Stem Cell Beauty
By Jessica Conway, GalTime.com
With all the hype surrounding stem cells, it's no wonder beauticians and scientists alike have begun exploring their potential cosmetic benefits. New products on the market claim to either mimic stem cell function, or use plant stem cells to restore and rejuvenate aging skin. We decided to find out if stem cell beauty is fact or fiction - and Dr. Debra Jaliman with the American Academy of Dermatology gave us the real story.
What are stem cells? Think of stem cells as repair cells. They're responsible for renewing other cells in the body, like those in our skin. This is why they've caught the attention of scientists, doctors and medical researchers.
Related: Secrets to a Glowing Complexion
Are stem cell beauty products made from actual human stem cells? No. Stem cell beauty products claim to either stimulate the stem cells within your skin to help reverse signs of aging, or are formulated with plant stem cells as an alternative.
What products offer stem cell treatment now? Skincare products like Dior Capture XP Ultimate Wrinkle Creme ($110), Dior Capture Totale Multi-Perfection Creme ($130), Lancome Absolue Precious Cells ($155), and Kate Somerville CytoCell Dermal Energizing Treatment ($150) claim to mimic stem cell functions and rejuvenate facial tissue.
Stemcellin Serum ($79) guarantees similar effects, but contains apple stem cells. Other products that are formulated with plant stem cells include La Prairie Cellular Power Infusion ($475), Sonya Dakar Nutrasphere Stem Cell Transformer ($195), StriVectin SD Eye Concentrate ($59), Goldfaden Alpine Rose Stem Cell Cream ($75), Chantecaille Biodynamic Lifting Neck Cream ($295), and Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Repair Moisturizer ($65).
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And how do dermatologists feel about stem cell beauty? Dr. Jaliman says that right now, research on stem cell beauty products is limited, and she hasn't heard of any creams that work. But a girl can dream, right?!
How could stem cells be used for beauty products in the future? As we get older, the cell replication process slows down, creating wrinkles and age lines. Dr. Jaliman says that increasing the number of stem cells in aging skin would create a more youthful look. Though scientists have not yet discovered how to execute the process, she believes that increased research on stem cell beauty could provide beneficial information in the future.
What's your take on stem cell beauty products? Have you tried any that work?
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