Growth Factor Skincare

Growth factors are proteins your skin naturally produces to signal cells to repair, renew, and make collagen and elastin. As we age, growth factor levels decline, which contributes to fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. Topical growth factor serums replenish these signals to visibly smooth wrinkles, improve firmness and texture, and support a more youthful-looking complexion. SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum is one of the best-known options, and our guide to growth factors with SkinMedica explains the science behind it.

Topical growth factor skincare is generally well tolerated and suits most skin types, including sensitive and mature skin. Growth factors in skincare come from different sources, including human cell cultures, plant stem cells, and bioengineered proteins, so check each product's description if the source matters to you. There's no evidence that topical growth factor products cause cancer, but long-term research is limited. If you have a personal history of skin cancer, or you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before using them.

Growth factors pair well with retinol and vitamin C, and together they make one of the most effective anti-aging routines. Apply your growth factor serum to clean skin, then layer vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night. Finish with moisturizer, plus sunscreen during the day. If you're new to combining actives, see our list of ingredients you can and can't use with retinol.

Growth factors are individual proteins that signal skin cells to repair and renew. Exosomes are tiny vesicles that carry growth factors along with other proteins, lipids, and signaling molecules. Growth factors have years of use in professional skincare behind them, while exosomes are a newer option that delivers a broader package of messages to the skin. Learn more in our guide to exosomes vs. growth factors.