What are stem cells?
Stem cells are specific cells that regenerate and repair tissue and organs in the body.
In medicine, stem cells have been a controversial topic for many years. Embryonic stem cells are essentially “unprogrammed” cells that have the capability of being transformed into organ or tissue-specific cells, giving them a vast potential in reparative medicine.
Why are they important in skincare?
Stem cells are essential for tissue maintenance and repair to keep the skin looking healthy. Stem cell exhaustion is regarded as being the primary cause of aging. Therefore, if we can help preserve the skin’s stem cells and delay their exhaustion, the skin will maintain a more youthful appearance.
Fast regenerating tissues, such as the epidermis, are particularly dependent on their stem cells. However, their content in the skin is only 2 to 7%. Stem cells have a limited life expectancy and they’re at risk of premature death, due to intrinsic or extrinsic stress factors (UV radiation and other environmental factors).
Why plant-based stem cells?
Clinical studies concluded that stem cells from the Uttwiler Spätlauber, a rare Swiss apple variety, are rich in epigenetic factors and metabolites, which ensure the longevity of skin cells. They have been shown to protect stem cells in the skin, while also delaying the senescence of hair follicles.
Similar to skin stem cells, plant stem cells contain specific components that regulate genetic activity and function of the cells. Plant stem cell extract provides important nutrients to human stem cells. Those nutrients improve the viability and health of human skin stem cells.
The PhytoCellTec™ Malus Domestica (the trade name of these plant-based stem cells), which was recognized at the UN Conference Rio+20 as being an Eco breakthrough, delivers a highly sustainable sourcing of plant based stem cells .PhytoCellTec™ Malus Domestica was the first ingredient based on plant stem cells on the cosmetic market.
The effect of stem cells on the skin
Stimulating aging skin stem cells has been shown to lessen the appearance of unsightly wrinkles.
Clinical trials show that PhytoCellTec™ Malus Domestica increases the longevity of skin cells, resulting in skin that has a more youthful and radiant appearance.