Table 1 Summary of clinical studies on the effect of conditioned medium of mesenchymal stem cells on skin rejuvenation

El-Domyati et al., 2020 [16]

Investigation of facial skin rejuvenation using conditioned media of stem cells along with skin needling

The study involved 10 patients (3 males and 7 females) aged between 41 and 60 years. Treatment was administered to both sides of the face using skin needling, with a two-week interval between each session for a total of five sessions. After the needling, AF-MSC-CM (1 ml) was applied topically for 15 min on the right side only. The Dermaroller used had 8 rows with 192 needles, each 1 mm long, a needle diameter of 0.25 mm at the point of penetration, and a roller head diameter of 20 mm. The follow-up period lasted one month after the final session.

five-point scale was used

There was a significant improvement in skin condition with the combination therapy (AF-MSC-CM and dermaroller), showing a 60.6% enhancement, compared to the other side treated only with dermaroller (33.2%). The side receiving the combination therapy displayed substantial regeneration of skin structures. Both treated sides showed a significant increase in epidermal thickness. Overall, the combination of AF-MSC-CM and skin needling proved to be more effective in managing facial aging than skin needling alone.

LI X, 2024 [20]

Comparison of two different topical formulations of growth factors derived from human fibroblasts or human adipose tissue

The study involved 20 women over the age of 18. Topical treatments were applied randomly, with one half of the face treated with human fibroblast-derived growth factors and the other half with growth factors from facial mesenchymal stem cells. The experimental products were applied twice daily for a duration of three months. Follow-up assessments were conducted at 1, 2, and 3 months.

standardized 5-point scale

Both growth factor formulas resulted in a significant reduction in facial wrinkles, with improvements in rhytids, skin texture, and firmness ranging from 29–41%. Patients reported progress between 38% and 54%. There was no statistical difference between the two experimental products. The study highlights the effectiveness of local growth factors as a treatment option.

Samizadeh, 2021 [23]

Evaluation of anti-aging effects of secretory factors of endothelial progenitor cells differentiated from human embryonic stem cells (hESC-EPC)

Twenty-five women, aged 41 to 64 years, received treatment on the right and left sides of their faces, with each side randomly assigned to either hESC-EPC conditioned medium (CM) or saline solution. A 0.25 mm microneedle roller was used to enhance epidermal penetration. The treatments were administered over five sessions, each spaced two weeks apart.

Use of Mexameter and Visiometer and patient satisfaction index

The combination treatment of microneedling and hESC-EPC CM showed significant improvements in pigmentation and wrinkles compared to microneedling alone. One participant experienced mild desquamation. The hESC-EPC secretory agents contributed to the improvement of skin aging signs, highlighting their potential for skin rejuvenation.

Spataro, 2023 [19]

Evaluation of efficacy and safety of microneedle fractional RF for skin rejuvenation with the synergistic effect of conditioned medium of stem cells, which consists of a large number of growth factors and cytokines

Fifteen female patients underwent treatment on one side of their face with fractional RF alone, while the other side was treated with a combination of fractional RF and stem cell-conditioned medium. The fractional RF microneedle device used had a disposable tip with five pairs of non-insulated microneedle electrodes in a 10 mm² area, with electrodes extending from 0.5 to 3 mm below the skin surface (maximum voltage of 40 volts). The treatments were carried out in three sessions, each spaced 4 weeks apart, with a follow-up period of 4 weeks after the final treatment.

Use of physician’s global assessment and patient satisfaction index

Clinical improvements were noted on both sides of all patients’ faces, including enhanced hydration, melanin, and erythema index. Notably, there was a significant reduction in skin roughness following treatment with stem cell-conditioned medium. Additionally, there was a marked increase in skin thickness and collagen content. The treatment was associated with minimal side effects.

kim, 2018 [21]

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a 10% cryo-preserved USC-CM cream in improving skin parameters such as dermal density and wrinkles.

The study involved 22 female volunteers aged 18–55 who applied a 10% cryo-preserved USC-CM cream daily for four weeks.

Assessment of dermal density and skin wrinkles, including measurements of the maximum peak-to-valley value (Rmax) and maximum profile peak-height (Rp).

The study reported no irritation, stinging, or adverse reactions. Dermal density significantly increased by 2.46%, and skin wrinkles in the eye-end area were notably reduced, with significant decreases in Rmax and Rp values.