Neurocosmetics for the well-being of skin and brain

There is a close connection between skin and mind, a deep bond that has always fascinated the scientific community and beauty experts. The body, in fact, responds to the mental state in surprising ways, for example by manifesting skin rashes or sensations of tension on the skin. The skin, in fact, is a wonderful and complex organ that manages the relationship between us and the external world and provides us with the necessary information to understand it better.

The skin has a dynamic structure, constantly changing and evolving over time along with us, adapting to our habits and the environment. Skin and the nervous system are deeply connected; the sense of touch felt through contact makes the skin a precursor of sensations and therefore emotions, which is why the skin acts as an extension of the central nervous system. For this reason, many skin conditions can stem from psychological discomfort. It is no coincidence that many reactions such as dermatitis or dry skin can have psychosomatic causes. 

In this context, neurocosmetics is emerging, a branch of dermocosmetics that brings with it promises of beauty and well-being that go far beyond the traditional concept of skincare, a new and more mindful way of taking care of oneself with a global approach.

The concept of neurocosmetics is not too innovative: it dates back to the early 2000s and is defined as the use of bioactive skin care products, designed to operate at the neurological level.

The neurocosmetic products are particularly indicated for combating stress at the skin level and acting against the signs of premature aging, because the modern cosmetics industry conducts multiple studies in search of highly functional ingredients that can improve the interactions between the skin and the nervous system.

Neurocosmetics is part of a holistic approach to skin condition, and through this new branch of cosmetology, we gradually move from a sectoral view of the different organs considered as independent, to a global view of the extensive network of hormones, cytokines, and neuropeptides that closely connect mind and body. Skin, nervous system, and immune system are integrated into a single network. 

How neurocosmetics work

The skin/nervous system relationship has long been overlooked, but today it represents one of the most interesting fields of study in skin biology. Neurocosmetic products are a very effective care tool that can bridge the world of traditional cosmetics and the latest discoveries in the neurological field. Thanks to the close connection between the skin and the brain, it is now possible to experiment with innovative ways to stimulate the skin and keep it healthy and beautiful.

The appearance of the skin is synonymous with good health and well-being, and the cosmetic product aims to preserve well-being over time and is used precisely to eliminate the barrier between beauty and health. There are many cosmetic forms, and each corresponds to a function, including the improvement of a specific skin imperfection. 

On their part, neurocosmetic products have surpassed the concept of traditional cosmetics as they are able to chemically influence the skin-brain connection.

Neurocosmetics represent a true revolution in the world of cosmetics. These are products to be applied to the skin that have activity on the cutaneous nervous system or generally effects on skin mediators. Neurocosmetics allow for the combination of functional ingredients of natural origin with scientific research. Today's consumers are demanding and seek natural, green products, and above all, those that possess functional efficacy. 

The skin, as we have seen, has a system for monitoring environmental changes and environmental perception and produces stimuli that are transmitted to the nervous system through mediators.

These agents can be neurotransmitters: they are indeed chemical messages produced by skin cells such as keratinocytes, melanocytes, or fibroblasts. The release of neuromediators can be induced by physical, chemical, or emotional stimuli. 

Neurocosmetic ingredients can act through different mechanisms: 

• directly on the endings of the cutaneous nerve fibers as modulators of neurotransmitters; 
• or modulating the functions of cells or receptors. 

There are many functional ingredients capable of performing neuromodulatory actions, such as biomimetic peptides or certain plant extracts. These ingredients allow for specific benefits on the skin, such as combating stress and oxidative response, thus delaying skin aging. 

Moreover, the world of skincare has always been oriented towards the pursuit of well-being and pleasantness. The formulations can provide a sensory pleasure, as can the packaging and the skincare ritual to be repeated daily. Cosmetics are part of our beauty routine, allowing us to regain confidence in ourselves, more self-esteem, and therefore well-being. 

Fighting stress with neurocosmetics

In addition to improving the condition of the epidermis, neurocosmetics can provide those who try it with a general sense of well-being, a sensory pleasantness of the product itself, and a quality mental and emotional engagement.

In the case of neurocosmetics, it is about tangible results that can revolutionize the concept of beauty routine and transform skincare into a true ritual of pleasure and self-care. 

In everyday life, we are overwhelmed by psychological stress, but there are physical stress factors such as: 

• pollution
• the UV rays
• the blue light
• the lack of rest
• the general concerns

If the stress situation is prolonged over time, for example, if one lives in a highly polluted city or does not get enough sleep, the cells never stop producing cortisol, which is the stress hormone, and this produces cascading consequences, for example, the breakdown of skin homeostasis induces an inflammatory state that is reflected in a tired appearance.

The neurocosmetics can act by restoring the state of homeostasis of the skin through a feedback mechanism. 

A high level of cortisol has several effects on the skin: 

• Activate the level of glycation that damages collagen and elastin. As a result, the skin's ability to repair itself is slowed down. 
• The degradation of dermal proteins occurs. 
• Excessive skin dryness due to decreased production of hyaluronic acid, dryness associated with a loss of transdermal water.
• Appearance of signs such as fine lines and wrinkles due to reduced functionality of the skin barrier. 

A key strategy for skin wellness lies in the β-endorphins, neurotransmitter peptides produced at the level of the central nervous system that induce analgesia, meaning the absence of pain. In particular, β-endorphins act on opioid receptors and stimulate the pleasure centers in the brain, generating feelings of euphoria. The β-endorphin receptors are expressed in skin cells and can accelerate skin regeneration and wound healing, overall improving the qualitative appearance of the skin. 

The LeLang laboratories have selected the ingredient Neurophroline™ for the creation of a line of neurocosmetic products indicated for skin wellness. Produced from the seeds of Tephrosia purpurea, Neurophroline™ is designed to combat the effects of the multiple sources of stress present in daily life. 

In detail, Neurophroline™ acts by reducing cortisol production by skin cells (-70% within 2 hours, in vitro) and stimulating the release of β-endorphins (+163% within 24 hours, in vitro). 

The in vivo efficacy of Neurophroline™ has also been demonstrated: within 2 weeks, volunteers recovered the color and brightness of their skin, and signs of stress were visibly reduced after a month of use, including dark circles, bags under the eyes, and redness. Neurophroline™ can be used to formulate anti-aging creams and products, serums, and body shaping products such as body creams and scrubs. 

Essentia Spa: the first line of LeLang based on neurocosmetics

Essentia Spa embraces the innovative concept of neurocosmetics. The Essentia Spa line is designed to infuse a deep sensory pleasure and achieve greater engagement of the mind as well as the body, all in perfect synergy. 

Essentia Spa, in addition to a set of stimulating essential oils for well-being, contains functional ingredients such as Tephrosia Purpurea* which has the ability to reduce skin stress and promote a total sense of well-being.

This ingredient, inspired by neurocosmetics, has demonstrated a 70% reduction in cortisol production in skin cells in just two hours. Furthermore, it activates the release of a natural calming neuropeptide and stimulates the synthesis of beta-endorphins. In this way, it helps to make the skin radiant and conveys feelings of pleasure and relaxation. 

Through the new line of cosmetics Essentia Spa, LeLang confirms its leadership in the field of skincare. Through constant research and a commitment to innovation and natural well-being, LeLang has created a line that offers not just products but experiences that enrich people's daily lives.

Essentia Spa consists of neurocosmetic products designed to achieve maximum benefit for the skin and also for the mind, suitable for the entire body. 

Bibliography: https://www.mdpi.com/1191900