The big Kim Kardashian-Kanye West wedding was in the news recently, and apart from the glitzy venue and outfits, the buzz was also about the pre-wedding preps the bride-to-be underwent, one of them being the stem cell facial, that reportedly cost over $500! But Kim's is not the only one, there has been talk of stem cells in medicinal and beauty therapies. Here's more on this...
What it's about
Skin care contains either plant or human stemcells and the latter are able to produce copies over long a period of time.
Explains cosmetologist Dr Rashmi Shetty, "Blood is pulled out from a person. It is processed with a few ingredients and then centrifuged at a particular speed to get the growth factors. The blood is then injected into the person."
Says cosmetic dermatologist Dr Sadaf Rangooni, "The cells have two key components, which play a role in the growth of new cells and the production of collagen, elastin, etc. When applied to the skin, these help firm wrinkles and slow the development of new lines". Adds dermatologist Dr Apratim Goel, "As we age, there is slowing as well as breakdown of our skin collagen, blood vessels as well as other supporting connective tissues. When stem cells are applied on the skin along with electroporation and ultrasound devices, it reduces cell damage as well as starts new tissue formation. Increased blood supply is a part of the entire rejuvenation process, so it's like a renewal of the skin."
It's risky too
Both the safety as well as efficacy have been questioned and it's essential that the treatment is done under supervision of a skin expert. "The topically applied stem cells are usually derived from plant cell sources and there are not many side effects reported, but most of the safety doubts or questions are with the systemic injectable stem cells and that too of foetal or animal origin. Topically applied stem cells are usually safe. However, cases of allergy in the form of itching and redness has been noted," she warns.
Dr Shetty also has a warning, "Stem cells are being used in beauty treatments but you have to be careful of the source you pick up. You cannot use stem cells or growth factor from an unknown line (stem cells that can grow something else). The simplest way is to derive cells from your own body fluid, but to maintain safety always go to a credible doctor. There is also a lot still happening in this field and the subject
Can it help hair growth?
"I have used these cells on a few patients and they have shown to help with thinning hair and balding. What happens is, the cells are injected into the scalp. It stimulates the hair and even makes individual hair look healthier," adds Dr Shetty.
Stem cell therapy is said to be used for wrinkles, fine lines, dry skin, acne scars, skin lightening and more. But scientists say further research is needed to prove the claim that this can diminish wrinkles and other ageing issues.
When to start
Not before 25, but people can age differently and some may need it only after 40. It's best to judge from the way your skin looks, so don't generalise, she says.
How often to do this?
Every four to six weeks, which is the skin renewal time frame. And do it just two to three times a year.
Watch out!
Stem cell skin therapies should not be performed on those with infection or inflammatory conditions of the skin. It is not recommended for pregnant or breast feeding women, warns Dr Rangooni.
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