Exosomes & Hair Growth: Latest Scientific Insights | Māra

24 June 2025

Exosomes: The Next Generation of Hair Growth Therapy?

Hair loss affects millions, and the search for effective treatments is ongoing. One new regenerative therapy gaining significant attention is the use of exosomes. What exactly are exosomes, and what does science say about their efficacy for hair loss?

What Are Exosomes?

Exosomes are tiny extracellular vesicles (30-150 nm) released by various cell types, including stem cells. They are packed with growth factors, proteins, and nucleic acids, serving as crucial communicators between cells[1]. In the context of hair growth, they can help regenerate hair follicles and reactivate the anagen (growth) phase[1].

How Do Exosomes Work for Hair Loss?

Exosomes promote hair growth through several scientifically supported mechanisms[1]:

Stimulate Cell Proliferation: Exosomes encourage the multiplication of hair follicle cells and dermal papilla cells, which are essential for hair growth.
Activate Signaling Pathways: They activate key signaling pathways like the Wnt/beta-Catenin and PI3K/Akt pathways, which play crucial roles in hair follicle development and regeneration.
Promote Angiogenesis: Exosomes foster the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), improving blood supply to the scalp and optimizing nutrient and oxygen delivery to hair follicles.
Reduce Inflammation: Their anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce scalp inflammation, which is often associated with hair loss.

What Does Science Say? Clinical Results and Studies

The efficacy of exosomes for hair loss is increasingly supported by clinical research. A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2023, which analyzed 16 studies (including one human clinical trial), concluded that exosome therapy significantly improves hair density and thickness in patients with androgenetic alopecia. The treatment was also found to be well-tolerated, with no serious adverse effects[2]. Learn more about the various scientific causes of hair loss and how they manifest in our detailed overview article.

Quantified Results from Studies:

Increased Hair Density: The systematic review (2023) indicated that exosome treatment led to an increase in hair density ranging from +11.1% to +24.2%[2]. A prospective clinical trial with 30 male subjects experiencing androgenetic alopecia showed an increase in average hair density from 139.7 to 153.6 after 4 weeks (+10%) and to 157 after 12 weeks (+12.5%), both statistically significant[3]. Another study, focusing on conditioned medium from hair follicle-derived mesenchymal stem cells (which contain exosomes), demonstrated a +16% increase in hair density after 12 weeks in a mouse model[4].
Increased Hair Thickness: In the same mouse model study, hair thickness increased from approximately 57.5 μm to 64 μm, representing an 11% gain within 12 weeks[4].

How Is Exosome Therapy Administered?

Exosomes for hair regeneration are typically administered via local injections into the scalp or through topical application. Specific protocols vary depending on the exosome product and clinical study design. For instance, in one Phase I/IIa trial[3], a single subcutaneous injection was used, while other protocols might involve multiple sessions over weeks or months. The number and frequency of applications are individually tailored to the patient and the chosen product.

Safety and Tolerability of Exosome Therapy

Based on current clinical data, exosome therapy is considered safe. The 2023 systematic review[2] reported no serious adverse events. Mild and temporary side effects such as redness, slight irritation, or swelling at the injection site were occasionally observed but resolved quickly.

Conclusion: The Future of Hair Growth Treatment at Māra

Exosome therapy represents a highly promising and scientifically supported next-generation regenerative treatment option for hair loss. Current clinical studies demonstrate significant improvements in hair density and thickness, coupled with an excellent safety profile.

At Māra, we leverage the latest advancements in regenerative medicine to offer you innovative and tailored solutions for your hair loss concerns.