Neur/ae, a new French skincare brand owned by Sisley Paris, was recently launched at the Bibliothèque Nationale de France in Paris. The brand focuses on the deep connection between our skin and emotions, with the belief that mental health issues can manifest physically, such as in the form of acne due to stress. This connection has been known for centuries, with poet Paul Valéry even writing about it in the 19th century. The president of Sisley Paris, Philippe d’Ornano, was inspired by advances in neuroscience to create Neur/ae, which aims to connect skincare with overall wellbeing.
Professor Zoltan Sarnyai, head of the Laboratory of Psychiatric Neuroscience in Australia, notes that emotions can lead to elevated cortisol levels and histamine reactions, which can impact the skin. In a study linking emotions and acne, 67% of patients reported a connection between stress-inducing events and acne outbreaks. This highlights the importance of addressing emotional wellbeing in relation to skincare. Neur/ae takes its name from the Greek word for nerve, “Neur,” and “AE,” which stands for “Acting on Emotions,” emphasizing its focus on the emotional connection to skincare.
Sisley Paris worked with scientific organizations Mind Insight and Neuron Experts to better understand the connection between the brain, neurotransmitters, and the skin. By studying the effects of individual active ingredients on emotional states after application, they were able to create formulations that enhance positive neurotransmitters and modulate others, with the goal of improving skin health and overall wellbeing. This innovative approach to skincare highlights the importance of considering emotional wellbeing in skincare routines, addressing the impact of stress and emotions on skin health.
The launch event at the Bibliothèque Nationale de France showcased the brand’s commitment to blending science and poetry, with a focus on the profound connection between our skin and emotions. The poetic inspiration of Paul Valéry’s line, “The deepest thing in man is the skin,” symbolizes the brand’s belief in the intimate relationship between our physical appearance and our emotional state. By incorporating neuroscience research and scientific expertise, Neur/ae aims to revolutionize the skincare industry by addressing the emotional roots of skin issues and promoting overall wellness.
As we look in the mirror and see the effects of stress and emotions on our skin, it becomes clear that there is a deeper connection between our mental health and our physical appearance. Neur/ae seeks to bridge this gap by developing skincare products that not only target external concerns but also address the internal factors that contribute to skin issues. By unlocking the potential of neurotransmitters and utilizing scientific research, the brand offers a holistic approach to skincare that prioritizes emotional wellbeing and overall health. This innovative approach represents a new frontier in skincare, combining the wisdom of the past with the scientific advancements of the present to create a brand that truly cares for both our skin and our emotions.
