What Exactly Are Plant Stem Cells?
Plant stem cells are undifferentiated cells that are found in the meristems of plants. They are able to divide in order to produce more stem cells, and can also become specialized cells. After injury, these stem cells help to stimulate and regenerate tissue to repair damage in a plant.
How Are They Used in Skincare?
In skincare products, an extract of the plant stem cells is used, rather than the actual cells, as the cells would be dead by the time they hit the skin and have no effect. In order for them to be effective, these extracts need to be in a formula that is water soluble and has a low pH, since the extracts are naturally acidic. On labels, plant stem cells may be called phyto cells, plant extracts, or fruit extracts.
What Are the Benefits?
The use of plant stem cells in skin care was originally studied in Switzerland, using the stem cells from Swiss apples. The extracts from the plant stem cells were found to reverse the aging process of cultured fibroblasts, which are active cells in connective tissue. An initial study found that these extracts decreased the appearance of crow’s feet, and following studies found the plant stem cells showed efficacy in wound healing and repairing the skin.
These findings show that plant stem cell extracts may be effective in fighting the signs of aging, largely due to the antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties that are found in the extracts, properties that are great for protecting against damaging free radicals and preventing fine lines and wrinkles.
Should I Use Them?
There are great benefits to using plant stem cell extracts in skin care. They can contribute toward fighting the visible signs of aging due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and are a beneficial addition to any skincare regiment, helping to achieve glowing and more youthful appearing skin.