Complications After Exosome Treatment for Aesthetic Skin Rejuvenation
William J. Nahm, Sukruthi Thunga, Jane Yoo
Abstract
ABSTRACT Background Exosomes have gained significant attention in aesthetic dermatology for their potential in skin rejuvenation. Despite numerous studies investigating the use of exosomes in aesthetic applications, no adverse events have been reported thus far. This case series presents patients with noticeable adverse effects following the application of exosomes to the skin for aesthetic purposes primarily in South Korea, including one patient residing in Australia. [Correction added on 4 February 2025, after first online publication: In the Abstract, one patient residing in Australia has been included.] Methods A consortium of concerned aesthetic dermatologists from South Korea provided a case series of patients who developed complications after receiving exosome treatments for skin rejuvenation. The case series included seven female patients, ranging in age from 26 to 37 years old, who developed delayed‐onset granulomatous lesions at the treatment sites. [Correction added on 4 February 2025, after first online publication: the number of patients has been changed from eight to seven females; the age range has been changed from 26 to 52 years old to 26 to 37 years old.] Results All patients in the case series developed erythematous, indurated papules or nodules at the sites of exosome injections, with onset ranging from 2 weeks to 3 months posttreatment. Histopathological examination of biopsied lesions revealed necrotizing granulomas not related to mycobacterial infections. The patients' response to topical and oral steroids, as well as other treatments, varied. Conclusion Although exosome‐based therapies hold great promise in aesthetic dermatology, this case series highlights the potential for delayed‐onset granulomatous complications following exosome treatments for skin rejuvenation. Standardized protocols for exosome isolation and purification, as well as rigorous safety and efficacy standards, are needed to ensure the successful implementation of exosome‐based products in clinical settings.