The Inspifactory Series - Episode 7: Psychodermatology

Is psychodermatology the next trend for dermocosmetics ?

As consumers look more and more for solutions with holistic benefits to health and beauty, dermocosmetic products have witnessed a worldwide surge.

Although there is no official definition, dermocosmetics are cosmetic products,  scientifically and safely designed that supports skin health with clinically-proven skin benefits and will likely be endorsed by a medical figure (physician, dermatologist or aesthetic surgeon) or developed with pharmaceutical expertise. 

Historically born in France during the 1960’s, the dermocosmetics market has moved from a niche to a mainstream segment, especially as skin disorders (allergies, acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, etc) are on rise.

Therefore, the global dermocosmetics market represented 15% of the global cosmetic market in 2020, which is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% during 2020–2030, reaching $115.2 billion. Europe was the largest market in 2020 and India is expected to be the fastest growing market over the period⁽¹⁾.

Recently, a new discipline is drawing interest for the development of dermocosmetics: psychodermatology. 

Born around 25 years ago but still niche, it’s a combination of psychology and dermatology and acknowledges the link between the psychological state and the skin. Indeed,  research increasingly reveals that skin health is intrinsically linked to emotional well-being, and conversely. 

In a post-pandemic world, consumers seek holistic health and wellness benefits.

Indeed, for 71% of European consumers, cosmetics are important in improving quality of life, for 70% in boosting their self-esteem⁽²⁾.

Therefore, cosmetic products inspired by the psychodermatology approach could become more popular by bringing skin care efficacy and at the same time, by boosting well-being and by encouraging positive feelings.

Our cosmetic active solution for a psychodermatology concept :

By mastering botanical extraction, our scientists designed CERAMOSIDES™ HP (Glycosphingolipids - glycolipids), a highly-purified active ingredient from wheat flour. Composed of plant-based ceramides, similar to those of the skin, it demonstrates efficacy in maintaining healthy skin while boosting self-esteem. 

At very low concentration, it ensures skin health, by moisturizing it, tightening pores and refining skin texture. It also protects skin elasticity and firmness. Finally, it significantly encourages sensations of joy and calm while reducing feelings of sadness and nervousness, evaluated by a neuroscience expert.

Our illustrative formula for a psychodermatology-inspired concept

The Cica stick is enriched with derma care active ingredients and enables a nomadic gesture for taking care of sensitive skin. 

CERAMOSIDES™ HP is associated with TECA, the iconic blend of actives extracted from Centella asiatica, restores the skin integrity and soothes it.

EMOGREEN™ L19, in combination with LANOL 14 M, brings a gliding effect on the skin and leaves a soft and powdery afterfeel. MONTANOV™ 202 participates in the stick stability but also provides a restructuring and moisturizing effect. 

Formulated without perfume, mineral oils or animal derivatives, this stick is the perfect ally of dry and sensitive skins.

Discover our formulas with CERAMOSIDES™ HP

For the future, as for consumers, the skin seems to no longer be the domain of just the epidermis, cosmetic brands may highlight both the proven-efficacy and emotional benefits of their products. 

_{⁽¹⁾ Data from P&S Intelligence
⁽²⁾ Personal Care Insights - A study by Cosmetics Europe, through online questionnaires across ten European countries: Bulgaria, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden and the UK.}