Dermocosmetics combine dermatological science with cosmetics, offering specialized skincare positioned between conventional beauty products and topical medicines. EXOPROXYL, a dermocosmetic brand launched by AGEON and its founder Hyunseon Seo, who studied biomedical engineering at Johns Hopkins University, has been experiencing repeated sellouts through word of mouth.
According to the company, more than 25,000 units were sold through its online store alone within eight months of launch, with new inventory repeatedly selling out shortly after restocking.
At the heart of this success is CICA EXOSOmethod Ampoule, EXOPROXYL’s first cream-textured ampoule.
With its simple approach to skincare and accessible price, the ampoule has encouraged customers to stock up and recommend it to others. The company attributes this enthusiasm to users noticing benefits without a complicated skincare routine and is working to keep up with demand.
AGEON is a startup founded by Seo, whose personal experience with severe atopic dermatitis inspired her interest in skincare. Drawing on her research background in cellular delivery mechanisms and her own struggles with sensitive skin, she launched EXOPROXYL to explore new possibilities in skin science.
CICA EXOSOmethod Ampoule features plant-derived CICA exosomes, which the brand describes as being included at Korea’s highest concentration at the time of launch. Exosomes are tiny extracellular vesicles involved in communication between cells and have attracted growing interest in skincare research.
Formulated to support the skin’s moisture barrier and promote a healthy, radiant appearance, the ampoule also contains EGF and nine peptides. According to the brand, it is recognized by Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety as a functional cosmetic for wrinkle improvement and brightening.
Available in Korean pharmacies, the product has earned the nickname “the exosome glow pharmacy ampoule.” The company reports that users have praised its hydration, radiance, and skin tone benefits after approximately ten days of use.
The brand also cites testing conducted by the OATC Skin Clinical Trial Center, with reported improvements including:
- Skin elastic recovery: 56.97%
- Surface skin elasticity: 4.71%
- Deeper skin elasticity: 3.37%
- Appearance of pigmentation and dark spots present for over five years: 13.35%
- Skin redness: 6.02%
- Skin brightness: 1.81%
- Skin clarity: 2.88%
- Skin tone evenness: 2.85%
Results are as reported in the original article. Individual results may vary.
Developed by bioscience specialists, the ampoule reflects the brand’s focus on formulation and affordability. AGEON says it prioritized exosome concentration while reducing unnecessary packaging components and streamlining production to keep prices accessible.
Interest has also extended beyond Korea. According to the company, visitors from Taiwan, Singapore, and the United States have sought out pharmacies carrying EXOPROXYL to purchase the product in larger quantities.
Looking Ahead
EXOPROXYL aims to become a leading Korean dermocosmetic brand through continued research and development. Alongside its ampoule, toner pads, and mist, the company has outlined plans for creams, sheet masks, cleansers, and serums. It is also exploring colostrum- and fig-derived exosomes, azulene, and PDRN.
At the time of the original article, the brand’s first GS Home Shopping broadcast was scheduled for April 12, 2025, at noon, marking an early milestone in its growth.
Seo’s vision is to make skin science more accessible through Korean pharmacy skincare. With a commitment to research and reasonable pricing, she hopes EXOPROXYL can help more people achieve healthier-looking skin.