Placenta-Based Skincare Is on the Rise—Here’s What You Need to Know

For years, the use of placenta in health and beauty products has sparked a wide range of reactions—some people are intrigued, others skeptical, and some fully embracing the trend. As a vital organ that transfers nutrients and oxygen from mother to fetus in mammals, the placenta has long been regarded as a potent source of nourishment. In certain cultures, placenta consumption is even considered routine. In skincare, placenta-based creams are known for their nourishing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, promoting the skin’s natural ability to heal. Recently, both human and animal placenta extracts have found their way into cosmetic products like Biologique Recherche's Crème Placenta—with mixed but notable interest. Curious if placenta cream might work for you?

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What Does Placenta Claim to Do for Your Skin?

Placenta creams are formulated using placental extracts, derived by breaking down placental tissue—not to be confused with stem cells. While they don’t contain live cells, these extracts are packed with proteins, amino acids, minerals, steroid hormones, and other compounds thought to improve skin conditions related to inflammation.

Research suggests that placental extracts offer anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and even hormone-like benefits. They may also promote cell regeneration and skin healing, according to various scientific sources. When blended into creams, these ingredients claim to hydrate, firm, calm redness, even out skin tone, and help rejuvenate the complexion overall.

How Are Placenta Creams Made and Sourced?

Understandably, the idea of placenta in skincare might raise eyebrows. So where does it come from? According to experts, placenta used in cosmetics is typically sourced from animals—commonly sheep—after a successful birth. The tissue, which would otherwise be discarded, is carefully collected, purified, and processed into a safe, skin-compatible extract.

Is There Scientific Proof That It Works?

Scientific validation of placenta skincare is limited. While anecdotal evidence and some clinical imagery point to potential benefits—particularly in wound healing and burn care—there’s a lack of rigorous, peer-reviewed studies supporting its use in cosmetic products.

That said, quality matters. Experts note that any benefits seen with placenta creams are usually linked to well-formulated products. Properly made creams may improve skin texture and hydration, while poorly manufactured ones might do more harm than good.

Are There Risks to Using Placenta in Skincare?

The main concern lies in the unknowns. Since research is still emerging, potential hormonal effects or allergic reactions remain a gray area. Some dermatologists caution users to be vigilant, especially when ingredient lists are vague or products come from questionable sources. In short, if you’re uneasy, your hesitation is valid—there are more thoroughly studied and regulated options available.

What Can You Use Instead?

If placenta-based products aren't your thing, you're not missing out. There are plenty of dermatologist-approved alternatives that deliver similar benefits without the controversy. Look for products rich in peptides, ceramides, vitamins, and minerals—such as SkinMedica’s TNS Ceramide Treatment Cream ($69)—which mimic the nourishing effects of placenta creams.

Other proven ingredients like retinoids, niacinamide, and antioxidants can also support anti-aging, hydration, and skin repair—minus the guesswork.

Unless you enjoy taking beauty risks, there’s no need to go placenta-first. But if it works for you? You do you.

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II DISCLAIMER: Every skin is different, not everything works for everybody. I recommend you test the product before completely using any new product. II