Plant stem cells, a spectacular solution for skin rejuvenation

Celulele stem vegetale solutia spectaculoasa de intinerire a pielii

Stem cells are found in both plant and animal organisms. They differ from other cells due to their unusual properties, namely their capacity for proliferation (continuous multiplication) and differentiation into specialized cells (depending on the organ in which they are present). Additionally, stem cells are responsible for the growth and repair of damaged tissues.

Thus, while the body's cells have specific purposes, stem cells do not have a particular role, but they can take the form of all specialized cells.

In recent years, plant stem cell extract has been used in skincare products. Clinical studies have shown that stem cell extract from various plants contributes to increasing skin vitality and provides protection for the stem cells naturally present in the skin. It also improves the skin's barrier function.

Table of Contents

What are stem cells

What are stem cells?

Stem cells are the body's raw materials, meaning cells from which all other cells with specialized functions are generated. Under the right conditions, in the body or in a laboratory, stem cells divide to form more cells called "daughter cells."

These "daughter cells" either become new stem cells or specialized cells with a specific function, such as blood cells, brain cells, muscle cells, heart cells, skin cells, or bone cells. No other cell in the body has the natural ability to generate new types of cells.

Stem cells come from two main sources: adult body tissues and embryos. Scientists are also trying to find suitable ways to develop stem cells from other cells using genetic "reprogramming" techniques.

The ability of stem cells to constantly generate new tissues must be coordinated with the needs of the entire organism. If stem cells do not divide frequently enough, tissues cannot grow or be replaced, a situation that occurs during the process of aging. Also, if stem cells proliferate uncontrollably, they disrupt normal development. As a result, the behavior of stem cells is strictly dependent on signals provided by other cells.

Adult stem cells

Also called tissue-specific or somatic stem cells, adult stem cells exist throughout the body from the moment an embryo develops. These stem cells are found in small numbers in most adult tissues.

Adult stem cells can differentiate indefinitely. This means they can generate different types of cells from the original organ or even fully regenerate the organ. This differentiation is how a skin wound heals or how an organ, such as the liver, for example, can repair itself after an injury.

Embryonic stem cells

Embryonic stem cells come from embryos that are 3 to 5 days old. At this stage, an embryo is called a blastocyst and has approximately 150 cells. These are pluripotent stem cells, meaning they can divide into more stem cells or become any type of cell in the body. This versatility allows embryonic stem cells to be used to regenerate or repair diseased tissues and organs.

Plant stem cells

What are plant stem cells?

Plant stem cells are undifferentiated cells found in plant meristems. They are capable of dividing to produce more stem cells and can also become specialized cells. In case of damage, these plant stem cells help stimulate and regenerate tissue, thereby repairing damage sustained by plants.

Throughout their lives, which can last over a thousand years, plants have this amazing ability to give rise to new organs from the founder cells in their apical meristems (meristematic tissues located at the tip of the stem and roots, involved in plant growth).

In recent years, plant stem cell extract has been used in skincare products. Studies have shown that the active substances extracted from plant stem cells are rich in phytonutrients and have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, protecting the skin from damage caused by external factors.

Sources of plant stem cells

Numerous plants are used to extract beneficial plant stem cells for maintaining skin health, among the most common being:

  • apples;
  • tomatoes;
  • berries;
  • grapes;
  • lilac;
  • rose;
  • ginger.

Cosmetic products containing extracts from these plant sources also have a photoprotective action against damage caused by ultraviolet rays to the skin.

Benefits of plant stem cells

Benefits of plant stem cells for skin care

Plant stem cells are frequently used in skincare products, especially due to their anti-aging properties. The action of plant stem cells on the skin is evident when it comes to restoring youthfulness, affected by the natural aging process.

Most often, a plant stem cell extract is used in skincare products. To be effective, the extract must be in a water-soluble formula and have a low pH, as the extract is naturally acidic.

The use of plant stem cells in skincare was initially studied in Switzerland, using stem cells from Swiss apples. Following research, it was discovered that extracts from plant stem cells reverse the aging process of fibroblasts, which are typical connective tissue cells capable of producing extracellular matrix components and synthesizing collagen. The clinical study, conducted over four weeks with 20 participants, showed that the stem cell extract from Swiss apples significantly reduces fine lines around the eyes. This area is among the most exposed to the risk of aging because the skin is thinner and more sensitive.

Subsequent studies have found that plant stem cells are effective in wound healing and repairing damaged skin, as well as in reducing the appearance of pores. Additionally, plant stem cells have proven effective in reducing the appearance of pigmentation spots and maintaining an even complexion.

These findings show that plant stem cell extracts can be effective in combating the signs of aging, especially due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which protect the skin against free radicals and help prevent fine lines and wrinkles.

Ivatherm has included in its anti-aging products from the UNA range the natural extract of Rhododendron Ferrugineum (Alpine Rose), a rare plant that lives in extreme climatic conditions, at over 2000 m altitude in the Alps. Using these products provides radiance and suppleness to the skin, which will be visibly rejuvenated in two weeks.

Ivatherm products with plant stem cells:

Plant stem cell extracts are more effective when combined with ingredients such as retinol, bakuchiol, and hyaluronic acid. Extracts can also be beneficial when applied after procedures that micro-injure the skin, such as chemical peels, microneedling, and dermaplaning.

In conclusion, plant stem cell extracts can have numerous beneficial effects on the skin, depending on their source. In addition to helping rejuvenate mature skin, they also protect and revitalize the stem cells naturally found in the skin. This stimulates epidermal regeneration, which leads to a slowdown in the aging process.

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