave, repair themselves or regenerate. They are not cells, do not divide and have no nucleus. They are the active component of cellular communication.

Are exosomes the same as stem cells? +

No. Stem cells are living cells that can divide and differentiate. Exosomes are vesicles without a nucleus that stem cells secrete. In fact, decades of research have shown that it is exosomes, not the stem cells themselves, that are the true drivers of tissue regeneration. Exosomes offer the regenerative benefits without the risks of living cells.

Where do exosomes come from? +

Exosomes can be derived from different sources:
Platelet-derived exosomes → Ideal for the immediate post-treatment phase: calm inflammation, reduce redness and repair the skin barrier.
Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (adipose) → Perfect for long-term remodelling: stimulate collagen I and II, improve texture and elasticity.
Reputable clinics use controlled human-derived exosomes, not plant-based ones.

Do plant exosomes work? +

The evidence is very limited. Plant exosomes come from plants like grapes, lemons or ginger. The problem is that human cells may not have the right receptors to interpret the "instructions" they carry. A plant exosome speaks a different molecular language to your skin. Most experts consider human exosomes far superior and plant exosomes to be more marketing than science.

Are exosomes injected or applied as a cream? +

The most effective route is injection (with micro-needles, cannula or after deep microneedling). Topical application as a cream has limited penetration because exosomes are relatively large vesicles. For deep, long-lasting results, injection or combination with microneedling is recommended. Exosome creams may help superficially, but don't expect miracles.

What problems does exosome therapy treat? +

Exosomes are versatile:
• Facial rejuvenation (texture, tone, elasticity)
• Dark circles and thin under-eye skin
• Acne scars
• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Post-laser or post-procedure recovery
• Rosacea and skin inflammation
• Chronic wounds and tissue repair

How long do exosome results last? +

Results appear progressively over 2-4 weeks and improve until 3-6 months. Duration depends on the exosome source and number of sessions. Generally, an initial cycle of 2-3 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks is recommended, with results lasting 6-12 months. Maintenance is usually annual.

🩸 PRP and PRF: your blood as medicine
What is PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)? +

PRP is obtained from your own blood. Blood is drawn, centrifuged to separate the components, and the platelet-rich fraction is isolated. Platelets contain growth factors that stimulate tissue repair, new collagen formation and cellular regeneration. Because it is autologous (from yourself), the risk of allergy or rejection is practically zero.

What is the difference between PRP and PRF? +

The difference is in the processing. PRP is centrifuged at higher speed and activated with calcium chloride. PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) is centrifuged at lower speed without chemical activators, forming a fibrin matrix that releases growth factors more slowly and over a longer period. PRF is better for areas needing soft volume (like dark circles) and has more sustained release.

What is PRP used for in aesthetics? +

PRP has multiple aesthetic applications:
• Facial rejuvenation (improves texture, tone, luminosity)
• Dark circles and tear troughs
• Acne scars
• Hair loss (androgenetic alopecia)
• Post-laser or post-surgery recovery
• Mild sagging
• Rejuvenated hands

Does PRP hurt? How is it applied? +

PRP is injected into the dermis with very fine needles. Pain is minimal (similar to small pinpricks). Numbing cream can be applied 30 minutes beforehand. It can also be applied after microneedling to enhance absorption. For hair loss on the scalp, it is injected throughout the affected area. A full session takes about 45-60 minutes.

How many PRP sessions are needed? +

For facial rejuvenation, 2-3 initial sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart are recommended. For hair loss, 3-4 initial sessions. Results are progressive and improve over time. Maintenance is usually annual or biannual depending on individual response. Studies show PRP improves skin elasticity by 15-18% with 76% patient satisfaction.

Can I have PRP if I'm on medication? +

PRP has few contraindications. It is not recommended if you have:
• Bleeding disorders or take anticoagulants
• Thrombocytopenia (low platelets)
• Active infection or fever
• Active cancer
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Always inform your doctor of your medical history and medications.

🐟 Polynucleotides: DNA repair
What are polynucleotides? +

Polynucleotides are purified DNA fragments, usually derived from salmon or trout (due to their high compatibility with human DNA). They are "building blocks" that stimulate cellular renewal and deep tissue repair. They activate fibroblasts and promote angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), improving skin thickness, texture and resilience.

Are salmon-derived polynucleotides safe? +

Yes. Polynucleotides are purified to remove proteins that could cause allergies. DNA structure is universal, and salmon DNA fragments are biocompatible with humans. Polynucleotides have an excellent safety profile and have been used in regenerative medicine for years. The best-known brands are Nucleofill, Plinest and Newest.

What problems are polynucleotides best for? +

Polynucleotides are especially good for:
• Sensitive, inflamed skin, rosacea or eczema
• Deep hydration and improved skin quality
• Dark circles and thin under-eye skin
• Acne scars
• Recent stretch marks
• Crepey skin (neck, décolletage, hands)
• Hair loss

How long do polynucleotides last? +

Polynucleotides have a sustained effect. 2-4 initial sessions spaced 3-4 weeks apart are recommended. Results improve progressively over 3-6 months and can last 6-12 months. Studies show improvements in skin firmness of 18-22% and antioxidant effects. It is an ideal treatment to start before deep wrinkles appear.

🧬 Stem cells: myths and realities
What are stem cells? +

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells with two unique capabilities: self-renewal (they can divide and generate more stem cells) and differentiation (they can become specialised cells like fibroblasts, fat cells, etc.). In aesthetics, the most used are mesenchymal stem cells derived from adipose tissue. However, living stem cells are not injected directly for rejuvenation; their secretions (exosomes) are used instead.

Do stem cell creams exist? Do they work? +

No. There are no living stem cells in over-the-counter creams. Stem cells are living cells that need very specific conditions to survive (temperature, nutrients). A cream in a jar cannot keep cells alive. What some creams contain are culture media or exosomes from stem cells. But beware: "plant stem cells" in cosmetics is pure marketing. They have no relation to human stem cells.

Can stem cells be injected directly? +

Currently, there are no approved injectable treatments with living stem cells for aesthetic rejuvenation in most countries. What does exist is SVF-enriched lipofilling (stromal vascular fraction), which contains stem cells along with other components of fat tissue. Also used are stem cell-derived exosomes, which have the regenerative benefits without the risks of living cells.

Are stem cell treatments legal? +

Regulation is strict. In Europe and the UK, treatments with living stem cells are only approved for very specific indications (such as bone grafts or cartilage repair). For aesthetic rejuvenation, what is legally used are exosomes and growth factors derived from stem cells, not the living cells themselves. Any clinic offering "living stem cell injections" should be viewed with scepticism.

⚖️ Comparison: which one to choose?
Complete comparison: Exosomes vs PRP vs Polynucleotides +
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
FeatureExosomesPRP/PRFPolynucleotides
OriginStem cells or plateletsYour own bloodSalmon DNA (synthetic)
MechanismAdvanced cell signallingGrowth factorsDNA and fibroblast repair
Visible result2-4 weeks2-4 weeks2-4 weeks
Peak maximum3-6 months3-4 months3-6 months
Duration6-12 months6-9 months6-12 months
Initial sessions2-32-32-4
Best forDeep regenerationHealing and repairHydration and sensitive skin
\n
Which treatment is best for me? +

Choice depends on your needs:
Sensitive skin, rosacea, inflammation → Polynucleotides (calm and repair)
Deep dark circles + skin quality → PRF or polynucleotides
Hair loss → PRP + exosomes
Acne scars → Exosomes + microneedling
Global rejuvenation → Combination of all three
Your doctor will advise you based on your skin and goals.

📍 Treatment areas
Do they work for dark circles? +

Yes, it is one of the best indications. Polynucleotides, PRP/PRF and exosomes are excellent for dark circles because they improve the quality of thin under-eye skin, stimulate collagen and reduce hyperpigmentation. Unlike HA fillers, there is no risk of lumps or Tyndall effect. PRF even provides soft, natural volume. 2-3 sessions are needed.

Do they work for hair loss? +

Yes, especially PRP and exosomes. PRP injected into the scalp stimulates hair follicles, increases hair thickness and reduces shedding. Exosomes add an extra layer of regeneration. 3-4 initial sessions spaced 4 weeks apart are recommended, then maintenance every 6-12 months. It doesn't work for advanced baldness (dead follicles), but does work for early androgenetic alopecia.

Can they be used on the whole face? +

Absolutely. They are injected into cheeks, forehead, neck, décolletage, eye contour, around lips (not inside), and hands. There are no forbidden areas, but some are more delicate like the eyelids. These are global treatments that improve overall skin quality, not just a specific wrinkle.

Do they work for stretch marks and scars? +

Yes. Combined with microneedling or laser, polynucleotides and exosomes significantly improve the appearance of stretch marks (especially white ones) and acne scars. They stimulate new collagen production and remodel scar tissue. 3-4 sessions are needed.

🔪 Procedure and sessions
Does the treatment hurt? +

Pain is minimal. Very fine needles (30-32G) or cannulas are used. Numbing cream can be applied 30 minutes beforehand. The sensation is like small pinpricks or a tingling feeling. Most patients tolerate it very well without additional anaesthesia.

How long does a session take? +

A full session takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the areas treated. For PRP, an additional 15-20 minutes for blood draw and centrifugation. For exosomes and polynucleotides, the product is ready to use.

How many sessions are needed? +

An initial cycle of 2-4 sessions spaced 3-6 weeks apart is recommended. Then maintenance sessions every 6-12 months. The exact number depends on your skin, age and goals. Improvement is cumulative: each session adds to the last.

⏳ Results and duration
When are results visible? +

Results are progressive. At 2-4 weeks you already notice more hydrated and luminous skin. The peak maximum is reached between 3 and 6 months, when new collagen has fully formed. Unlike fillers, patience is key here.

How long do results last? +

Duration varies depending on the treatment and the patient. Generally, results last between 6 and 12 months. The collagen you generate is yours, but it will continue to age at its own natural rate. That's why an annual maintenance session is recommended.

Are results natural? +

Yes, very natural. Because you stimulate your own cells, the change is gradual and integrates harmoniously. No one will say "you've had something done", but rather "you look great, have you been sleeping better?" That's the hallmark of good regenerative medicine.

🛡️ Safety and side effects
Are these treatments safe? +

Yes, they have an excellent safety profile. Side effects are mild and temporary: redness, mild swelling, small bruises or red dots that disappear in 24-72 hours. There is no risk of granulomas, necrosis or blindness as with fillers. Patient satisfaction is high (76-89% according to studies).

Can I have an allergic reaction? +

With PRP/PRF it's practically impossible because it's your own blood. With polynucleotides it's extremely rare because they are purified DNA without proteins. With exosomes it's also very rare. Overall, regenerative medicine has a much lower allergenic profile than conventional fillers.

Contraindications? +

Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, active infections, active autoimmune diseases, active cancer, or severe bleeding disorders. A prior medical assessment is always required.

🔄 Combining treatments
Can they be combined with each other? +

Yes, and it's the most advanced strategy. For example: polynucleotides + PRP for dark circles, microneedling + exosomes to enhance regeneration, PRP before laser to improve healing. The synergistic combination produces better results than each treatment separately.

Can they be combined with fillers or toxin? +

Yes, they are perfectly compatible. In fact, many doctors combine regenerative medicine (for skin quality) with botulinum toxin (for dynamic wrinkles) and fillers (for volume). They can be done in the same session or spaced out. Regenerative medicine works on skin health, while toxin and fillers work on structure.

💰 Prices
How much does a session cost? +

Prices vary depending on the city and clinic:
• PRP facial: £250-500 per session
• PRP + exosomes: £400-700 per session
• Polynucleotides: £300-600 per session
• Packages of 3 sessions usually have a discount (20-30%)
The price reflects the extraction, preparation in a medical-grade centrifuge, and the doctor's experience.

Is it worth it? +

If you value a natural and lasting improvement in your skin quality, yes. It's not a temporary patch like a filler, it's an investment in your skin's health in the medium to long term. The cumulative results and high patient satisfaction support its effectiveness.

❓ Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between exosomes and PRP? +

PRP contains whole platelets that release growth factors. Exosomes are smaller, purified vesicles that contain genetic instructions (mRNA, microRNA). Exosomes are more potent and specific, but also more expensive. PRP is more affordable and very effective for healing and hair.

Are exosomes approved? +

In Europe and the UK, exosomes can be used in clinics if they comply with medical device regulations. A 2025 systematic review in the British Journal of Dermatology evaluated the efficacy and safety of exosome therapies licensed under MHRA and NICE guidelines, finding high efficacy and satisfaction (89%).

Does it work for rosacea? +

Yes, especially polynucleotides and exosomes, which have powerful anti-inflammatory effects. They calm redness, reduce sensitivity and strengthen the skin barrier. It is one of the best treatments for reactive skin.

Can I have these treatments if I have dark skin? +

Yes, perfectly. Unlike lasers which can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV-VI), regenerative medicine is safe for all skin tones. There is no risk of dark spots if applied correctly.

✨ Want to know if regenerative medicine is right for you?

Book your free medical assessment and we'll create a personalised plan for you.

© ABesthetic Ltd. Triple professional registration in the United Kingdom, Colombia, and Spain. Over 25 years of clinical experience.

📌 Updated for 2026. Based on scientific evidence and MHRA/NICE guidelines.