Exosome mesotherapy (thinning hair and hair regeneration medicine)

Hello, I am a doctor at Smart Skin Clinic, a cosmetic dermatology clinic.

Do you have any of these questions or concerns?

In this article, our cosmetic dermatologist will provide a detailed introduction to exosome mesotherapy, which is gaining attention as a treatment method for thinning hair, from a professional standpoint. Focusing particularly on the treatment of thinning hair in women, we will explain it in an easy-to-understand manner.

*If you want to know the rates, you can also jump right to the table of contents below.

What is Exosome Mesotherapy?

Exosome mesotherapy sounds like a difficult name, doesn't it? But it is actually a very simple treatment.

In brief,Treatment in which exosomes are injected directly into the scalp using an injection device.It is. This is a very promising treatment, especially for women suffering from thinning hair.

Definition and Characteristics of Exosomes

What is an exosome? Many people may wonder.

Exosomes are like tiny pouches that are released from the cells of our body. They are about 30-150 nm in size, about 1/10,000th the thickness of a hair.

These small pouches are packed with proteins, RNA, and other substances necessary for cell-to-cell communication. These substances play an important role in our bodies.

The Potential of Exosomes in the Treatment of Thinning Hair in Women

You may be wondering how exosomes can help in the treatment of thinning hair.

In fact, exosomes have the following wonderful possibilities:

1. Activation of hair follicle stem cellsExosomes: Growth factors and cytokines contained in exosomes awaken sleeping hair follicle stem cells and promote the growth of new hair.
2. Improvement of hair follicle environment: Exosomes help to create the environment around the hair growth. This creates conditions that make it easier for hair to grow.
3. Suppression of inflammation: In some cases of thinning hair in women, inflammation is involved. Exosomes have anti-inflammatory properties and may be able to approach this problem.
4. Effect on hormonal balance: A substance called microRNA in exosomes may regulate the expression of hormone receptors in hair follicle cells. This may counteract the hormonal imbalance that causes female pattern baldness.

Like this,Exosome Mesotherapy is a multifaceted approach to treating thinning hair in women(*It is also effective for men). Unlike conventional drug therapy or surgical treatment, it is attracting attention as a treatment that enhances the body's natural regenerative ability.

Let us now take a closer look at female pattern baldness.

Female pattern baldness (FAGA)

Have you ever heard of "female pattern baldness?"

In fact, it is one of the causes of thinning hair that many women suffer from.

Female Androgenetic Alopecia (FAGA) is a chronic hair loss condition caused by a complex combination of genetic factors and hormonal imbalance. It sounds a bit complicated, but in simple terms'Hereditary and hormonal influences can cause hair to thin.'That is what I mean.

Symptoms and Causes of FAGA

The main symptoms of FAGA include

• Gradual thinning and thinning of hair on top of the head and at the parting of the hairline
• Receding frontal hairline (but not as pronounced as male pattern baldness)
• Decreased overall hair volume

The main causes are thought to include the following

1. Genetic factors: Certain genes increase the sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens (male hormones).
2. Hormonal imbalance: a decrease in estrogen and a relative increase in androgens can affect this.
3. Aging: As we age, the function of hair follicles declines.
4. Stress: Chronic stress can negatively affect the hair growth cycle.
5. Nutritional deficiencies: deficiencies of certain vitamins and minerals can affect hair health.

Difference between AGA and FAGA

Male pattern baldness (AGA) and female pattern baldness (FAGA), while similar, are actually different. Let us look at the main differences:

1. Hair loss patterns:
   • AGA: Characterized by an M-shaped receding hairline and thinning hair at the crown of the head.
   • FAGA: The entire top of the head gradually thins, often in a form known as the Christmas tree pattern.
2. Rate of progression:
   • AGA: Tends to progress relatively quickly.
   • FAGA: Often progresses more slowly than AGA.
3. Hormonal effects:
   • AGA: Primarily affected by dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
   • FAGA: In addition to DHT, a decrease in estrogen is also a major contributor.
4. Genetic factors:
   • AGA: It is believed to be influenced mainly by maternal heredity.
   • FAGA: Genetic influences from both parents are more complex.
5. Treatment responsiveness:
   • AGA: 5-alpha reductase inhibitors such as finasteride are effective.
   • FAGA: The use of hormone therapy requires careful judgment, and local therapy is the mainstay of treatment.

Psychological impact of FAGA on women

FAGA is not just a cosmetic problem. It can have a major psychological impact on women.

1. Low self-esteem: Hair is often considered a symbol of a woman's beauty and youth, so thinning hair can easily lead to a loss of confidence.
2. Social anxiety: Many people feel anxiety and embarrassment in social situations because of their noticeably thinning hair.
3. Depression: Chronic hair loss can cause stress and depression.
4. Body image distortion: As hair loss progresses, self-image can easily become negative.
5. Impact on relationships: Concern about thinning hair may lead to avoidance of social interaction.
6. Impact on career: lack of confidence in appearance may lead to reluctance in terms of work.

Considering these psychological effects, the treatment of FAGA has the importance of not only increasing hair growth, but also improving the overall quality of life (QOL) of the patient. Exosome mesotherapy may also contribute to resolving these psychological issues through effective hair regeneration.

Let's now take a closer look at how exosome mesotherapy works.

How Exosome Mesotherapy Works

How does exosome mesotherapy make my hair healthier?

I will explain how it works in simple terms.

Origin of exosomes (ADSCs, DPCs, etc.)

Exosomes are produced by a variety of cells. The main sources of exosomes used in the treatment of hair loss are as follows

1. Adipose-Derived Stem Cells (ADSCs)
   • Characteristics: Contains abundant growth factors and cytokines.
   • Advantages: Relatively easy collection and mass culture.
2. Bone Marrow-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BM-MSCs)
   • Characteristics: Has strong regenerative and immunomodulatory properties.
   • Advantages: Systemic regenerative effects can be expected.
3. Amniotic Fluid Stem Cells (AFSCs)
   • Characteristics: Fetal-derived stem cells with high proliferative and differentiation potential.
   • Advantages:High regenerative capacity due to youthful cell originPossibility.

Exosomes extracted from these cells have different characteristics and contain various growth factors, cytokines, and microRNAs. It is important to select the best type of exosomes according to the purpose of treatment and the patient's condition.

Effect on women's hair growth cycle

Exosomes affect each stage of the female hair growth cycle and contribute to the improvement of thinning hair. Let's take a look at how it affects you specifically:

1. Prolonged growth phase (anagen phase)
   • Growth factors (e.g., VEGF, FGF, IGF-1) contained in exosomes promote follicle cell proliferation.
   • Promotes differentiation of hair follicle stem cells by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
2. Delayed regression phase (catagen phase)
   • Prolongs the life of hair follicle cells by supplying anti-apoptotic factors.
   • Suppression of TGF-β signaling delays the transition to the regressive phase.
3. Shortening of the resting period (telogen phase)
   • Activation of hair follicle stem cells initiates a new growth cycle earlier.
   • Improves papilla cell function and promotes the formation of new hair.
4. Improvement of hair follicle microenvironment
   • Improves nutrient supply to hair follicles by supplying angiogenic factors.
   • Anti-inflammatory action suppresses inflammation around the hair follicle.
5. Regulation of hormone sensitivity
   • It regulates the expression of androgen receptors and reduces the effects of DHT (dihydrotestosterone).
   • Promotes the expression of estrogen-related factors and enhances the protective effect of female hormones.

Through these combined actions, Exosome Mesotherapy provides a comprehensive approach to women's thinning hair. Unlike conventional drug therapy, it activates the body's own regenerative abilities, which allows for a more natural and lasting effect.

Further,The action of exosomes has a positive impact not only on hair growth, but also on overall scalp health. Improved scalp blood flow and reduced inflammation contribute to long-term hair health.

Let us now take a closer look at the expected benefits of exosome therapy for FAGA.

Expected Effects of Exosome Therapy for FAGA

Exosome mesotherapy is expected to be effective in multiple aspects in the treatment of FAGA.More comprehensive and sustained improvement compared to conventional treatment methodsThe first is that it is a very good idea to use the same type of equipment as the second.

Increased hair density

Exosome therapy can be expected to increase hair density through the following mechanisms

1. Activation of dormant hair follicles
   • Growth factors contained in exosomes stimulate dormant hair follicle stem cells.
   • Promotes the initiation of a new hair cycle and increases the number of active hair follicles.
2. Promotes formation of new hair follicles
   • Activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway induces the formation of new hair follicles.
   • Promotes differentiation of hair follicle stem cells and supports new hair growth.
3. Optimization of the hair follicle microenvironment
   • Improves blood flow around hair follicles by supplying angiogenic factors (e.g., VEGF).
   • The supply of nutrients and oxygen is improved, creating an environment in which more hair follicles are activated.
4. Synchronization of the hair cycle
   • Uniform transmission of growth signals by exosomes synchronizes the growth cycle of hair follicles.
   • As a result, it promotes the growth of denser hair.

Improvement of hair thickness

Exosome therapy has the potential to improve hair thickness through the following mechanisms

1. Activation of hair matrix cells
   • Promotes proliferation and differentiation of hair matrix cells by supplying growth factors (IGF-1, FGF, etc.).
   • More keratin-producing cells are formed, leading to the production of thicker hair.
2. Enhancement of papilla cell function
   • Factors contained in exosomes stimulate hair papilla cells and improve their function.
   • Growth signals from papilla cells are enhanced, assisting in the formation of thicker hair.
3. Promotes keratin synthesis
   • MicroRNAs in exosomes regulate the expression of keratin synthesis-related genes.
   • The result is stronger, more voluminous hair.
4. Improvement of hair follicle structure
   • It promotes the production of collagen and elastin and strengthens the structure of hair follicles.
   • The foundation for thicker hair is developed.

Comparison with conventional FAGA treatments

Exosome mesotherapy is expected to have the following advantages over conventional FAGA treatments

1. Comparison with topical minoxidil
   • Exosomes: promote more natural hair growth and long-term effects.
   • Minoxidil: It has an immediate effect, but it requires continuous use and tends to lose its effectiveness when discontinued.
2. Comparison with Low Power Laser Therapy (LLLT)
   • Exosomes: provide growth factors directly and have a more powerful regenerative effect.
   • LLLT: Activates hair follicle metabolism but does not directly supply growth factors.
3. Comparison with hair transplant surgery
   • Exosomes: non-invasive and may improve overall hair quality.
   • Hair transplantation surgery: has an immediate effect, but is invasive and does not improve the quality of existing hair.
4. Comparison with hormone therapy
   • Exosomes: promote hair growth without directly altering the hormonal balance.
   • Hormone therapy: It has systemic effects and there's a high risk of side effects.
5. Comparison with Nutritional Supplements
   • Exosomes: act directly on hair follicles and provide more effective delivery of nutrient factors.
   • Nutritional supplements: improve overall nutritional status, but have limited direct effect on hair follicles.

Exosome Mesotherapy is notable for its multifaceted approach. It does not merely promote hair growth, but improves the overall health of the scalp, with long-lasting and sustainable results.The patient's own cells are not required for the treatment. In addition, the use of exosomes derived from the patient's own cells may be a safer treatment option with a lower risk of allergic reactions.

*Please keep in mind that the effectiveness may vary depending on the individual's condition and the degree of hair thinning.

Therefore, in treating FAGA, a detailed evaluation of each patient's situation and an appropriate combination of exosome mesotherapy and conventional treatment methods may yield optimal results.

Let's now take a closer look at the exosome procedure for women.

Exosome treatment method

The procedure of exosome mesotherapy is important for effective and safe treatment of thinning hair.

Injection methods into the scalp (multi-needle, dermapen, etc.)

There are several options for introducing exosomes into the scalp:

1. multineedle injection
   • Features: Multiple fine needles are used simultaneously for uniform injection.
   • Advantages: Less pain and efficient treatment of large areas.
   • Note: Proper depth adjustment is required.
2. dermapen
   • Features: uses a motorized fine-needle device.
   • Advantages: Precise control of injection depth and uniformity of treatment.
   • Note: Operation requires skill.
3. mesogamous gun
   • Characteristics: A fixed amount of exosomes is injected using an automatic injector.
   • Advantages: shorter treatment time and uniform injection volume are guaranteed.
   • Note: Individual adjustments may be difficult.
4. microneedle patch
   • Characteristics: Patches with fine needles are impregnated with exosomes.
   • Advantages: Almost painless and can be used at home.
   • Note: Deep penetration is more limited than with other methods.

Recommended number/frequency of treatments

The optimal number and frequency of exosome mesotherapy treatments depends on the individual patient's condition and response, but the general guidelines are as follows

1. Initial Intensive Care Phase
   • Frequency: Once every 2 to 4 weeks
   • Duration: 3-6 months
   • Objective: Activation of hair follicles and initiation of a new hair growth cycle
2. maintenance phase
   • Frequency: Once every 1-3 months
   • Duration: Adjusted according to individual response (usually 1 year or longer)
   • Objective: To maintain the improvements achieved and further improve hair quality
3. Long-term follow-up
   • Frequency: Once every 3-6 months
   • Duration: Ongoing
   • Objective: Long-term maintenance of efficacy and prevention of recurrence

Notes:

• It is important to be flexible and adjust according to the individual patient's response and lifestyle.
• Periodic follow-up will be conducted and the treatment plan will be modified as necessary.

Exosome Mesotherapy is an innovative approach that offers new possibilities for the treatment of thinning hair in women. It's expected to bring hope to female patients suffering from FAGA through appropriate treatment methods and personalized protocols. However, since it is still a relatively new treatment method, I need ongoing research and observation on its long-term effectiveness and safety.

Let's now take a closer look at the safety and side effects of exosome therapy.

Thinning hair patterns in women for which exosome mesotherapy is indicated

Thinning hair in women often shows a different pattern than in men, and its causes are more complex.

Exosome mesotherapy has been shown to be effective for a variety of female hair thinning patterns. Let's take a closer look at the main female thinning hair patterns and the indications for exosome mesotherapy.

diffuse alopecia

1. feature
   • The entire top of the head gradually thins.
   • The hairline is often retained.
   • Typical pattern of female pattern baldness (FAGA)It is.
2. Indications for Exosome Therapy
   • Highly adaptable: a holistic approach to extensive hair thinning is possible.
   • Expected effect: Increase in hair density through activation of hair follicle stem cells.
3. Treatment Approach
   • Exosome injections to the entire parietal area.
   • Regular treatments (e.g., once a month) for several months are recommended.

Frontal hair loss

1. feature
   • The hair gradually recedes from the frontal area (forehead hairline).
   • Stress and genetic factors are often involved.
2. Indications for Exosome Therapy
   • Moderate indications: localized treatment is effective.
   • Expected effect: Increased hair density in the frontal area and improvement of the hairline can be expected.
3. Treatment Approach
   • Intensive exosome injections into the frontal region.
   • Potential to increase effectiveness when used in conjunction with micro needling technology.

Parietal hair loss (Christmas tree pattern)

1. feature
   • It is a triangular thinning of hair that gradually spreads from the center of the parietal area.
   • Aging and changes in hormonal balance are the main causes.
2. Indications for Exosome Therapy
   • Highly adaptable: can be treated locally and extensively.
   • Expected effect: Increase in hair density and reduction in the extent of hair thinning.
3. Treatment Approach
   • Radial injections are made from the center of the parietal area.
   • It is important to adjust treatment density according to the degree of hair thinning.

traction alopecia

1. feature
   • This is hair loss caused by chronic traction from hairstyles.
   • It is most often seen at the hairline and on the sides of the head.
2. Indications for Exosome Therapy
   • Moderately adaptive: repair and reactivation of hair follicles can be expected.
   • Expected effect: Recovery of damaged hair follicles and promotion of new hair growth.
3. Treatment Approach
   • Localized injections are made to the affected areas.
   • It is important to use this in conjunction with guidance on improving the hairstyles that cause the problem.
4. important point
   • Removal of the underlying cause (excessive traction) is critical.

alopecia areata

1. feature
   • It is characterized by sudden round or oval alopecia spots.
   • It is a type of autoimmune disease.
2. Indications for Exosome Therapy
   • Experimental stage: There is hope for immunomodulatory effects.
   • Expected effects: Inhibition of inflammation and reactivation of hair follicles.
3. Treatment Approach
   • Direct injection into epilation spots.
   • May be used in combination with immunosuppressive therapy.

Thinning hair after menopause

1. feature
   • It is characterized by overall hair thinning associated with decreased estrogen.
   • Thinning hair on the top and sides of the head is often noticeable.
2. Indications for Exosome Therapy
   • Highly adaptable: Can be used to address follicular dysfunction associated with hormonal changes.
   • Expected effect: Improvement of hair thickness and density.
3. Treatment Approach
   • Exosome injections into the entire scalp.
   • Combination with hormone replacement therapy may be considered.

Exosome mesotherapy can provide improvement for these various female hair thinning patterns.However, each pattern and individual client's situation is different, so treatment from a proper medical examination is important.

Safety Initiatives｜Compliance with the Guidance of the Japanese Society for Regenerative Medicine

Our exosome infusion therapy is performed in accordance with "Guidance on the Clinical Application of Extracellular Vesicles, etc. (1st Edition)" released on April 30, 2024, by the Japanese Society for Regenerative Medicine.

This guidance is an important guide to ensure the safety and efficacy of exosome therapy, and our guidance-based rigorous quality control and safety efforts.

Specific Efforts to Ensure Safety at the Hospital

1. Conduct risk profiling
   • Potential risks associated with treatment are identified and appropriate measures are taken.
2. Rigorous preparation process and quality control
   • Our manufacturing process and quality checks are based on the latest scientific findings.
3. Implementation of appropriate effectiveness verification
   • We continually evaluate the effectiveness of treatments and provide the best possible treatment for our clients.

Your safety is our first priority, and we promise to provide treatment based on the latest scientific findings.

Charge

Price quotes for exosome mesotherapy in Tokyo

Approximately 100,000 to 200,000 yen per visitis the price market in Tokyo. (based on August 2024 survey)

Smart Skin Clinic Fee Schedule

Exosome Mesotherapy [umbilical cord derived].

2cc
Once	79,800 yen
3 sets	224,400 yen (74,800 yen per session)
Set of 5 times	349,000 yen (per time)69,800suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.)
Set of 10	598,000 yen (per time)59,800suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.)

4cc
Once	99,800 yen
3 sets	284,400 yen (94,800 yen per session)
Set of 5 times	449,000 yen (per time)89,800suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.)
Set of 10	798,000 yen (per time)79,800suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.)

6cc
Once	129,800 yen
3 sets	374,400 yen (124,800 yen per session)
Set of 5 times	599,000 yen (per time)119,800suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.)
Set of 10	1,098,000 yen (per time)109,800suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.)

Aftercare｜Care after treatment and daily life

1. Immediate post-care
   • Do not touch the scalp for 4-6 hours immediately after the procedure.
   • Cooling should be performed as needed according to the doctor's instructions.
2. Shampoo and wash hair
   • Usually refrain from washing your hair for 24 hours after the procedure.
   • Then wash your hair while gently massaging your scalp.
3. Exercise and bathing
   • Avoid strenuous exercise for 3-5 days.
   • Avoid hot tubs and saunas for about a week.
4. sunblock
   • Avoid direct sunlight for about 2 weeks after the procedure.
   • Wearing a hat or sun visor when outside is recommended.
5. hair styling
   • Use a hair dryer on a low temperature setting.
   • Please refrain from strong chemical treatments (coloring and perms) for about a month.
6. Improvement of lifestyle
   • Make sure to eat a well-balanced diet.
   • It is important to maintain adequate sleep and moderate exercise.
7. Response to abnormalities
   • Please consult us if you experience any scalp abnormality (severe pain, swelling, redness, etc.).

Safety and Side Effects

Because exosome mesotherapy is a relatively new treatment, it is important to fully understand its safety and potential side effects. Especially in the treatment of thinning hair in women, we need to consider the long-term effects and unique risks.

Known Side Effects

Currently reported side effects of exosome mesotherapy are relatively minor, but include the following

1. Injection site reaction
   • Mild redness and swelling: often resolves spontaneously within 24-48 hours.
   • Itching and mild pain: usually temporary and improves within a few days.
   • Internal bleeding: rare, disappears in 1-2 weeks.
2. Sensory changes in the scalp
   • Temporary numbness or irritability: usually improves within hours to days after treatment.
   • Scalp burning: Rarely reported and can be alleviated with proper aftercare.
3. Temporary effects on hair
   • Initial hair loss: may occur temporarily at the beginning of a new hair growth cycle.
   • Hair texture changes: Hair may become finer in the early stages of treatment, but usually improves.
4. Systemic reaction (extremely rare)
   • Mild fatigue or headache: usually improves spontaneously within 24 hours.
   • Allergic reactions: very rare, but severe cases require immediate medical intervention.

Pregnancy and lactation

The safety of exosome therapy in pregnant and lactating women has not been well established, and the following precautions should be taken

1. Use during pregnancy
   • As a rule, exosome therapy is not recommended during pregnancy.
   • Women planning a pregnancy should also be aware of the potential effects on the fetus.
2. Use during lactation
   • Exosomes are unlikely to be transmitted through breast milk, but there are not enough data.
   • Use during lactation should be carefully considered and treatment should be postponed if possible.
3. Consideration for women of childbearing age
   • Before starting treatment, the possibility of pregnancy is confirmed.
   • The use of appropriate contraceptive methods is recommended during the treatment period.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Can exosome therapy help women with thinning hair?

Yes, exosome therapy can be effective for thinning hair in women. Exosomes activate hair follicle stem cells and promote hair growth. It is also indicated for female-specific thinning hair patterns (e.g., diffuse hair loss and hair loss on the crown of the head).

When will the effects of exosome therapy begin to show?

Although there are individual differences, the initial effect usually begins to appear in about 3-6 months. The effects will gradually appear over a period of 6 to 12 months, in accordance with the hair growth cycle.

Can I receive exosome therapy while pregnant or nursing?

Exosome therapy is not recommended during pregnancy or lactation. The effects on the fetus and infant have not been adequately studied and should be avoided for safety reasons. It is important to consult your doctor before you do this, even if you are planning to become pregnant.

Are there any side effects from exosome therapy?

No serious side effects have been reported in studies to date. Common side effects include mild pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site, which usually improve spontaneously within a few days.

Does exosome therapy work once? Or do I need multiple sessions?

Although a single treatment is effective, multiple treatments are usually recommended. Generally, 3-6 treatments are given every 2-4 weeks, followed by maintenance treatment.

Is there anything I should take care of in my daily hair care after Exosome treatment?

After treatment, it is important to use scalp-friendly shampoos, avoid excessive heat treatment, and maintain a healthy diet. It is also important to protect your scalp from strong sunlight.