The Future of Fibroblast Secretomes with Prithwiraj Maitra, PhD

“Transparency and education for skin care ingredients are key, and that's why our vision is to provide this through cutting edge science to shape the future of evidence-based skin care that delivers those transformative outcomes that inspire individuality and confidence,” Prithwiraj Maitra, PhD, said in the second part of this interview.

Maitra, Vice President of Global Skincare Research and Development at Allergan Aesthetics, discussed the future of fibroblast-derived exosome research and the company’s broader exploration of regenerative skin science. Maitra highlights that healthy skin is the product of a complex “biological symphony,” where multiple cellular processes work harmoniously. When age, intrinsic and extrinsic factors such as UV exposure and pollution disrupt this harmony, it leads to the loss of essential proteins, peptides, and growth factors that maintain youthful skin function.

To address these changes, Allergan Aesthetics is pioneering the study of secretome science, a next-generation approach to regenerative skin care. Secretomes are complex mixtures of growth factors, proteins, and peptides secreted by cells, functioning as signaling networks that promote repair and rejuvenation. Maitra explains that SkinMedica formulations, for example, harness the power of fibroblast-derived secretomes, which are especially potent because fibroblasts are the skin’s native support cells. Moreover, the company utilizesyounger fibroblast cells to generate more active and robust secretomes, optimizing their regenerative potential.

Looking ahead, Allergan’s research aims to expand secretome science to address emerging clinical and aesthetic challenges associated with skin aging. Current investigations include understanding the impact of rapid weight loss on skin quality, as well as the structural and compositional changes that occur during peri- and post-menopause. Maitra emphasized that these initiatives share an overarching goal of advancing skin quality through biologically informed innovation.

“The exciting field is connecting the advances in secretome science and some of these emerging unmet needs with the overarching theme of skin health and longevity,” he noted.

Reflecting on the recent findings validating stable, intact exosomes in product formulations, Maitra underscored 2 key messages for dermatologists. First, the source matters: fibroblast-derived components, with over 20 years of clinical use, provide proven safety and efficacy. Second, the formulation matters: scientific validation must confirm ingredient stability and activity in the final product. He concluded by reaffirming Allergan’s vision of shaping the future of evidence-based skincare through rigorous science, transparency, and innovation.