A novel anti-aging treatment derived from human cadaver skin is emerging as a sought-after cosmetic procedure, offering a new approach to skin rejuvenation. The injectable, known as Elravie Re2O, is currently available in South Korea, Singapore, and Japan, with its developer aiming for U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in 2027.
Elravie Re2O is created from skin donated by deceased individuals. This tissue undergoes an extensive processing phase where all cellular material is removed, leaving behind the extracellular matrix (ECM). The ECM contains a preserved network of collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid, and glycoproteins, which acts as a natural scaffold. This structure provides a framework for the recipient's own skin cells to attach and regenerate, aiming to soften fine lines, tighten pores, and improve overall skin texture.
"It's just the skin tissue with all the cells stripped out in order to prevent immune rejection and allergic side effects," Kim Han-saem, chief dermatologist at Seoul’s DoD Dermatology Clinic, told Bloomberg. Unlike some other skin boosters that stimulate the body's natural collagen production, Re2O provides a structural foundation for rebuilding the skin.
Reports from individuals who have undergone the treatment suggest noticeable results. Some users describe the skin feeling smoother and more refined, with a reduction in pore visibility. One patient, Sara Yoon, found Re2O particularly beneficial for drier, thinner skin, noting more immediate results compared to other treatments. Another individual, a makeup artist who goes by NamVo on TikTok, described the experience as painful but ultimately worthwhile, likening her skin's post-treatment appearance to that of a "newborn baby dumpling."
Despite growing interest, Elravie Re2O is not yet approved by the FDA for use in the United States. However, some providers are reportedly offering the treatment, with the manufacturer, L&C Bio Co., actively pursuing market entry. Ethical considerations have been raised regarding the use of human tissue for cosmetic purposes when it could potentially be needed for reconstructive surgeries, such as breast reconstruction or burn treatment. Questions also remain about the long-term safety and duration of Re2O's effects, although initial studies from Korea suggest it is safe.
"While the treatment seems safe based on Korean studies, all patients considering any medical treatment should consult with a qualified plastic surgeon or dermatologist prior, understanding the risks and benefits for each procedure," said Dr. Eunice Park, founder of Airem, a medical aesthetic spa in New York City. The procedure involves numbing cream application prior to injections, with reported pain levels varying among individuals.