Stem cell serum, explained.

Most products marketed as a stem cell serum contain no stem cells at all. What they contain is culture supernatant — the liquid left after stem cells have been cultured. The cells themselves are removed; what remains are the signalling molecules those cells secreted.

Culture supernatants contain growth factors, cytokines, exosomes (extracellular vesicles), and a range of peptides. These are the molecules cells use to communicate with one another; in skincare they are formulated to support the environment of the skin barrier.

First, cell origin (donor and tissue). Second, culture conditions (medium, passage number, oxygen level). Third, purification and filtration. Fourth, stability in the finished formulation. Two supernatants with identical ingredient labels are not equivalent unless all four are controlled.

Look for the actual concentration of supernatant, disclosure of its origin, lot-level testing, and information on preservation and filling. A product that discloses none of these cannot be meaningfully compared with one that does.

The BIOT group runs research, materials, manufacturing, brands, and distribution inside one structure. From the design of the supernatant through to the finished formulation and the sales channel, a single quality standard applies — a structural difference from a beauty brand that outsources each step.

Frequently asked questions

Does a stem cell serum contain stem cells?

In almost all cases, no. What these products contain is culture supernatant — the liquid left after stem cells have been cultured. The cells are removed and only the signalling molecules they secreted remain.

What is in a culture supernatant?

Growth factors, cytokines, exosomes (extracellular vesicles), and a range of peptides — the molecules cells use to communicate with one another.

What determines the quality of a culture supernatant?

Four variables: cell origin (donor and tissue), culture conditions (medium, passage number, oxygen level), purification and filtration, and stability in the finished formulation. Without control of all four, identical ingredient labels do not mean identical products.

What should a consumer check before buying?

The actual concentration of supernatant, disclosure of its origin, lot-level testing, and information on preservation and filling. A product disclosing none of these cannot be meaningfully compared.

How is BIOT's approach different?

BIOT runs research, materials, manufacturing, brands, and distribution inside one group, applying a single quality standard from the design of the supernatant through to the finished formulation and the sales channel.