Intense Serum
Intense Serum
Product Description
Product overview
By Plated Skin Science — A clinical-grade anti-aging serum powered by Renewosome™ technology, delivering 1+ trillion platelet-derived exosomes per bottle to visibly reduce fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and redness in as little as 6 weeks. Lightweight, fragrance-free, and gentle enough for all skin types including sensitive.
1+ Trillion Exosomes
Platelet-derived nanovesicles deliver growth factors, peptides, and signaling molecules directly to skin cells.
Texture & feel
SENSORY1+ Trillion Exosomes
Platelet-derived nanovesicles deliver growth factors, peptides, and signaling molecules directly to skin cells.
Visible Results in 6 Weeks
Clinical studies show reduction in wrinkles, redness, and brown spots after just six weeks of daily use.
Renewosome™ Technology
Patented delivery system stimulates cellular communication, collagen production, and skin barrier renewal.
Minimalist Clean Formula
Just 12 ingredients — no fragrance, alcohol, parabens, or known irritants. Suitable for sensitive skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo fatty acids, esters, or fermented ingredients that could feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for those prone to fungal acne breakouts.
Comedogenic rating 0/5. Will not clog pores or trigger hormonal/closed-comedone breakouts.
Apply first on clean dry skin. Compatible with retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide, AHAs and BHAs after absorption.
Brand states there is not enough clinical data to confirm safety. Consult your physician before use during pregnancy or nursing.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, alcohol-free. Free of known irritants — generally well tolerated by reactive skin.
Not photosensitizing. Safe for daytime use, but daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential to maintain anti-aging results.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHuman Platelet Extract (Exosomes) 1+ Trillion/bottleProven
The hero ingredient — nanosized vesicles that deliver growth factors, peptides, RNA, and signaling molecules to skin cells, unlocking the skin's innate ability to renew and visibly rewinding the look of aging.
- Source: Aesthetic Surgery Journal (2022) — A peer-reviewed clinical study found that topically applied human platelet extract (HPE) led to normalization of skin health and improved measures of facial photodamage and cutaneous aging at 4–6 weeks. The study reported it as safe, well-tolerated, and well-liked by participants.
- Mechanism: Exosomes under 500 kDa penetrate via epidermal cells and hair follicles, activating natural regeneration pathways.
- Sourcing: Ethically sourced from select FDA-licensed US blood banks, with proprietary purification.
Hyaluronic Acid (Low Molecular Weight) Carrier GelProven
The carrier gel matrix that supports the renewing potential of exosomes while increasing skin hydration. Low-MW HA penetrates deeper layers than standard HA, plumping fine lines from within.
- Function: Holds up to 1,000x its weight in water and reduces transepidermal water loss.
- Synergy: Enhances exosome delivery and bioavailability.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~2-3%Proven
A humectant and skin-protectant that calms irritation, reinforces the skin barrier, and promotes wound healing. Reduces redness associated with active treatments and environmental stress.
- Source: Studies show panthenol stimulates fibroblast proliferation, supporting collagen production.
- Bonus: Reduces irritation caused by other actives like retinol or vitamin C.
Glycerin HighProven
A skin-identical humectant that draws water into the stratum corneum and maintains the lipid matrix between skin cells in a healthy liquid-crystal state — protecting against irritation and supporting barrier repair.
- Source: Effective from 3% with maximum benefits at higher concentrations for dry skin.
- Comedogenicity: 0 — completely non-pore-clogging.
Arginine + Hydrolyzed Gelatin (Amino Acids) SupportingPromising
Building blocks of skin proteins (collagen, elastin, keratin) that hydrate, repair, and protect the skin barrier. They support exosome activity by providing the raw materials skin needs for renewal.
- Function: Help skin synthesize new collagen and elastin fibers.
- Bonus: Arginine has natural antioxidant and pH-balancing properties.
Silanetriol TracePromising
An organic silicon compound that supports collagen and elastin synthesis, strengthens connective tissue, and helps reduce free-radical damage that drives visible aging.
- Function: Acts as a structural co-factor for collagen production and antioxidant defense.
12 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Panthenol, Human Platelet Extract, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Hyaluronic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydrolyzed Gelatin, Arginine, Silanetriol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply Intense Serum FIRST on clean, dry skin — before any other actives or moisturizers. The exosomes work most effectively with direct skin contact. Wait 5 minutes for full absorption before layering other products.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with clean, completely dry skin. Pat dry — do not apply on damp skin as it dilutes exosome delivery.
Dispense 1-2 Pumps
Press 1 pump into your palm for face, plus an additional pump for neck and chest if desired.
Press & Pat — Don't Rub
Gently press and pat the serum into skin. Avoid the immediate eye area. Smooth downward on neck.
Wait 5 Minutes
Allow serum to fully absorb and dry before layering moisturizer, retinol, vitamin C, or SPF.
Use 1-2x Daily for 6-12 Weeks
Use morning and night for 6-12 weeks intensive treatment, then transition to Plated Daily Serum for maintenance.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have visible fine lines, wrinkles, or loss of firmness (typically 35+)
- You want to address dark spots, hyperpigmentation, or uneven tone
- You've plateaued with conventional serums and need cellular-level results
- You're recovering from microneedling, laser, or other in-office procedures
- Your skin is sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone and rejects retinol
- You want a minimalist, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
- You're under 25 with no visible aging concerns (overkill for your needs)
- You have ethical/religious concerns about human-derived ingredients
- Your primary concern is active acne (won't treat existing breakouts)
- The $258 price point doesn't fit your budget for a 4-6 week supply
- You prefer simple, single-active formulas over biotech blends
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, fast-absorbing, oil-free. Won't add shine or feel greasy. Non-comedogenic formula.
Hyaluronic acid + glycerin provide hydration, but you'll need a richer moisturizer on top to seal in moisture.
Balances perfectly across face zones — hydrates dry areas without overloading the T-zone.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, hypoallergenic. Many users report reduced redness and calmer skin within weeks.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, no pore-clogging ingredients. Helps fade post-acne marks.
The flagship use case. Designed specifically to target wrinkles, laxity, and photodamage at the cellular level.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12Hydration & Glow
Skin feels noticeably smoother, plumper, and more hydrated. Initial dewy luminosity becomes visible after a few applications.
75% noticedReduced Redness & Even Tone
Inflammation calms, redness fades, and skin texture begins to refine. Makeup applies more smoothly.
68% noticedVisible Anti-Aging Results
Clinical milestone — fine lines look softened, brown spots appear lighter, firmness improves. The 6-week transformation point.
82% noticedDeep Cellular Renewal
Sustained collagen and elastin support produces visibly firmer, denser-looking skin. Hyperpigmentation continues fading. Time to transition to Plated Daily Serum.
90% noticedRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visible anti-aging results in 6 weeks (peer-reviewed clinical proof)
- Only 12 clean ingredients — fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing, layers under any product
- Works for sensitive, rosacea-prone, and reactive skin
- Reduces redness while delivering anti-aging benefits
- Can replace vitamin C and retinol in some routines
- Excellent for post-procedure healing (microneedling, laser)
- Eco-friendly refill cartridges available
Criticized
- Premium price tag at $258 for 15ml (4-6 weeks of use)
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding safety not established
- Human-derived ingredient may not align with all preferences
- Pump mechanism is finicky if refill gasket gets misaligned
- Limited availability — sold mainly through medical providers
- Some users see minimal change (results vary by skin biology)
- Not vegan
- Designed as short-term treatment, not long-term solo use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Targets similar anti-aging concerns through copper peptides and growth-factor signaling, but lacks exosome technology. Significantly more affordable but slower visible results. Best for those building a routine on a budget.
The closest comparable product — uses growth factors from human fibroblast cells (TNS) rather than platelet exosomes. Similar price tier and clinical backing. Thicker texture and slightly richer finish.
A 12-peptide complex targeting multiple aging pathways. Shares the multi-mechanism approach but uses synthetic peptides rather than biological exosomes. Excellent middle-ground option.
Features bio-fermented ingredients and growth factors for a similar cellular-renewal approach. Cream format vs serum — better for very dry skin types. No human-derived components.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. A single bottle typically lasts 4-6 weeks with twice-daily use (~64 pumps).
Store between 10°C and 35°C (50°F-95°F). Keep away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, or freezing temperatures.
Airless pump bottle with refillable cartridge system. Eco-friendly refills protect the formula's stability.
Yes — at 15ml the bottle fits TSA carry-on liquid limits (under 100ml). Compact size ideal for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe brand officially states there is not enough clinical data to confirm safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and recommends consulting your physician before use. While the formula is free of known pregnancy red flags (no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone), the human platelet extract has not been studied in this population. We recommend pausing use during pregnancy and nursing or speaking with your OB-GYN or dermatologist first.
Yes. The 12-ingredient formula contains no fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. The base is water, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, and pentylene glycol — all confirmed fungal-acne safe. This makes it an excellent option for those struggling with fungal acne or seborrheic dermatitis-prone skin.
Yes — and it actually pairs exceptionally well with these actives. Apply Intense Serum FIRST on clean, dry skin before any other products. Wait 5 minutes for full absorption, then layer your retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA on top. Top dermatologists report that exosomes may actually enhance the efficacy of vitamin C and retinol while reducing their typical irritation. Many users find Intense Serum allows them to tolerate higher retinol strengths without flaking.
Intense Serum is suitable for ALL skin types — oily, dry, combination, sensitive, rosacea-prone, and acne-prone. It is specifically designed for mature or photoaged skin (typically 35+) showing visible signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and loss of firmness. The lightweight, fragrance-free formula makes it especially beneficial for sensitive or reactive skin that can't tolerate traditional anti-aging actives like retinoids.
According to the brand's clinical study published in Aesthetic Surgery Journal (2022), most participants saw measurable improvement in skin photodamage and aging markers within 4-6 weeks of daily use. Initial hydration and glow appear within the first 1-2 weeks, redness reduction at 3-4 weeks, and visible wrinkle and dark spot reduction at the 6-week mark. Continued use through 8-12 weeks produces deeper cellular renewal results.
Apply Intense Serum as the very first step after cleansing and toning — BEFORE any other serums, treatments, or moisturizers. The exosomes need direct contact with clean, dry skin for maximum effectiveness. The order is: 1) Cleanser, 2) Toner (optional), 3) Plated Intense Serum, 4) Wait 5 minutes, 5) Other serums (vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide), 6) Moisturizer, 7) Sunscreen (AM only).
No. Intense Serum has a comedogenic rating of 0/5 — none of its 12 ingredients are pore-clogging. The formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and free of common comedogenic ingredients like coconut oil, isopropyl myristate, or shea butter. It's officially non-comedogenic and excellent for acne-prone skin types. Many users actually report fewer breakouts and faster fading of post-acne marks during use.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months — meaning the formula remains stable and effective for one year after first opening. However, a single 15ml bottle typically lasts only 4-6 weeks with twice-daily use (about 64 pumps total), so most users finish well before the PAO expires. Store between 10°C-35°C and avoid extreme temperatures. The airless pump packaging protects the exosomes from oxidation and contamination.
Verdict: Plated Intense Serum is a genuine biotech breakthrough — the only US-clinically-proven exosome serum on the market with peer-reviewed published evidence. Its minimalist 12-ingredient, fragrance-free formula delivers visible anti-aging results in just 6 weeks, while remaining gentle enough for the most sensitive skin. The premium $258 price and small 15ml size are real drawbacks, and its pregnancy safety remains unverified — but for those targeting fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, redness, or post-procedure recovery, this is one of the most innovative serums available today. Best paired with a 6-12 week intensive protocol followed by transition to Plated Daily Serum for maintenance.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Panthenol
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Human Platelet Extract
Skin Conditioning
|
|