PhytoCellTec Goji Exosomes, 10 g

PhytoCellTec™ Goji Exosomes is an active ingredient in the form of a white powder developed by Swiss company Mibelle Biochemistry, based on a stem cell culture of goji (Lycium barbarum) seedlings. Goji is a plant native to south-eastern Europe and Asia — known primarily for its red-orange berries. This ingredient, however, does not derive from the fruit but from a plant stem cell culture, which represents a technologically distinct approach with its own spectrum of active components.

The basis of the activity are exosomes — small extracellular vesicles approximately 200 nm in size, which cells naturally release as part of intercellular communication. According to scientific research, plant-derived exosomes share a similar structure and function with exosomes found in human skin, and human cells are capable of taking them up and responding to them.

Structure of a plant exosome

Lipid bilayer

Secondary plant metabolites

Lipids

mRNA

Enzymes

miRNA

Transmembrane proteins

An exosome is a carrier that transports active substances between cells.

Source: Mibelle Biochemistry, manufacturer's documentation for PhytoCellTec™ Exosomes (diagram adapted)

Intercellular communication via exosomes

Exosome

Exocytotic release

Endocytic uptake

Receiving cell

Multivesicular body

Secreting cell

Exosomes carry signals from one cell to another: the secreting cell releases them, the receiving cell absorbs them.

Source: Mibelle Biochemistry, manufacturer's documentation for PhytoCellTec™ Exosomes (diagram adapted)

Dual mechanism of action

PhytoCellTec™ Goji Exosomes act through two complementary mechanisms:

• Exosomes from outside — plant-derived exosomes present in the ingredient act directly on the epidermis, where, according to manufacturer data, they contribute to strengthening the skin barrier and protecting against external stressors such as UV radiation and pollution.
• Exosomes from within — according to manufacturer studies, the ingredient stimulates mesenchymal stem cells in the dermis to increase their own exosome production, leading to improved collagen and elastin formation in the connective tissue matrix.

This is a technologically distinct approach compared to conventional phytoextracts — rather than directly delivering plant active substances, it utilises a signalling mechanism via exosomes that acts on both skin layers simultaneously.

What the manufacturer says about clinical results

Reduction in wrinkle depth after 2 months

Placebo

0.4% Exosomes

Manufacturer's study: 0.4% PhytoCellTec™ Exosomes vs. placebo, measured after 2 months. Average wrinkle depth decreased by approximately 12%. The asterisk indicates a statistically significant difference from baseline.

Source: Mibelle Biochemistry, efficacy study for PhytoCellTec™ Exosomes (manufacturer's documentation)

Eye area wrinkles — before and after

Before

After 56 days

Photographs from the manufacturer's clinical test: 0.4% PhytoCellTec™ Exosomes, after 56 days. Fine lines around the eye area appear smoother after application.

Source: Mibelle Biochemistry, clinical test for PhytoCellTec™ Exosomes (manufacturer's photographs)

The manufacturer conducted several studies during the development of this ingredient:

• In study S-755 (23 women, aged 41–69, 56 days, dosage 0.4%), the manufacturer recorded an average reduction in wrinkle depth of 11% compared to placebo — with visible improvement of fine lines under the eyes as well as deeper lines.
• In study S-749 (67 women, aged 39–70, 28 days), the manufacturer documented a statistically significant improvement in facial oval and firming of jawline contours.
• The manufacturer further reports a 6% increase in skin density after 28 days compared to baseline, and a reduction in the density of low-reflectance zones in the lower layers of the epidermis, which is considered a marker of improved dermal structure.
• In cell study S-762, the manufacturer documented that goji stem cell extract increases exosome production by mesenchymal stem cells in vitro.

Use in formulation

Dosage ranges from 0.4–1%, with the manufacturer's clinical studies based on the lower limit of 0.4%. The ingredient is added to the water phase:

• In cold processes, the powder is dissolved directly in the water phase at room temperature.
• In hot/cold processes, it is added during the cooling phase once the formulation temperature drops below 40 °C.

Suitable products

The ingredient is intended primarily for anti-aging formulations on a water base:

• Serums and concentrates for the face and neck targeting firming and contouring
• Products supporting collagen synthesis — boosters, ampoules
• Masks with shaping and firming action
• Lifting and firming emulsions and creams
• Décolleté preparations

Thanks to its powder form (Isomalt as the granulation matrix, Lecithin as the phospholipid component) and good water solubility, the ingredient can be processed into a variety of textures — from light serums to richer emulsions — provided the temperature limit is respected.

Good to know

• It is advisable to pre-disperse the powder in a small amount of water before incorporating it into a larger batch — this minimises the risk of clumping.
• The ingredient does not contain its own preservative: standard preservation is required in every aqueous or emulsion formulation.
• Alcohol-free — suitable for alcohol-free serums and formulations with a low ethanol content.
• Store at temperatures up to 25 °C in sealed containers protected from light; shelf life 3 years.

Frequently asked questions