Exosomes are tiny particles that cells release naturally to communicate with each other, carrying proteins, lipids, and genetic material between them. In skincare, exosomes derived from plant or lab grown sources are formulated into serums and masks, most often positioned to help support skin that looks tired, uneven, or stressed. Rael uses Cica Exosome in the Blemish Recovery Mask, the second step of a two step system designed for the window after an active breakout, when skin may still look uneven, textured or stressed
What Exactly Is an Exosome?
Exosomes are extracellular vesicles, meaning they're released by, and exist outside of, nearly every cell in the body. They're far smaller than a single skin cell and act as tiny messengers, carrying proteins, lipids, and genetic material from one cell to another as part of normal cell to cell communication.
That biology comes from research on human, animal, and plant cells. The exosomes used in most cosmetic products, including Rael's, are sourced from plants rather than from human or animal cells. Cica Exosome, the version used in the Blemish Recovery Mask, is derived from Centella Asiatica, the same calming botanical known in Korean skincare as Cica.
Skincare Exosomes vs. In Office Exosome Treatments
Exosomes show up in two different settings, and it's worth knowing the difference before you shop the category. Dermatology clinics and medspas sometimes offer in-office exosome treatments using concentrated formulas applied by a professional.
Topical, over the counter skincare is a separate category from in office treatments, with a different concentration and a different purpose. Exosome containing skincare is generally positioned around how skin looks and feels rather than as a medical treatment. Rael's Cica Exosome ingredient falls into this cosmetic category, a supporting ingredient in an at home mask, not a stand in for a professional procedure.
How Rael Uses Cica Exosome: The Blemish Recovery Mask
Once a blemish has surfaced, been cared for, and started to fade, the skin around it often still looks uneven, textured, or reactive for a while afterward. Rael's Blemish Recovery Mask is designed for exactly that window, the space between an active breakout and skin looking fully settled again.
It's a two step system. Step 1 is a Microcrystal serum formulated with Azelaic Acid-coated microcrystals that gently activate the skin's surface to support natural renewal and help clear surface buildup. Step 2 is a gauze to gel sheet mask infused with Cica Exosome, Ectoin, Allantoin, and Centella, applied immediately after the serum to help support a calmer, more even looking complexion during that recovery window.
In a two week clinical study of 43 participants ages 20 to 59, the 2 step system showed a 22% reduction in the appearance of redness, a 32% reduction in the appearance of pores, and a 36% improvement in hydration after one use.*
Rael recommends using the mask one to two times a week rather than daily, since post blemish skin generally needs less frequent, more targeted support than an everyday hydration step. For more on building a full masking routine, see how often you should use a face mask.
Microcrystal technology is also used in Rael's patches for individual spots and PM serums for nighttime use, carrying the technology through different stages of a breakout rather than limiting it to a single product format.
Where Exosomes Fit in a Skincare Routine
If a blemish is still active, the right approach depends on its stage. Rael's Miracle Patch lineup covers that stage with different patches for early stage, surfaced, and larger breakouts, and our guide to the stages of a pimple breaks down which stage calls for which patch.
The Blemish Recovery Mask picks up once that patch stage has passed and skin is moving into recovery. Used together, patch first, then mask once the active blemish has subsided, the two products follow skin through the different stages of a single breakout instead of treating it as one moment. See different types of face masks for how masks fit alongside patches, cleansers, and serums more broadly.
FAQs
What do exosomes actually do for skin?
Exosomes are used in skincare to support a variety of cosmetic benefits depending on their source and formulation. Rael's Cica Exosome is used to soothe, hydrate, and help reduce the appearance of redness while supporting surface-level recovery.
Are exosomes safe to use on skin?
Rael's Blemish Recovery Mask is dermatologist-tested and safe for sensitive skin. As with any new skincare product, follow the product directions and discontinue use if irritation occurs.
How often should you use an exosome mask?
Rael recommends using the Blemish Recovery Mask one to two times a week. Using it more often isn't necessary, since post blemish skin usually needs targeted, occasional support rather than a daily step.
What's the difference between exosomes and PDRN?
Both are popular ingredients in Korean skincare right now, but they come from different sources and show up in different Rael products. PDRN is derived from salmon and is used in select Rael skincare products, while Cica Exosome is plant derived and used specifically in the Blemish Recovery Mask. See what PDRN is and how it works for more on that ingredient.
Can you use an exosome mask with a pimple patch?
Yes, though generally not on the exact same spot at the same time. A patch can be used for an active blemish depending on its stage, while the Blemish Recovery Mask is designed for the surrounding skin, or for the period after a patch has done its job. See the Miracle Patch lineup to find the right patch by stage.
*Based on 43 participants, ages 20-59, in a 2 week clinical study.
