What are neurocosmetics?
The connection between our skin and our mind is a trending topic in the beauty world - but what does the science say?
A blend of neuroscience and dermatology, neurocosmetic products claim to benefit our skin and our mental wellbeing.
We take a look at the science behind the skincare, and explain how you could support your skin health, while boosting your brain health.
This article explores:
- What are neurocosmetics?
- Neurocosmetics and the brain-skin connection
- What are typical neurocosmetics ingredients?
- Neurocosmetics and cortisol
- Do neurocosmetics actually work?
- How else can I support my skin?
What are neurocosmetics?
Neurocosmetics are skincare products designed to influence the connection between your brain and your skin. They aim to improve your skin health and boost your mood by using ingredients that interact with your skin’s nervous system.
Each neurocosmetic product contains “oxytocin boosting” ingredients designed to stimulate the skin-brain axis. The result? Improved wellbeing and healthier skin.
The main goals of neurocosmetics are to:
- Interact with your skin’s neurosensory system
- Enhance your skin health
- Lower your stress levels (by lowering cortisol)
- Elevate your mood and wellbeing
Neurocosmetics and the brain-skin connection
So, what is the skin-brain axis? Put simply, it’s the continual internal chatter between our skin and our brain.
You might not have thought about your brain and skin being connected before. But our skin can be extremely expressive when it comes to emotions:
- Goosebumps when scared
- Sweating when stressed
- Blushing when embarrassed or happy
These are responses from the brain giving the skin information.
Then there’s the emotional reactions from the skin to environmental changes:
- Shock from jumping into a cold lake
- Calm when applying your favourite face cream
- Happiness from stroking a pet
Your feelings are responses from your skin giving your brain information, triggering an emotional response.
All this comes down to communication from the brain to the skin: the brain-skin axis.
Cortisol: the effects of stress on skin
So now we know neurocosmetics tap into the skin-brain axis. But how do they work?
The main response to stress and negative emotions in our body is release of a stress hormone: cortisol.
You may notice in times of stress your eczema or psoriasis flares up or you breakout in acne.
Lack of sleep can lead to dry skin, reduced elasticity, and dark circles, as well as causing an increase in cortisol production.
Additionally, poor diet causes your body stress (not to mention nutrient deficiencies). All of which affect your skin. You can see why calming your cortisol could be beneficial to both your mind and your skin health.
What are typical neurocosmetic ingredients?
Neurocosmetic ingredients are chosen because they can activate receptors in our skin, producing certain responses.
This includes receptors responsible for:
- Inflammation
- Sebum production (what makes our skin oily)
- Sensory perception
- Pigmentation
- Recovery and repair
What sets neurocosmetics apart from other skincare products, is their effect on skin-brain communication.
Cannabidiol (CBD)
Known for its soothing properties, CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors to reduce stress and inflammation.
Using neurocosmetic products with cannabidiol not only regulates sebum production, but it can reduce inflammation, with the added bonus of potentially making you feel a little more relaxed [1,2].
Adaptogens
Powerful plant extracts such as ashwagandha and ginseng can help the body adapt to stress and keep your mood in balance.
Adaptogenic mushroom extracts in neurocosmetics are thought to provide your brain and skin with protective effects, reducing inflammation with valuable antioxidant properties.
Zinc
One of the most common metal ions in our central nervous system, zinc is also important for skin health.
It's used for regeneration and protection in skincare and keeping our immune systems and cognitive function running smoothly [3,4].
Peptides
Peptides support the skin’s natural repair processes. They support communication between skin cells.
Botanicals and essential oils
Lavender, passionflower, rosemary are just some of the botanicals used for their calming effects.
Sensory effects like menthol can revitalise and soothe.
Nootropics
Usually associated with cognitive function, nootropics are used in neurocosmetics with the aim of enhancing focus and uplifting your mood, while maintaining collagen production [5].
Do neurocosmetics actually work?
The truth: there’s limited scientific evidence. These products won’t cure your depression or illicit any actual brain changes – that would make them a drug, not a cosmetic. But the ritual of applying skincare – enjoying the texture, scent, and self-care moment – can reduce stress hormones and boost mood. The effect might be more about mindfulness than the molecules.
Finding products that suit your skin’s needs, treating your body well, and taking time to look after yourself are the winning combo.
How else can I support my skin and brain health?
Neurocosmetics aside, nourishing your skin starts on the inside.
Supporting your body with the right nutrients and looking after your gut health can contribute to healthier-looking skin and a sharper brain function.
Check your omega balance
One of the biggest skincare secrets? Omega-3 fatty acids.
It’s usually associated with brain health, but your omega balance also plays an important role in your skin health.
Hydration, sensitivity, and ageing are all affected by omega-3. For a more in-depth look, check out our blog on the link between omega-3, inflammation, and skin health.
Keep an eye on your iron
One of the most common deficiencies in women, iron deficiency can also leave your skin looking neglected.
It can show up in a few different ways, and you may notice other symptoms like tiredness and brain fog.
Love your gut bacteria
If there is a gut-brain axis, and a skin-brain axis, does that mean there is a skin-gut-brain axis? Researchers certainly think so.
Keeping your gut bacteria happy can have a positive effect on your mind and your skin.
Prebiotics, probiotics – whichever you choose, just opt for whole, minimally processed foods for best results.
Not sure where to get started? We’ve got five foods to boost your brain that might help.
If you want to check your skin is getting all the support it can, and make sure there aren’t any underlying issues that might be affecting your skin, our Skin IQ Blood Test could give you more insights.
References
- Kuzumi A, Yoshizaki-Ogawa A, Fukasawa T, Sato S, Yoshizaki A. The Potential Role of Cannabidiol in Cosmetic Dermatology: A Literature Review. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2024;25: 951–966.
- Haykal D, Berardesca E, Kabashima K, Dréno B. Beyond beauty: Neurocosmetics, the skin-brain axis, and the future of emotionally intelligent skincare. Clin Dermatol. 2025;43: 523–527.
- Foster L, Foppiani JA, Xun H, Lee D, Utz B, Hernandez Alvarez A, et al. Zinc in Dermatology: Exploring Its Emerging Role in Enhancing Botulinum Toxin Formulations and Clinical Efficacy. Curr Issues Mol Biol. 2024;46: 12088–12098.
- Li Z, Liu Y, Wei R, Yong VW, Xue M. The Important Role of Zinc in Neurological Diseases. Biomolecules. 2022;13: 28.
- Jongsma E, Grigolon G, Baumann J, Weinkove D, Ewald CY, Wandrey F, et al. Timut Pepper Extract Slows Age-Dependent Decline of Mobility and Collagen Loss and Promotes Longevity. Nutrients. 2024;16: 2122.