Diving Head-First Into Neurocosmetics
What Are Neurocosmetics?
Neurocosmetics is an emerging opportunity in the skincare market that centers on the connection between the nervous system and the skin. This approach to skincare, and the products developed as a result, take into consideration how the skin’s sensory receptors interact with ingredients to influence cellular responses, mood, and overall skin health.
In addition to targeting visible concerns like wrinkles or dryness, neurocosmetics aim to work on a deeper level by affecting neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and skin-brain communication pathways to deliver both cosmetic, as well as sensory benefits to the user.
How Do Neurocosmetic Products Work?
The skin contains a network of nerve endings and receptors that send signals to the brain. Certain ingredients in neurocosmetic products are designed to influence this communication, promoting relaxation, reducing stress-related damage, or enhancing repair processes, whereas some other ingredients may stimulate the release of endorphins or block stress signals that contribute to inflammation and premature aging.
What Are The Benefits of Neurocosmetic Products?
Neurocosmetic products are an evolving area of research and discovery, with a number of different active ingredients having their own unique benefits. Neurocosmetics can help address redness and breakouts, improve your skin’s ability to recover from environmental damage, support a healthier skin barrier, as well as in some cases provide a sensory experience that may improve the users’ well-being, similar to aromatherapy treatments.
What Are The Active Ingredients in Neurocosmetics?
Similar to the way different ingredients are selected for their benefits on skin, there are a number of ingredients that are used for different purposes in the context of neurocosmetics.
Neuropeptides
Neuropeptides are signaling molecules that influence communication between nerve cells and skin cells, affecting collagen production, inflammation control, and stress response. While conventional peptides primarily support skin structure by boosting collagen and elastin, neuropeptides also interact with the nervous system to regulate cellular behavior. This makes them useful for improving skin firmness, enhancing repair, and assisting the skin’s response to external stressors.
Adaptogens
Adaptogens help the skin manage stress by balancing cortisol levels and supporting its natural defense mechanisms by modulating stress-related signals that can lead to premature aging, redness, and sensitivity.
Rather than solely stimulating or restricting a particular response, adaptogens work to restore a natural balance in our bodies. By promoting balance, adaptogens contribute to healthier, calmer, and more resilient skin.
These plant-derived compounds interact with the skin’s nervous system to reduce inflammation, strengthen the barrier, and improve resilience against environmental aggressors. Common adaptogens in skincare include ashwagandha, ginseng, rhodiola, and holy basil.
Cannabinoids (CBD, CBG)
Cannabinoids, the non-psychoactive components in cannabis and hemp products, have been extensively studied and found to help regulate inflammation, support the skin barrier, and balance stress-related responses. Compounds like CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol) interact with the skin’s endocannabinoid system, which influences processes like oil production, hydration, and immune response.
Cannabinoids can calm irritation, reduce redness, and promote overall skin balance. By working with the nervous system, cannabinoids help the skin recover from external stressors while improving comfort and resilience.
Prebiotics & Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain a balanced skin environment, while prebiotics serve as nutrients that fuel their growth. Together, they strengthen the skin barrier, reduce irritation, and improve hydration.
By influencing the communication between skin cells and the nervous system, these ingredients can help calm reactive skin, protect against environmental stressors, and promote a healthier complexion.
Magnesium & Other Minerals
Magnesium and other minerals in neurocosmetics help regulate nerve function, reduce inflammation, and support the skin’s natural repair processes. Magnesium, in particular, calms stressed skin by controlling cortisol levels and relaxing nerve activity. Zinc aids in wound healing and oil regulation, while copper supports collagen production and elasticity. These minerals strengthen the skin barrier, improve hydration, and enhance resilience against environmental stressors, making them essential for maintaining a balanced and healthy complexion.
Get Started With Neurocosmetic Products
Neurocosmetics present an opportunity for skincare brands to move beyond traditional formulations and tap into the connection between skin health and the nervous system. By incorporating ingredients that influence neurotransmitters, stress responses, and cellular communication, brands can create products that address both physical and emotional aspects of skincare.
With growing consumer interest in holistic wellness, neurocosmetics offer a compelling way to differentiate products while meeting the demand for effective, science-backed solutions. Contact Clamar Cosmetics to discuss the development of your next neurocosmetic product.