Neurocosmetics for the well-being of skin and brain

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

The skin and nervous system are deeply connected. The sense of touch is mediated by the skin, making it a precursor to sensations and emotions: in every sense, it acts as an extension of the central nervous system. This is why many skin conditions can have a psychosomatic component.

In this context, neurocosmetics is gaining ground as a branch of dermocosmetics that goes beyond the traditional concept of skincare and offers a holistic approach to self-care.

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What is neurocosmetics?

The concept is not entirely new: it dates back to the early 2000s and is defined as the use of bioactive skincare products designed to work at the neurological level.

Neurocosmetic products are particularly well suited to combating stress at the skin level and addressing signs of premature aging. L’modern cosmetics industry conducts extensive research into functional ingredients that can improve interactions between the skin and the nervous system.

Neurocosmetics is based on a holistic approach: it moves from a compartmentalized view, which sees different organs as independent, to a broader perspective on the 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 neurocosmetics work

The relationship between the skin and the nervous system was long overlooked, but today it is one of the most fascinating areas 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 messengers produced by skin cells such as keratinocytes, melanocytes, or fibroblasts. Their release can be triggered by physical, chemical, or emotional stimuli.

Neurocosmetic ingredients work through two main mechanisms:

• directly on the skin's nerve fiber endings, acting as neurotransmitter modulators;
• or by modulating the functions of cells or receptors.

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

There's also an aspect that shouldn't be overlooked: sensory appeal. A formula's texture, its packaging, and the daily skincare ritual all contribute to the results. Cosmetics are part of our routine and help us regain self-confidence and, in turn, 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 sets off a chain reaction: the disruption of skin homeostasis triggers inflammation, resulting in a tired, dull appearance.

High cortisol levels have several effects on the skin:

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

Neurocosmetics can help restore homeostasis through a feedback mechanism.

The role of beta-endorphins

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

β-endorphin receptors are also expressed in skin cells, where they play a role in tissue renewal and repair, contributing to overall skin quality.

Neurophroline™: the ingredient chosen by LeLang

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

In in vitro tests, Neurophroline™ reduced cortisol production by skin cells by 70% within two hours and stimulated β-endorphin release by 163% 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 standard practice for cosmetic ingredients: they indicate the potential efficacy of the ingredient in a formula and are not equivalent to independent clinical studies.

Essentia Spa: LeLang's neurocosmetic range

The Essentia Spa range is designed to provide deep sensory pleasure and engage 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 sense of well-being.

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

Follow with body cream, which deeply nourishes with shea butter and plant oils, or use massage oil for a more intensive evening treatment.

How to incorporate neurocosmetics into your routine

LeLang's neurocosmetic approach is tailored to the skin's needs. We've 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 routine, to identify and manage the effects of high cortisol.

Through ongoing research and a commitment to innovation, LeLang offers a range that provides not only products but also everyday wellness experiences.