The beauty industry constantly evolves, introducing new ingredients that promise youthful and radiant skin. One such ingredient gaining global attention is placenta extract in skincare. This powerful component has been a staple in Japan and Korea for decades. Today, it is gradually gaining recognition in other parts of the world.
Although the idea may sound unusual at first, placenta extract has attracted significant scientific interest because of its unique biological composition. Rich in growth factors, amino acids, peptides, and antioxidants, it supports skin regeneration and repair.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that human placental extract activates genes associated with extracellular matrix organization in dermal fibroblasts. The researchers observed increased expression of collagen-related genes such as COL1A1, as well as elastin and hyaluronan production. These findings suggest that placental extract may support skin elasticity and regeneration by stimulating components of the skin’s structural matrix (Chang et al., 2022).
Understanding how placenta extract works and why it became so popular in Asian skincare helps explain why cosmetic scientists continue to explore its potential today.
What Is Placenta Extract in Skincare?
Placenta extract is derived from the placentas of mammals such as sheep or pigs. In rare cases, human-derived placental compounds may be used in medical research, but cosmetic products typically rely on purified animal-derived extracts.
The placenta is a temporary organ that supports fetal development during pregnancy. Because of this biological role, it contains a wide range of compounds that stimulate cell growth and tissue repair.
In skincare formulations, placenta extract provides several beneficial components, including:
- amino acids
- peptides
- enzymes
- vitamins and minerals
- growth factors
These substances help stimulate collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and support the skin’s natural repair processes.
A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study published in Nutrients reported that porcine placenta extract significantly improved skin hydration, elasticity, and overall skin condition after four weeks of use (Nagae et al., 2020).
Because of these regenerative properties, placenta extract has become increasingly popular in advanced cosmetic formulations.
How Placenta Extract Works on the Skin
Placenta extract influences skin health through several biological mechanisms. 
First, it helps stimulate collagen synthesis, which plays a key role in maintaining skin firmness and elasticity. As collagen levels decrease with age, wrinkles and sagging become more visible. Supporting collagen production may therefore help slow the appearance of aging.
Second, placenta extract promotes cellular renewal and tissue regeneration. This process supports faster skin recovery and may help reduce the appearance of scars, pigmentation, and uneven texture.
Third, the ingredient contains antioxidants that help protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by environmental factors such as pollution and UV exposure.
As a result, regular use may help:
- improve skin elasticity and firmness
- smooth uneven texture
- reduce discoloration
- increase hydration
- support recovery after cosmetic treatments
Many skincare users report noticeable improvements in hydration and smoothness after several weeks of use. Some individuals also say placenta-based products help soothe the skin after procedures such as chemical peels or laser treatments.
Placenta Extract in Japanese and Korean Skincare
Why Japan Values Placenta Extract
Japan has long combined natural ingredients with advanced cosmetic science. Placenta extract gained popularity in Japanese skincare during the late twentieth century when researchers began studying its regenerative potential.
Today, many Japanese skincare brands include placenta extract in:
- serums
- lotions
- sheet masks
- anti-aging creams
Japanese cosmetic regulations require strict purification and quality control. This ensures that placenta-derived ingredients remain safe and free from harmful contaminants.
A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study found that porcine placenta extract improved several parameters of skin quality, including hydration, elasticity, and skin barrier function (Nagae et al., 2020).
The Role of Placenta Extract in Korean Skincare
Korean skincare is known for its multi-step routines and innovative formulations. Within this approach, placenta extract is valued for its hydrating and regenerative properties.
Many Korean beauty products incorporate placenta extract into:
- ampoules
- sheet masks
- overnight creams
- recovery treatments
These formulations often focus on skin recovery and repair. For example, products designed for post-procedure care may include placenta extract to help reduce redness and support healing.
Experimental research has also demonstrated the regenerative potential of placental extracts. In an animal wound-healing model, human placental extract accelerated wound closure and increased growth factors associated with tissue repair, including TGF-β and VEGF (Hong et al., 2010).
Placenta Extract in the U.S. Skincare Market
Although placenta extract in skincare has been widely accepted in Asian beauty routines for many years, Western markets have historically approached the ingredient more cautiously.
Cultural perceptions and ethical concerns initially slowed its adoption. However, interest has grown as consumers increasingly seek scientifically supported skincare ingredients that promote long-term skin health.
Advances in biotechnology and purification techniques have also improved the safety and stability of placenta-derived ingredients. As a result, more cosmetic companies are beginning to explore their use in anti-aging serums and treatment products.
Some consumers who were initially skeptical report noticeable improvements after trying placenta-based formulations. Commonly mentioned benefits include improved hydration, smoother skin texture, and increased firmness.
Placenta Extract Compared to Other Anti-Aging Ingredients
Placenta extract is often compared with other well-known anti-aging ingredients. However, its effects differ because it combines several biological functions.
Retinol vs. Placenta Extract
Retinol stimulates skin renewal but can cause irritation and dryness for some people. Placenta extract supports regeneration while often being gentler on sensitive skin.
Hyaluronic Acid vs. Placenta Extract
Hyaluronic acid primarily provides hydration. Placenta extract also supports cellular repair and collagen production.
Vitamin C vs. Placenta Extract
Vitamin C brightens the complexion and protects against oxidative stress. Placenta extract additionally supports tissue repair and may help reduce inflammation.
Because of these complementary effects, placenta extract is sometimes used alongside other skincare actives rather than replacing them.
Ethical and Safety Considerations
Is Placenta Extract Safe?
The safety of placenta extract largely depends on sourcing and purification methods. Reputable cosmetic manufacturers use highly refined extracts that undergo sterilization and filtration.
These processes remove potential contaminants and ensure the ingredient meets cosmetic safety standards.
Discussions around ingredient safety are also common in the modern “clean beauty” movement. According to a Healthline review, some cosmetic ingredients, including placenta extract, are sometimes debated in terms of safety and formulation standards within the beauty industry.
Nevertheless, individuals with sensitive skin should perform a patch test before introducing new products into their routine.
Ethical Considerations
Some consumers express ethical concerns regarding animal-derived ingredients. Placenta extract is typically obtained as a byproduct of the livestock industry, and many companies emphasize responsible sourcing and transparency.
Researchers are also exploring biotechnology methods that may replicate certain placental growth factors without relying on animal-derived materials.
Who Can Benefit from Placenta Extract?
Placenta extract may be beneficial for several skin types and concerns.
Aging skin
It may help improve elasticity, reduce fine lines, and support hydration.
Dry or dehydrated skin
The ingredient helps strengthen the skin barrier and improve moisture retention.
Sensitive skin
Placenta extract may help calm redness and irritation.
Post-treatment skin
It may accelerate healing after procedures such as chemical peels, microneedling, or laser treatments.
How to Use Placenta Extract in Your Routine
Placenta extract is available in various skincare products, including:
- serums and ampoules
- moisturizers and creams
- sheet masks
- eye creams
To incorporate it effectively into a routine:
- Cleanse – Begin with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities.
- Apply serum – Use a placenta-based serum to deliver concentrated ingredients.
- Moisturize – Follow with a cream to lock in hydration.
- Use sunscreen – Daily SPF protects the skin from sun damage and preserves results.
Consistent use is important, as most skincare ingredients require several weeks to show visible improvements.
Best Skincare Products with Placenta Extract 
One example of a modern placenta-based skincare product is the MZ Skin Rest & Revive Placenta & Stem Cell Night Serum. This formula combines bio-placental proteins, peptides, and hyaluronic acid to support collagen production and deeply hydrate the skin overnight. Such advanced formulations demonstrate how placenta-inspired ingredients are being integrated into contemporary anti-aging skincare.
Is Placenta Extract Worth the Hype?
Placenta extract has been an important ingredient in Japanese and Korean skincare for many years. Its combination of regenerative compounds makes it valuable for improving hydration, elasticity, and overall skin health.
As scientific interest continues to grow, placenta extract in skincare is becoming an increasingly discussed topic in cosmetic research and beauty innovation.
Although the ingredient may initially sound unusual, its growing popularity highlights how modern skincare continues to explore biologically active compounds that support healthier and more resilient skin.
For those interested in innovative anti-aging ingredients, placenta-based formulations may offer a promising addition to a well-balanced skincare routine.
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I’m Victoria, the creator behind Eva My Balance. Passionate about beauty, wellness, sustainable living, and mindful self-care. My mission is to inspire you to live consciously and beautifully—inside and out.
