News and Analysis

Neurocosmetics brands such as Selfmade and Justhuman are marketing skincare products that purportedly not only improve skin conditions, but also mental health. While there is a recognised connection between dermatology and psychology, no cream or serum has been proven by double-blind placebo studies to boost mood-enhancing chemicals like serotonin or beta-endorphins in the brain. Dermatological improvements can affect mental health indirectly, for example, by boosting self-esteem, and the sensory pleasure of skincare routines can also reduce stress. However, neurocosmetics products’ touted efficacy could be misleading, and more research is required.