Neurocosmetics: The Fascinating World of the Skin-Nerve Connection

Neurocosmetics are innovative skincare products specially designed to interact with the skin’s nervous system, with the aim to improve skin health, combat aging, and reduce stress. The skin is our largest organ and plays a crucial role in our interaction with the outside world. As a dynamic sensory organ, it is directly connected to our nervous system, which forms the basis for this emerging field.

In this blog, we delve deeper into the world of neurocosmetics and discuss ten key neurocosmetic ingredients that form the basis of this revolutionary approach. These ingredients work together to reduce inflammation, promote cell renewal, and improve overall skin health.

What are neurocosmetics?

Neurocosmetics are special skincare products that contain ingredients specifically targeting nerve endings in the skin. These products help in reducing inflammation, promoting cell renewal, reducing wrinkles, and improving overall skin health.

The foundation of neurocosmetics lies in the interaction between the skin and the nervous system. Neurotransmitters such as neuropeptides and catecholamines play a major role in how our skin responds to external stimuli. These substances are not only produced in the nerves, but also in the skin, and influence cell growth, pigmentation, and inflammation. By better understanding and utilizing these processes, neurocosmetic products can improve skin health and reduce signs of aging.

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The skin and the nervous system originate from the same source and work closely together. This is called the neuro-immuno-cutaneous connection and plays an important role in the skin’s response to various stimuli. Neurocosmetics work by altering this connection, which not only improves skin health but also contributes to emotional well-being.

10 Neurocosmetic Ingredients

Below are neurocosmetic ingredients, most with exotic names, that are interesting in skincare.

1. Menthol – soothing the skin

Menthol is the most well-known and widely used ingredient in skin care products due to its cooling properties. It works by activating the TRPM8 receptor in the skin, which gives a cooling effect. This can help soothe irritated skin and reduce itching. Menthol is particularly effective in after-sun products and lotions for sensitive skin.

2. Botox-like Peptides (such as XEP™-018) – anti-aging

Botox-like peptides are synthetic substances that mimic the action of botulinum toxin. They work by modulating the release of neurotransmitters, leading to relaxation of the facial muscles and a reduction in wrinkles. These peptides are a safe and non-invasive alternative to botox injections and are often used in anti-aging creams and serums.

3. Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8 (Neutrazen) – sensitive skin

Palmitoyl tripeptide-8 is a biomimetic peptide that helps reduce inflammation and redness. It works by inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators such as interleukin-1 and interleukin-8. This ingredient is particularly useful for people with sensitive skin prone to rosacea and other inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema.

4. Acetyl Dipeptide-3 Aminohexanoate (Bodyfensine) – sensitive skin & anti-aging

Acetyl dipeptide-3 aminohexanoate works by strengthening the skin’s natural defense mechanisms. It aids in the regeneration of skin cells and the reduction of redness by modulating the neurocutaneous inflammatory response. This ingredient is often used in products for sensitive skin and anti-aging creams.

5. Agastache Mexicana Extract (Agascalm) – soothing and for sensitive skin

This plant extract reduces the release of inflammatory mediators and helps in reducing redness and vasodilation. It promotes skin hydration by 6%, reduces transepidermal water loss by 13% (TEWL), and improves the barrier function, leading to healthier and glowing skin. Agascalm is a popular ingredient in products for sensitive and stressed skin.

6. Tephrosia Purpurea Seed Extract (Betaphroline) – pain relief

Tephrosia purpurea seed extract is known for its ability to stimulate the release of β-endorphin, which can contribute to pain relief and overall skin well-being. This ingredient is often used in skincare products that aim to improve skin texture and reduce stress-related skin problems.

7. Ornithine (Adipofill’in) – anti-aging

Ornithine is an amino acid that helps in activating HIF-1α and increasing fat storage in human adipocytes. This leads to a “lipofilling” effect, resulting in fuller and tighter skin. Ornithine is often used in anti-aging products aimed at reducing wrinkle depth and skin roughness.

8. Glutamylamidoethyl Indole (Glistin) – anti-aging

Glutamylamidoethyl indole has a neurotrophic effect and protects against neurocutaneous damage. This ingredient helps reduce skin aging and improve skin structure by promoting communication between nerve cells and skin cells.

9. Schinus Terebinthifolia Extract (Euphoryl™ O3) – anti-aging

Schinus terebinthifolia extract stimulates the production of dopamine in the skin, which can improve blood supply and the skin barrier. This results in a more radiant and healthier skin. This ingredient is often used in skin care products targeting the improvement of skin texture and reduction of stress-related skin problems.

10. Vitex Agnus-Castus Extract (Happybelle-PE) – anti-aging

Vitex agnus-castus extract contains phyto-endorphins that bind to the µ-opioid receptor, which can contribute to anti-aging benefits and a radiant skin. This ingredient helps in improving skin hydration and reducing wrinkle depth, and is often used in luxury anti-aging products.

Is there a future for neurocosmetics or is it a hype?

It represents an innovative approach to skincare by harnessing the interaction between the skin and the nervous system. There are various advantages that suggest neurocosmetics have a promising future. Firstly, scientific studies support the effectiveness of neuroactive ingredients such as botox-like peptides and plant extracts, which can significantly improve skin health and appearance. These ingredients not only help in reducing wrinkles, but also enhance overall skin texture and radiance through the modulation of neurotransmitters. In addition, there is a growing demand from consumers for advanced, science-based skincare products, which further stimulates the market for neurocosmetics.

On the other hand, there are also some drawbacks and challenges that might limit neurocosmetics. The complexity of the skin-nerve connection makes it difficult to guarantee consistent and reproducible results. In addition, some claims of neurocosmetic products can be overstated or misunderstood by consumers, which can lead to disappointment and skepticism. Moreover, the development of neurocosmetics requires intensive research and rigorous clinical testing to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the products, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

Time will tell

How can Iconic Elements help you now?

Iconic Elements offers a range of products specifically designed to meet various skin needs.

Our Calming cream, enriched with marshmallow root, ectoine, and avena sativa, provides soothing relief for irritated skin. In addition, our Anti-Aging cream with vitamin C, E, and ferulic acid helps prevent premature skin aging by neutralizing free radicals. The Firming Booster serum, with bakuchiol, cyclopeptide-5, and white tea extract, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, while our Spotreducer cream and Targeted Pigment serum, with ingredients such as niacinamide, arbutin and malic acid, specifically tackle pigment spots. Each product is developed to support and improve your skin.

Now that you’re here

Skin problems can often occur, especially in times of stress – an inevitable part of our modern life. What you may not know is that stress not only affects your mental health, but also the condition of your skin. In this dermatological blog, we discuss the complex relationship between stress and skin problems. We also discuss how diet and specific supplements can play an important role in calming your skin, even during stressful periods. If you’re interested, click here.

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