• BOTANICAL INTELLIGENCE · KOREAN BIOTECHNOLOGY

CICA Exosome
Recovery
Technology

A Centella asiatica-derived extracellular vesicle technology—Dērmyxis’ bio-inspired platform designed to support soothing care, skin defence and recovery.

Every day, the skin is exposed to UV radiation, environmental pollution, oxidative stress, changing weather conditions and intensive skincare procedures. When the skin barrier is compromised, the skin may become dry, tight, sensitive and visibly red, with reduced elasticity.

EXPLORE THE TECHNOLOGY
01 · ORIGIN

Where Botanical Intelligence Meets Korean Biotechnology

Centella asiatica is widely used in formulations for sensitive skin. Its characteristic compounds—including asiaticoside, madecassoside and triterpenoids—have been studied for their soothing and antioxidant properties and their role in supporting skin structure.

CICA Exosome Recovery Technology takes a different approach to Centella asiatica from conventional botanical extracts. Rather than collecting only a mixture of soluble plant compounds, the technology focuses on lipid-membrane vesicles released by Centella cells or tissues—known as extracellular vesicles (EVs).

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Scientific Note on the Term “Exosome”
In cosmetic communications, these structures are often referred to as “Centella exosomes”. Under the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles’ MISEV2023 guidelines, the term “exosome” should be used with caution unless the vesicle’s biogenesis pathway has been fully established. Dērmyxis therefore uses the more scientifically precise term “Centella-derived extracellular vesicles” to describe this ingredient platform.
02 · VESICLE ANATOMY

A Plant-Derived Biological Delivery Structure

Protein Peptide Plant Metabolites Lipid Bilayer

Lipid Bilayer

Encapsulates and protects the internal components and plays a central role in vesicle stability.

Protein

Present on the vesicle surface and within its core, originating from the source Centella cells.

Peptide

Biological signalling molecules transported within the extracellular vesicle.

Plant Metabolites

Characteristic Centella asiatica compounds carried within the vesicle core.

The final characteristics of extracellular vesicles depend on multiple factors, including plant variety, plant part, culture conditions, isolation method, purification process and quality-control standards.

Plant Variety Plant Part Culture Conditions Isolation Method Purification Process Quality Control

The value of this technology lies not simply in the use of Centella asiatica, but in the ability to standardise the raw-material source, control particle size and concentration, maintain purity and preserve stability when the vesicles are incorporated into a cosmetic formula.

03 · Mechanism of Action

A Multi-Targeted Approach to Skin Care

01 — Calm

Soothing Support

Helps reduce the effects of surface stressors, ease feelings of dryness, tightness and discomfort, and support a more balanced skin condition—particularly for sensitive skin or skin requiring post-treatment care.

02 — Defend

Support Against Oxidative Stress

UV exposure and environmental aggressors promote free-radical formation, which can affect structural proteins and collagen. Preclinical research has identified the potential to reduce oxidative stress in UV-exposed fibroblasts and help limit the degradation of type I collagen.

*Preclinical data only; this does not constitute direct evidence of therapeutic effects in humans.

03 — Renew

Support the Skin’s Natural Recovery Environment

Supports a balanced biological environment and helps maintain the skin’s natural renewal processes, improving the appearance of tired-looking skin. Selected laboratory studies have reported potential support for fibroblast activity in cellular recovery models.

04 · From Raw Material to Finished Formula

From Biological Raw Material to Finished Formula

A product’s performance is not determined by the name of a single active ingredient. Centella-derived extracellular vesicles must be incorporated into a formula with an appropriate pH, viscosity, preservation system and manufacturing process, as every processing variable can affect vesicle stability.

Formula pH Viscosity Preservation System Processing Temperature Order of Ingredient Addition Shear Force Contact Time Packaging Compatibility

Dērmyxis approaches CICA Exosome as a complete technology platform, combining the biological raw material with ingredients selected to moisturise, soothe and support the skin barrier. Exploratory studies of formulations containing Centella asiatica-derived extracellular vesicles have reported potential improvements in hydration, elasticity and surface texture. Specific results, however, depend on ingredient concentration, the formulation base and test data from the finished product itself.

The value of Exosome technology does not lie in a trend-driven name. What matters is the origin of the extracellular vesicles, the standardisation method, their ability to remain stable and the measurable performance of the finished formula.

— Dērmyxis R&D
Applications

Three Principles — Calm · Defend · Renew

CICA Exosome Recovery Technology is designed for use in products developed for:

Sensitive Skin Dehydrated Skin Compromised Skin Barrier Environmentally Stressed Skin Skin Requiring Post-Treatment Care

Dērmyxis CICA Exosome Recovery Technology

Botanical Intelligence. Korean Biotechnology.

This content is for scientific and informational purposes only, compiled from preclinical data and exploratory formulation research. It does not replace professional advice from a dermatologist or healthcare specialist.