Ally Dellabarca: Why Is everyone losing their head about exosomes

Skincare's biggest innovation right now isn't a new cream or serum, it's microscopic. Exosomes, once reserved for stem cell research and regenerative medicine, are now revolutionising the way we treat, heal and transform skin. But as with all breakthroughs, not everything on the shelf is what it seems.
 

According to Ally Dellabarca, founder and CEO of Radiance Revolution, Australia's fastest growing beauty and hair care online marketplace, exosomes are delivering game-changing results but consumers need to understand where they come from, how they work and what to look for on the label.
 

"Exosomes are exciting because they deliver real, visible results," Dellabarca said.
 

"But many people don't realise that some products on the market are made from animal stem cells including bovine and porcine sources. That's a serious issue, ethically and biologically."
 

Exosomes are tiny lipid-based vesicles released by cells that act like molecular messengers. They carry powerful proteins, nucleic acids and growth factors that stimulate cell repair, collagen production and deep skin regeneration. But what truly sets them apart is their unique molecular structure, which allows them to penetrate the skin barrier and be absorbed deep into the dermis, where they trigger change at the cellular level.
 

"These aren't surface-level ingredients," Dellabarca explained
 

"Exosomes have the size, shape and structure to go where other products can't making them one of the most effective delivery systems we've ever seen in skincare."
 

But not all exosomes are created equal. The source of the stem cells, whether animal, human or plant, significantly affects the safety, performance and ethics of the final product.
 

"If you're looking for skincare that is high-quality, highly effective, efficient and ethical, then plant- based exosomes are the gold standard," Dellabarca said.
 

"And that's all we stock at Radiance Revolution. We simply don't compromise."
 

One of the most exciting developments in this space is Cica Exosome Technology, which Dellabarca said is the perfect fusion of ancient botanical wisdom and next-gen science.

"Even though exosome skincare is innovative and helping people to achieve even greater skin care outcomes, the technology is already being enhanced through the addition of other plant-based ingredients such as Cica or Centella Asiatica," Dellabarca said.
 

"The Cica or Centella Asiatica, is a medicinal plant known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, long used in traditional medicine.
 

"Cica exosome products harness exosomes derived from Centella Asiatica, enabling deeper penetration of active ingredients and enhanced cellular regeneration. This combination helps calm irritation, reduce inflammation, repair the skin barrier and improve overall skin texture and elasticity.
 

"Cica exosomes offer powerful healing with a soothing touch. They work in sync with your skin, delivering results from the inside out."
 

Dellabarca said it is imperative that consumers do their research and only purchase authentic high quality exosome products derived from plant-based stem cells. She outlines tips for consumers on how to avoid beauty products made with illegal or unethical animal-derived ingredients.
 

Read ingredient lists and ask questions

"Many exosome or 'bioactive' skincare products don't clearly state the source of their stem cells or growth factors. If the label is vague or uses terms like 'derived from biological sources' without specifics, it's your right to ask. Contact the brand directly and ask whether the product contains any animal-derived ingredients or exosomes sourced from animal stem cells," Dellabarca said.
 

Choose brands that value transparency

"Support brands that are upfront about their sourcing, manufacturing process and ingredient origins. If a brand doesn't provide this information openly, it's a red flag. Look for those that proudly promote plant-based, vegan or cruelty-free formulations and back it with certifications," Dellabarca said.
 

Look for certifications and third-party testing

"While not every ethical product carries a formal certification, many do. Seek out terms like 'GMP- certified', 'cruelty-free', 'vegan' or 'ethical sourcing' on packaging and websites. Certifications from trusted organisations can give peace of mind that the product has been vetted for safety and sourcing standards," Dellabarca said.
 

Support businesses and online marketplaces that prioritise ethics

"Support stockists and online marketplaces like RadianceRevolution.com.au that have a strong ethical stance and only stock plant-derived exosome products. Only purchase exosome products from these places," Dellabarca said.
 

Educate yourself and others

"One of the biggest reasons animal-derived products continue to appear in beauty is because people simply don't know they're there. Share what you learn. The more consumers demand ethical products, the faster the industry shifts," Dellabarca said.

Experience the revolution

Explore the future of self-care today at RadianceRevolution.com.au and discover a new era of beauty and wellness innovation.