Neurocosmetics: a brain-changer for your health?

What are neurocosmetics?

The idea of putting something on your skin to influence how you feel seems almost futuristic. However, as Dr Hazel Parkinson of Dr Hazel Skin Solutions explains, the biology behind what she calls ‘psychodermatology’ and the skin’s neuroendocrine system - which translates brain signals into chemical responses - is very real.

“Neurocosmetics are designed to interact with the skin’s nerves and signaling systems to reduce unpleasant sensations - such as stinging, itching, burning - or improve comfort and wellbeing,” describes the Long Itchington-based GP.

She adds, however, that the clinical evidence for many neurocosmetic ingredients is limited.

“So far, it remains partly ahead of the evidence,” she says. “Far more high-quality research is needed to prove whether these products really do what they promise.”

Why does our skin sometimes flare up under stress?

Under stress, your brain triggers your body’s stress response, which raises cortisol and other stress chemicals.

According to Parkinson, this can:

• Weaken your skin barrier - making it more sensitive and prone to water loss.

• Increase nerve-driven inflammation - causing redness and itch.

• Activate your immune system - contributing to acne, eczema, or psoriasis flare-ups.

• Change behaviours - such as sleep, diet, or skin-picking, which can worsen breakouts.

So, can soothing your skin really calm your mind?

Some clinical studies suggest that boosting skin comfort and barrier health can lead to better sleep and less itching or irritation.

Parkinson points out that there’s still limited evidence that sensory-only skincare can reliably impact mood, anxiety, or brain activity.

For example:

• A small trial in people with atopic dermatitis found that using emollients reduced itching and improved sleep compared with those who didn’t.

• An exploratory study of a fragranced skin cream reported improved self-reported wellbeing in participants with sensitive skin - though it lacked blinding and biomarker measurements.

In short, there are encouraging signs, but the evidence remains far from conclusive.

Ingredients and sensory effects that may calm your skin

Some ingredients work directly on the skin’s nerves, while others rely on sensory effects - such as texture, cooling, or fragrance.

Parkinson outlines those that could help.

Are neurocosmetics just a soothing self-care experience?

In conclusion, further clinical trials are needed to confirm whether neurocosmetics truly influence both skin condition and emotional wellbeing.

“A topical cream isn’t going to meaningfully rewire your brain chemistry in a medical sense,” says Parkinson. “Almost none of it is absorbed into the body. However, creams can influence nerve signals from your skin and scent-related inputs, which can affect perception, comfort, and stress responses.

“I’d frame neurocosmetics as well-designed sensory self-care products that may help reduce skin discomfort and promote relaxation - not as medical treatments for mental health.”