Growth factors in skincare refer to naturally occurring signalling proteins that play a vital role in repair, renewal and the cell growth process in our skin. When applied strategically and in the right format, growth factors can support smoother texture, enhanced resilience and improved luminosity in a controlled and responsible manner.
To understand what are growth factors, think of them as messenger molecules. These protein-based signals communicate with target cells, guiding renewal and encouraging the balanced cell division that supports healthy function. Growth factors are naturally produced within the skin and are crucial for everyday processes such as regeneration, recovery and strengthening the skin barrier.
In skincare products, growth factors are included to complement the skin’s natural processes by delivering additional support where repair or replenishment is needed.
Growth factors can influence multiple pathways linked to cell proliferation and balanced cell growth. They communicate instructions to the skin, supporting the growth of cells involved in repair and helping refine overall texture.
Various categories of growth factors are used in advanced formulations. Each type contributes to a specific aspect of cell growth or repair.
Epidermal growth factor is a well-studied signalling protein that encourages the turnover of skin cells. Its main role in renewal lies in promoting healthy cell division, which supports a smoother and more refined complexion. Epidermal growth factor is one of the most commonly referenced growth factors in modern formulations.
Fibroblast growth factors are associated with the structural aspects of the skin. These signalling proteins help maintain resilience by influencing collagen-producing cells and assisting in the growth of new tissues. Their involvement in renewal makes them relevant in advanced anti-ageing strategies.
Another group includes platelet derived growth factor, which plays a supportive role in surface recovery and contributes to the creation of new blood vessels during wound healing. While not always used widely in commercial products, it is a significant part of growth factors studied in regenerative science.
The skin is a complex organ where multiple types of the cells interact. Growth factor signalling helps guide the behaviour of these cells, ensuring the orderly progression of cell division and supporting the growth of cells that maintain firmness, clarity and hydration.
Here is how growth factors interact in the renewal process:
They bind to receptors on target cells
They trigger pathways involved in controlled cell growth
They help regulate repair in the deeper layers
They support the growth of new blood vessels that aid nourishment
They communicate with cells responsible for structural integrity
While growth factors do not offer instant transformation, they complement routine care when incorporated thoughtfully through skincare products or professional treatments.
Modern skincare products may include bio-engineered growth factors, peptides or supporting complexes designed to the suit different needs. When reading labels, it helps to understand what are genuine signalling ingredients and what may simply be marketing language.
Look for:
Growth-factor formulas work best when the skin barrier is cushioned and supported. Look for hydrators that stabilise and buffer the skin, helping prevent dryness or reactivity.
Good examples:
Hyaluronic acid
Glycerin
Beta glucan
Panthenol (Vitamin B5)
Ceramides
Cholesterol
Fatty acids
Squalane
Centella asiatica
Allantoin
Oat extract
Bisabolol
Products containing growth factors often pair them with these hydrators so the formula remains stable and gentle in the skin, especially if used daily.
Growth factors interact with receptors in a controlled manner.
This means:
They should not be paired with extremely low pH acids
They should not be mixed with strong exfoliants in the same step
They shouldn’t be layered with too many aggressive actives
The surrounding formula should keep them stable, not degrade them
In simple terms, avoid anything that destabilises proteins or overstimulates the skin at the same time.
Actives that are generally too strong to layer with growth factors:
High-strength AHAs (Glycolic 10%–20%)
High-strength BHAs (Salicylic acid 2% used multiple times daily)
Retinoids layered immediately on top
Peels (lactic, mandelic, glycolic at peel concentrations)
Vitamin C L-ascorbic acid at 15%–20%
Alcohol-heavy toners
Physical scrubs on the same day
Any product that stings or heats the skin significantly
These can destabilise proteins or over-stimulate the skin barrier.
Certain professional treatments pair growth factors with advanced delivery systems to support renewal carefully and effectively. SSKINS signature Skin Rebirth MTS – Bio-Regenerative Treatment, utilises a precision-delivered growth factor solution.
Ageing Skin | Weakened Skin Barrier | Dull or Stressed Complexion
Designed for those seeking responsible rejuvenation, this treatment uses microneedling techniques to create micro-channels in the skin. These pathways allow a refined bio-regenerative growth factor serum to the reach deeper layers where renewal takes place.
The treatment includes:
A clarifying cleanse
A gentle enzyme peel
Hydrating oxygen mist
Microneedling paired with bio-regenerative growth factors
A cooling cryocell infusion to reinforce the skin barrier
By supporting the delivery of these signalling molecules, the treatment complements the skin’s natural recovery pathways. It assists in promoting elasticity, supporting collagen-related cell growth, and enhancing the appearance of balanced, revitalised skin.
Understanding what are growth factors allows you to make informed choices about advanced renewal options. While growth factors can support healthy cell growth, balanced cell division, and the growth of new tissues, their value lies in their ability to complement proper care.
