Neurocosmetics for the well-being of skin and brain

There is a close connection between the skin and the mind, a profound bond that has always fascinated the scientific community and beauty experts. The body responds to our mental state in surprising ways: skin breakouts, sensations of tightness, and redness that appears during moments of greatest pressure. The skin is a complex organ that manages the relationship between us and the outside world, providing us with the information we need to understand it.

The skin and nervous system are deeply connected. The sense of touch passes through the skin, which therefore becomes a precursor of sensations and emotions: it effectively acts as an extension of the central nervous system. This is why many skin conditions may have a psychosomatic component.

Against this backdrop, neurocosmetics has emerged: a branch of dermocosmetics that goes beyond the traditional concept of skincare and proposes a holistic approach to self-care.

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What is neurocosmetics?

The concept is not particularly recent: it dates back to the early 2000s and is defined as the use of bioactive skincare products designed to act at a neurological level.

Neurocosmetic products are particularly suitable for combating skin stress and acting on the signs of premature aging. The modern cosmetics industry conducts numerous studies in search of functional ingredients capable of improving interactions between the skin and nervous system.

Neurocosmetics forms part of a holistic approach: we move from a sector-specific view, which considers the various organs independently, to a global view of the extensive network of hormones, cytokines, and neuropeptides that connects mind and body. The skin, nervous system, and immune system are integrated into a single network.

How neurocosmetic products work

The relationship between the skin and nervous system was long overlooked, but today it represents one of the most interesting fields of study in skin biology. Neurocosmetic products bridge traditional cosmetics and the latest discoveries in neurology.

The skin has a system for monitoring environmental changes and produces stimuli that are transmitted to the nervous system through mediators. These agents may be neurotransmitters: chemical messages produced by skin cells such as keratinocytes, melanocytes, and fibroblasts. Their release may be induced by physical, chemical, or emotional stimuli.

Neurocosmetic ingredients act through two main mechanisms:

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

There are many functional ingredients with a neuromodulatory action, such as biomimetic peptides and certain plant extracts. They provide specific benefits: combating stress, reducing the oxidative response, and therefore slowing skin aging.

There is also a component that should not be underestimated: sensory pleasure. The texture of a formula, the packaging, and the daily act of the skincare ritual all contribute to the result. Cosmetics are part of our routine and help us regain self-confidence and, consequently, well-being.

Stress and cortisol: what happens to the skin

In everyday life, we are overwhelmed by psychological stress, but there are also physical stressors:

• pollution;
• UV rays;
• blue light;
• lack of rest;
• general worries.

If the situation continues over time, the cells never stop producing cortisol, the stress hormone. This triggers a cascade of effects: disruption of skin homeostasis induces a state of inflammation that is reflected in a tired, dull appearance.

High cortisol levels have several effects on the skin:

• promote glycation, which damages collagen and elastin, slowing the skin's ability to repair itself;
• cause the degradation of dermal proteins;
• cause skin dryness due to reduced production of hyaluronic acid, together with increased transepidermal water loss;
• promote the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles due to reduced functionality of the skin barrier.

Neurocosmetic products can support the return to homeostasis through a feedback mechanism.

The role of beta-endorphins

A key strategy for skin well-being lies in β-endorphins, neurotransmitter peptides produced by the central nervous system that act on opioid receptors and stimulate the pleasure centers in the brain.

β-endorphin receptors are also expressed in skin cells, where they participate in processes of tissue renewal and repair, contributing to the skin's overall quality.

Neurophroline™: the ingredient chosen by LeLang

LeLang laboratories selected Neurophroline™ to create a line of neurocosmetic products. Produced from the seeds of Tephrosia purpurea, it is designed to counteract the effects of the multiple sources of daily stress.

In tests conducted in vitro, Neurophroline™ showed a 70% reduction in cortisol production by skin cells within two hours and a 163% increase in the release of β-endorphins within 24 hours. In in vivo studies, volunteers regained color and radiance within two weeks, with a visible reduction in signs of stress—dark circles, puffiness, and redness—after one month of use.

These data come from tests conducted by the active ingredient's manufacturer, as is customary for cosmetic ingredients: they indicate potential efficacy in a formula and are not equivalent to independent clinical studies.

Essentia Spa: the LeLang neurocosmetic line

The Essentia Spa line is designed to inspire deep sensory pleasure and encourage greater engagement of the mind as well as the body. In addition to a blend of essential oils, it contains functional ingredients such as Tephrosia purpurea, which can reduce skin stress and promote a feeling of well-being.

The ritual can begin in the shower, with a cleanser that combines gentle surfactants and soothing extracts.

It continues with the body cream, which deeply nourishes thanks to shea butter and plant oils, or with the massage oil for a more intensive evening treatment.

How to incorporate neurocosmetics into your routine

The neurocosmetic approach can be adapted in different ways depending on the skin's needs. We have dedicated in-depth articles to each situation:

• Neurocosmetics for dry and dehydrated skin, when stress compromises the lipid barrier;
• Neurocosmetics for combination skin, to restore balance between dry areas and the T-zone;
• Reactive skin, cortisol face, and barrier-supporting routine, to recognize and manage the manifestations of high cortisol levels.

Through ongoing research and a commitment to innovation, LeLang offers a line that provides not only products but also daily experiences of well-being.