We are hearing all about stem cells from both the medical field and the beauty industry. But what exactly are stem cells and what will they mean in our beauty products?

According to The Royal Society:

Stem cells are the master cells of the human body. They can divide to produce copies of themselves and many other types of cell. They are found in various parts of the human body at every stage of development from embryo to adult. Stem cells taken from embryos that are just a few days old, can turn into any of the 300 different types of cell that make up the adult body.

Stem cells were initially developed to treat wounds and burns. Stem cell research is now being used in the beauty industry (from companies like Christian Dior) to possibly grow or preserve our skin. The cosmetic companies have been researching the adult stem cells, which act like reserves so when the body needs to make repairs the stem cells are called in to get the job done.

In skincare stem cells have been used in two ways. The first type claim to stimulate dormant stem cells in adults to reproduce resulting in new, undamaged skin. The second type are used to protect the stem cells in the skin to ensure they are at their healthiest when they reach the surface of the skin which in turn may slow down the aging process.

Both types work on the upper layers of the skin.

New ingredients in skin care such telomerase may convert dormant cells into new skin cells. Dior’s Capture XP R60/80 uses “Stremsome” to smooth wrinkles, protect the stem cells and strengthen the skin.

Many other companies such as Voss and Sisley are using stem cells in their products. There is some controversy in the medical field, but women everywhere are running to the cosmetic counter to get their hands on this new range of products.

This could very possibly be one of the best anti-aging solutions yet.