We usually evaluate skincare products based on measurable outcomes, such as smoother skin, improved texture, or reduced depigmentation. But what if the day cream you apply every morning is having a hidden impact beyond your skin? Recent neuroscientific and dermatological research reveals that certain ingredients in over-the-counter facial products, can influence your mood, stress levels, and even hormone balance.
We spoke to Dr Vidushi Jain, Dermatologist and Medical Head, Dermalinks Clinics, Noida and Ghaziabad, who explained the link between face cream and mood disturbances.
The Skin-Mind Connection: More Real Than You Think
"Your skin is more than just a passive barrier; it's a dynamic, interactive organ that constantly communicates with your nervous and endocrine systems. Known as the 'neuro-immuno-cutaneous system,' this intricate network orchestrates a delicate dance between your skin, brain, and immune system. As a result, topical applications can penetrate and interact with this complex system, either soothing or irritating it," said Dr Jain.
Ingredients That Could Be Impacting Your Mood
1. Fragrances and Preservatives
“Fragrances and parabens are two of the most common culprits that can interfere with hormonal equilibrium or initiate inflammation. A few of the synthetic fragrances have also been recognised to contribute to headaches, nervousness, and wooziness, especially in more sensitive people,” added Dr Jain.
2. Endocrine Disruptors
Chemicals, such as phthalates, parabens, and oxybenzone mimic oestrogenic, and other hormone-like activities, and might be upsetting your internal equilibrium. With ongoing research, long-term use will impact not just reproductive function, but mood swings and sleep, too.
Also Read: When Should You Ideally Apply Your Eye-Cream? Dermat Weighs In
3. Essential Oils: Not Always 'Essential'
While tea tree and lavender oil are widely sold as soothing oils, there are essential oils that are allergens or irritants to skin exposure. These oils cause an inflammatory response in sensitive skin that can lead to irritability or be mistaken for fatigue.
4. Steroid or Medicated Creams
Systemic absorption after casual daily use of topical corticosteroids leads to mood change, sleep impairment, or mildly depressive-like behaviour.
On the Bright Side: Empowering Skincare
Not all that we use for skincare is a mood-killer. Instead, there are some ingredients that are mood-elevating and anxiety-reducing:
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Repairs skin barrier and perhaps calms anxiety by its calming, anti-inflammatory effect.
- Aloe Vera and Chamomile: Both are well established for calming sedative and anti-anxiety effects when used topically.
- Sunlight-activated products: Can be useful for mood modulation, especially for those getting little sunlight.
It's Not About Products, It's About Rituals Too
“We also should not forget the emotional value of skincare. Washing, moisturising, and masking the face in itself is soothing and healing. But against the background of anxiety, insecurity, or obsession (picking at skin or over-washing), skincare is a battlefield of emotional struggle,” added Dr Jain.
What Should You Do
When you think of skincare, it's not just about what you put on your skin, but also how it affects your overall health. Here are some measures listed by Dr Jain that you should follow:
- Always read the labels and steer clear of products that contain a lot of unpronounceable chemicals.
- Always patch test before application of any new product to eliminate potential allergic reactions or sensitivities.
- If you experience unusual skin reactions, mood or irritability, have the underlying cause evaluated by a dermatologist.
- Base your skincare product choice on the facts, don't follow trends blindly. Messing around with this year's trend won't do your skin any good, but your fashion sense might.
- Listen to your mind and body. If you're 'off' on a product or can't feel at ease applying it, trust it. Perhaps your body is simply trying to get your attention and tell you that something is amiss.
Bottomline
Dr Jain concluded, “Your skincare routine should nourish, not stress you out. As we continue to uncover the intricate connections between skin and brain, it becomes clear that what you apply to your face sends a message to your entire body, not just your skin. So, next time you reach for face cream, remember: it's not just about skin; it's about your overall well-being, including your mental calmness and hormonal balance.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]