The tremendous ability of the skin epidermis to regenerate is due to the presence of epidermal stem cells that continuously produce keratinocytes which undergo terminal differentiation to a keratinized layer that provides the skin’s barrier properties. The ability to control this process in vitro has made it possible to develop various types of tissue engineered skin grafts, some of which being among the first tissue engineered products to ever reach the marketplace. In the past 30 years these products have been applied with some success to the treatment of chronic skin wounds, such as diabetic and venous ulcers, as well as deep acute wounds, such as burns. Current technologies remain partially effective in their ability to restore other skin structures, for example the dermis, which is critical to the overall long-term appearance and function of the skin.

Aging is a complex process in which cells become progressively damaged over time and eventually die. New stem cells and adjunctive treatments potentially slow down or reverse the process of cell death. Those cells possess a unique anti-aging effect by means of regenerating and repairing organs damaged by stress and various toxins. Our compounding pharmacy prepares stem therapy for topical use.