Why should you care about stem cells?
Our face undergoes a complex aging process that is influenced by internal and external factors. While some aspects are unavoidable, fortunately many of the aging processes can be prevented, delayed or even reversed. In recent years, highly innovative stem cell technologies have become available to consumers. These were developed by both the cosmetics industry and plastic surgeons. Stem cell therapy has proven to be a successful anti-aging treatment.
What are stem cells?
Stem cells have the unique ability to innovate and differentiate into different cell types during the early stages of development and growth. This makes them an important part of tissue regeneration. Through their immortal ability to renew, they repair tissue, with each division having the potential to either maintain their stem cell identity or transform into a specialised cell type, e.g. in muscle cells, red blood cells or skin cells.
Different stem cell types and stem cell products:
Mesenchymal stem cells
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are known for their potential healing power in various diseases. They play an essential role in building and maintaining the health of connective tissue throughout the body and also have the ability to differentiate into different cell types.
Fat stem cells
Mesenchymal stem cells derived from adipose tissue, or adipose derived stem cells (ADSC), form the basis for state-of-the-art treatments in aesthetic surgery. These fat stem cells stimulate fibroblasts, special connective tissue cells that play a key role in tissue regeneration and wound healing. The collagen and elastin produced by the fibroblasts enables the rejuvenation of the skin and deeper soft tissue, promoting a youthful and fresh appearance.
Hematopoietic stem cells
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), or “blood-forming” cells, can be obtained from bone marrow concentrate collected from the patient’s iliac crest. In addition to the HSCs, the bone marrow concentrate also contains MSCs and other differentiated cell types. Like fat stem cells, the cells found in bone marrow are easily accessible, allowing for a rapid, minimally invasive and safe procedure for stem cell collection.
Stem cell secretome
The stem cell secretome includes all proteins and other signaling factors that stem cells release to the outside to communicate with other cells. These include growth factors, hormone-like compounds, lipids, RNA (copies of the genetic code), cytokines (cell signaling molecules) and immunomodulatory substances. These are enclosed in tiny carrier vesicles called microvesicles, or even smaller versions called exosomes.
The effectiveness of fat stem cells in facial rejuvenation
Adipose stem cells are attracting attention for their potent effects in facial rejuvenation . These cells have the penetrating ability to promote the formation of new blood vessels and stimulate tissue regeneration through the release of various growth factors that are important for fibroblasts, endothelial cells (cells that line blood vessels) and anti-inflammatory processes. In addition, they play a crucial role in combating tissue damage caused by UVB light rays and harmful reactive oxygen species by releasing antioxidants and cytokines.
Recent studies have shown that adipose stem cells are widely distributed in subcutaneous tissue, suggesting their role in skin repair and wound healing. Once injected, adipose stem cells produce remarkable improvements in cell density, moisture content, capillary count, and overall appearance of the skin. The comprehensive effect highlights the diverse and powerful properties of fat stem cells in skin rejuvenation, improving the health, vitality and aesthetics of the skin.
The promise of fat stem cells for hair growth
Fat stem cells are also effective for hair renewal . Their effectiveness is greater in younger people, or in the early stages of hair loss, who may not yet need a hair transplant . The treatment is also particularly suitable for people for whom a hair transplant is not an option.
If used early, fat stem cells offer a good treatment option for androgenetic alopecia due to their regenerative properties. The stem cells create a favorable environment for hair growth by secreting growth factors that activate the local stem cells in the hair follicles. In addition, the fat stem cells play a role in extending the hair growth phase.
Stem cell products derived from adipose tissue must be GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certified to ensure their safe therapeutic use. GMP certification also allows for long-term storage so they are available for later use.
Why should you store your stem cells?
Stem cell storage is available to almost everyone, with a few exceptions for certain infectious diseases, drug abuse and certain types of cancer. Scientific studies indicate that treatment with stem cells taken from younger donors produces better treatment results. This is due to the higher production of high-quality stem cells in younger people. The stem cells can be stored for longer periods of time without loss of quality and can develop into a wider range of cell types. It therefore makes sense to store your stem cells when you are in the prime of your life.
Repeated treatment with one-time mini-liposuction
Stem cell banking has the advantage of eliminating the need for repeated liposuction and providing more convenient and less invasive access to stem cells. Storing and multiplying these valuable cells also gives you a proactive tool for managing your health, with the possibility of future innovative treatment for various conditions.
There are legal restrictions in Switzerland on the use of stem cells, products made from human cells and autologous tissue transplants. I would be happy to explain this to you in a consultation.
Book a consultation and discuss the benefits of stem cell therapy and stem cell banking with me!