The invention provides compositions of matter, methods and treatment means for improving cosmetic appearance of skin and restoring aged or damaged skin to a healthy appearance. One embodiment, the invention teaches administration of autologous adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells that have been cultured under “activating conditions”. In one specific embodiment activation is performed prior to administration of cells into patients skin. In another embodiment adipose derived cells are administered systemically, with localization of stem cells to skin by administration of a localizing agent, said localizing agent comprising either a peptide a protein or a photoceutical.
