Japanese Skincare Innovation: Growth Factors from Dental Pulp Stem Cells
- Glow by Tomoko
- Jul 29
- 6 min read
Everything You Need to Know About the Regenerative Power Hidden at the Core of Our Teeth 🦷: Dental Pulp Stem Cell Conditioned Media
There are many regenerative cosmeceuticals on the market today that use "stem cell-derived" ingredients, but are they all equally effective?
The simple answer is: absolutely not.
Not all stem cell-derived ingredients are created equal, and their effectiveness can vary significantly depending on the source of the stem cells and the conditions in which they are cultured.
Today, I want to focus on one of the most promising and scientifically backed options: Dental Pulp Stem Cell Conditioned Media.
What is Dental Pulp Stem Cell Conditioned Media?
Dental pulp stem cells are located inside the dental pulp, the soft tissue at the center of each tooth. These stem cells were first discovered in early 2000s by Dr. Songtao Shi and colleagues, who successfully isolated the stem cells from extracted teeth.
Teeth are constantly exposed to various stresses such as chewing, temperature changes, and bacteria. The dental pulp stem cells play a crucial role in maintaining healthy teeth and repairing damage. As a result, these stem cells are naturally programmed to respond effectively to injury by producing a diverse array of molecules that support tissue repair, blood vessel growth, and reduce inflammation.
Dental pulp stem cell conditioned media refers to a potent liquid containing these regenerative molecules, such as growth factors, but without the actual stem cells.
In a laboratory setting, the top layer of the culture media (liquid), where these molecules accumulate, is collected and used for medical or skincare applications.
Among these regenerative molecules, growth factors are the heroes formulated in skincare products. Growth factors are naturally occurring proteins abundant in our bodies, acting like a command center, directly delivering instructions to cells 🔊 (such as "Heal this tissue" or " Produce more collagen!")
This unique ability gives them the power to prevent or even reverse various signs of aging 💪
Recognizing their potential, modern medical researchers began applying this technology to treat a wide range of conditions.
Thanks to these findings, growth factor applications have expanded beyond medical treatments into aesthetic skincare, offering a safe, effective way to support healthy, radiant skin.
Numerous clinical studies have scientifically proven that growth factors can:
Improve aging skin
Reduce wrinkles
Increase collagen production
Accelerating wound and burn healing
Fade bruises
Accelerate recovery after procedures (e.g., chemical peels, microneedling)
Whether activating healthy cells or repairing damaged skin, stem cell conditioned media, containing growth factors, have become an essential ingredient in regenerative skincare today.
Why Dental Pulp Stem Cell Conditioned Media is Superior for Skin Regeneration
You might have noticed many international brands use human stem cell–derived ingredients sourced from fat tissue or bone marrow. Some products even use plant-based alternatives, which fall under a completely different category and do not offer the same physiological benefits. (but still beneficial in different ways, and I'd love to talk more about this in my next post)
As we'll explore further, the origin of the stem cells matters a lot, especially when it comes to the variety and effectiveness of growth factors.
Compared to other sources, dental pulp stem cells are known to produce a wider diversity of bioactive molecules like growth factors, which help with tissue repair and anti-inflammation.
EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor): Strengthens skin's barrier
VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor): Improves blood vessels and nutrient delivery to skin.
FGF (Fibroblast Growth Factor): Stimulates fibroblast cells, which are collagen factory cells, improving skin firmness.
These and various other growth factors collectively boost skin regeneration, repair damage, and maintain skin firmness more effectively.
Here's an overall comparison as a general guideline for each type of stem cell conditioned media. That said, please note that the final amount and quality of secreted factors can vary depending on how each facility cultivates the stem cells. This is why it's super important to choose brands that prioritize their ingredient efficacy and quality.
Dental Pulp Stem Cells | Adipose-Derived Stem Cells | Bone Marrow Stem Cells | |
Origin | The soft tissue in the center of a tooth | Fat tissue | Bone marrow |
Growth Factor Diversity | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Extremely diverse | ⭐⭐ Moderate | ⭐⭐ Moderate |
EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor) | ✅ High | ✅ Moderate | ✅ Moderate |
Angiogenic Factors (VEGF, FGF) | ✅ High | ✅ Moderate | ✅ Moderate |
Collagen Stimulation | ✅ Strong | ✅ Moderate | ✅ Moderate |
Neurotrophic Factors | ✅✅✅ Very high | ❌ Minimal | ❌ Minimal |
Anti-Inflammatory | ✅ Strong | ✅ Moderate | ✅ Moderate |
Wound Healing Potential | ✅✅✅ Excellent | ✅ Moderate | ✅ Moderate |
Antioxidant Activity | ✅ High | ✅ Moderate | ✅ Lower |
Skin Benefits | 🌟 Anti-aging, barrier repair, wrinkle reduction | Hydration, skin plumping | General repair, slower response |
By now, you know that not all stem cell-derived skincare products are created equal. Their effectiveness largely depends on how the culture media is formulated.
That's why I've curated a selection of products that prioritize ingredient integrity, science backing and real results!
Top Japanese Skincare Products Featuring Dental Pulp Stem Cell Conditioned Media
Lekarka - Sym Serum ¥15,400
Sym Serum is a multifunctional brightening and regenerating formula powered by dental pulp stem cell conditioned media and a potent blend of active ingredients. These actives are encapsulated in liposomal capsules, ensuring optimal absorption and efficacy.
The formula also features Phenylethyl Resorcinol, a plant-based compound with a molecular structure similar to hydroquinone, a well-known skin-brightening agent. It provides a gentler alternative without the harsh side effects often associated with long-term hydroquinone use, effectively addressing dark spots and uneven skin tone.
According to Ayana Umeda, the founder of Lekarka,
"No matter how much dental pulp stem cell conditioned media is added to a product, if the growth factors have lost their biological activity, it becomes completely meaningless. In fact, the stem cell culturing process must begin within six hours of harvesting—otherwise, the activity of the growth factors quickly declines."
"For example, with fat collected through liposuction at a clinic, the delay in shipping to an external lab means the window for preserving biological activity has already closed.
So, how does Lekarka ensure the full biological potency of its human dental pulp stem cell culture? First, all donors undergo a thorough medical examination. Only teeth that have passed rigorous safety screenings are extracted at a partnered university hospital. From there, culturing begins immediately at a lab located within the same facility—minimizing time loss and preserving maximum efficacy."
What I love about Lekarka is that they use a 100% pure, fresh, undiluted solution, packed with bioactive growth factors, so the results speak for themselves! ✨
DRBB - Essence ¥18,480
DRBB Essence is a luxurious hydrating serum that delivers intense hydration and protection to your skin. It features dental pulp stem cell conditioned media, in addition to umbilical cord stem cell exosomes.
It contains 5 different molecular sizes of Hyaluronic Acid which can penetrate different layers of the epidermis, providing deep hydration from within, making this serum perfect for dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin.
DRBB - Exosome Messenger Serum ¥15,180
Exosome Messenger Serum features exosomes and growth factors derived from dental pulp stem cells, umbilical cord and adipose-tissue stem cells. This triple dose of regenerative components works synergistically to optimize your skin's natural renewal process. In addition, the serum also contains Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD), PDRN and Bakuchiol, among others. These powerful additions supercharge your skin's natural rejuvenation process.
There’s also growing scientific support in the field of regenerative skincare. For instance, a 2014 study by Saiseiken Lab showed that patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis experienced a visible reduction in redness and itchiness after applying a gel containing dental pulp stem cell conditioned media.
Personally, I’ve struggled with eczema flare-ups in the past and often had to rely on steroid medications. That’s why this discovery feels especially meaningful to me as it offers a gentler, science-backed alternative. Since incorporating stem cell–based skincare into my routine, I haven’t experienced any flare-ups in recent years.
Key Takeaways on Dental Pulp Stem Cell Skincare in Japan
As you might have noticed, Japanese skincare brands are often less globally marketed, which makes many of their innovations remain under the radar outside of Japan. But here in Japan, dental pulp stem cell conditioned media has gained much popularity among skin care enthusiasts.
Compared to other types of stem-cell derived ingredients, dental pulp stem cells are known to secrete a wider variety of growth factors, particularly those with strong healing properties.
Thanks to this high regenerative potential and diverse growth factor profile, dental pulp stem cell culture media delivers powerful repair and regeneration, making it an excellent choice for all skin types, especially for addressing aging skin concerns or supporting sensitive skin and irritation.
✨I hope this post helped you better understand the different types of stem cell–derived ingredients and why dental pulp stem cell conditioned media can be a game-changer for achieving healthy, glowing skin.
As always, feel free to drop me an email or DM if you have any questions.
I’m always happy to connect with fellow skincare enthusiasts and share my recommendations or advice!
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