What it is
Exosomes are tiny, membrane-wrapped particles that cells naturally release. Researchers study them because they carry molecules such as proteins and other cellular materials that cells may use to communicate with one another. Exosomes are not cells, and they do not contain living cells.
Wharton's jelly is the gel-like tissue found inside the umbilical cord. It is one of several umbilical cord derived products that companies process into injectable or topical items. Depending on how a product is made, it may contain tissue fragments, proteins or other components. Processing often removes or destroys living cells, so a product should not be assumed to contain living stem cells unless a provider can show documentation of that.
The regulatory picture matters. As of now, most exosome, Wharton's jelly, amniotic and other umbilical cord derived products marketed for joints, pain, skin, hair or anti-aging are not FDA-approved for those uses, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved regenerative products. Products labeled research-use-only (RUO) are not FDA-approved for human treatment and cannot legally be marketed for that purpose.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Umbilical cord and placental tissues have long been of interest in medical research and have been used in some established medical settings, such as certain wound or eye applications that follow specific regulatory pathways. That is different from the broad wellness and aesthetic marketing seen today.
For joint discomfort, skin concerns and hair thinning, people have traditionally explored approaches such as movement and physical therapy, medications, topical products, lifestyle changes, and procedures offered by orthopedic, dermatology and other specialists. These remain common starting points that a clinician can discuss.
Exosome and Wharton's jelly products are newer and still being studied. Research is ongoing, and results in early studies do not mean a product is proven or approved for a particular use. Many clinics offer them outside of FDA-approved indications, which is why asking careful questions is so important.
How the right doctor may help
The right doctor may help you sort through marketing language and understand your options. A visit generally starts with a conversation about your health history, your concerns and your goals, and may include an exam and a review of any prior records. A thoughtful provider may also explain which approaches have established evidence and which are still experimental.
If a provider mentions an exosome or umbilical cord derived product, it's reasonable to ask about its regulatory status. Questions you might bring: Is this product FDA-approved, and for what use? Is it research-use-only? Where does it come from and how is it processed? Does it contain living cells, and how do you know? What are the risks, and what alternatives exist? What is the total cost, including follow-up?
Only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation. A good provider should be comfortable answering these questions plainly, should not promise results or call a product a cure, and should be willing to let you take time to decide.
The whole-person view
Your body, mind and stress levels influence each other. Ongoing pain, changes in skin or hair, and worries about aging can affect mood and sleep, and stress and poor rest can in turn make physical discomfort feel stronger. Looking at the whole person, including movement, nutrition, sleep and emotional wellbeing, is often a helpful frame when exploring any option.
Some people find body-based support, such as the approaches listed through Somatic Experiences, helpful for how stress is held in the body. Others value talk therapy through Therapists.plus when health concerns bring up worry or frustration. These are complementary pieces of the picture, and you can discuss them with your doctor.
Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Most exosome and Wharton's jelly products marketed for joints, pain, skin, hair or anti-aging are not FDA-approved for those uses, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved regenerative products.
- Research-use-only (RUO) products are not approved for human treatment and cannot legally be marketed for that purpose. No product should be described as a cure or as something that regrows tissue.
- Licensed professionals should guide care for any serious or ongoing health condition. This page is educational and is not medical advice.
- For emergencies call 911. If you are in crisis, call or text the 988 Lifeline.
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Doctor types
Frequently asked questions
What are exosomes?
Exosomes are tiny, membrane-wrapped particles that cells naturally release and that carry molecules such as proteins. They are not living cells. Researchers study them to understand how cells communicate, and research is ongoing.
Is exosome therapy FDA approved?
No exosome product is currently FDA-approved for treating joints, pain, skin, hair or anti-aging, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved products. Products labeled research-use-only are not approved for human treatment. Ask any provider about a product's FDA status before considering treatment.
What is a Wharton's jelly injection?
A Wharton's jelly injection uses a product made from the gel-like tissue inside the umbilical cord. Most of these products marketed for joints or pain are not FDA-approved for those uses. Processing may also remove living cells, so ask the provider what the product actually contains.
Can exosome therapy help joints?
It isn't established that exosome products help joints, and none are FDA-approved for that use. Research is still early. A licensed clinician can explain proven options and discuss whether any experimental approach is appropriate for you.
Can exosomes be used for skin and hair?
Exosome products are marketed for skin and hair, but they are not FDA-approved for those uses. Results are not guaranteed, and claims should be questioned. A dermatologist or other licensed provider can discuss approaches with established evidence.
What are umbilical cord derived products?
Umbilical cord derived products are items made from cord tissue or fluids, including Wharton's jelly. They vary widely in how they are sourced and processed, and many do not contain living cells. Ask a provider about the source, processing, FDA status, risks, alternatives and total cost.
Educational resource. Newcyte shares general information and connects people with independent doctors. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.