Industry Talk

Stem cells are essential for skin renewal. They work best with growth factors, which signal stem cells to renew collagen, elastin, and epithelial cells at targeted locations. Researchers have found that when these stem cells are topically applied to skin, they also magnify the effects of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.  

Stem cells are not only involved in renewal, but they can also help protect existing cells from damage. Plant stem cells are used in anti-aging skin care, since plants have evolved natural mechanisms that ward off the damaging effects of environmental stress. With high concentrations of antioxidants, plant stem cells help neutralize free radicals that cause photo damage and other signs of premature aging.  

Research supported by clinical trials has shown that plant stem cells help deliver moisture deep into skin, plump away wrinkles, minimize inflammation, restore elasticity and firmness, and protect skin against damage from UVA and UVB rays.  

How are stem cells formulated into skincare products? 

Plant stem cells are cultured in labs where scientists and formulators have the capability to control the purity, safety, standardization, and quantity of the stem cells produced by the plant, away from contaminants like pollution or pesticides. Antioxidants and other nutrients in the stem cells of the plant can therefore be more powerful when cultured for use in skin care products, and their molecular potency can be multiplied a thousandfold.  

To obtain stem cells in the lab, the plant is slightly wounded by a small cut. The plant starts to heal itself by creating active substances that are non-programmed, “blank” cells. These have the potential to develop into various cell types that can perform different functions. A tiny bit of this tissue is extracted from the actively dividing cells of the host plant as it regenerates itself. Unlimited stem cells can then be cultured from the original.  

What are the benefits of using plant stem cells? 

Plant-derived stem cells are used in skin care formulations for their anti-wrinkle, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging benefits. Plus, plant stem cells are becoming more prevalent in skincare industry because of the increasing demand for sustainability as well as efficacy in skincare. 

What are some of the best stem cell ingredients and their target solution? 

Different Le Mieux serums utilize one or more of the best plant-derived stem cells, which include the following: 

• Alpine rose is used to help delay skin aging by protecting vital skin stem cells. 
• Argan improves tone, elasticity, and density while helping encourage skin’s natural repair process.  
• Edelweiss is known for inhibiting collagenase, which limits collagen degradation and loss of firmness. 
• Gotu kola assists in reducing the appearance of redness while encouraging collagen synthesis. 
• Grape defends against signs of skin aging caused by exposure to UVA and UBV rays. 
• Swiss apple is one of the first plant-derived stem cells used in skin care to help encourage cell renewal and reduce the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet.  

StemCell EGF contains Alpine Rose stem cells and Argan stem cells, which work in tandem with growth factor, wrinkle-reducing peptides, and moisture boosters to visibly improve the appearance of stressed or aging skin. 

Can you describe your StemCell EGF product? What skin types best benefit from it? 

StemCell EGF is a super-potent, skin rejuvenating serum with Alpine rose and Argan stem cells, growth factor, and skin-transforming peptides working together to target fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging facial contours. An encapsulated delivery system with transdermal sonication technology allows for deeper nutrient absorption to encourage collagen synthesis, bolster the skin barrier, and improve skin’s natural glow.  

StemCell EGF is geared toward dry, normal skin types dealing with dehydration, dullness, lines and wrinkles, and sagging. Professional estheticians often choose the 8-ounce pump bottle to use for back bar, and the set of 3 ampoules to recommend for their clients’ home care. 

How does this product differentiate from other Stem Cell products on the market? 

StemCell EGF does not contain one hero ingredient, but includes 2 plant-derived stem cells (Alpine Rose and Argan) that work in tandem with epidermal growth factor, wrinkle-reducing peptides, and moisture boosters. The encapsulated delivery system with transdermal sonication technology allows for deeper nutrient absorption for actives to reach targeted areas to maximize visible benefits.   

What do you believe holds for the future of Stem Cells? 

Research is ongoing. It’s important to keep in mind that for stem cells to be effective in skin care and not just sit on top of the skin, they need to be microencapsulated in order to be absorbed through the stratum corneum for anti-aging or repair benefits. Fortunately, every day there are more advances in technology, including delivery systems, which will make stem cells become increasingly prevalent in powerful skin care formulations.