# Personalized Neurocosmetics: A Comprehensive Review of Genomic and Epigenetic Approaches in Cosmetic Product Design

Reza Ghalamghash, Homa Hamayeli

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Reza Ghalamghash, Homa Hamayeli. Personalized Neurocosmetics: A Comprehensive Review of Genomic and Epigenetic Approaches in Cosmetic Product Design. 2025. hal-05217159

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# Personalized Neurocosmetics: A Comprehensive Review of Genomic and Epigenetic Approaches in Cosmetic Product Design

Reza Ghalamghash ¹*, Homa Hamayeli ²

1: PhD, Founder of Premium Doctors and Academic Director, Premium College, Toronto, Canada

2: PhD, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran

*Corresponding author: Reza Ghalamghash. Tel: +1 (647) 822-9570, E-mail: Reza@PremiumDoctors.org ORCID ID: 0009-0004-1745-1315

## Abstract

**Background:** The cosmetics industry is shifting from generic to personalized, science-driven products through the integration of neurocosmetics, genomics, and epigenetics. Neurocosmetics targets the skin-brain axis to enhance skin health and emotional well-being via neuromediators. Genomics identifies genetic polymorphisms (SNPs) for tailored formulations, while epigenetics reveals lifestyle-driven gene expression changes, enabling modulators like resveratrol to rejuvenate skin. AI and multi-omics accelerate customized product development, but ethical challenges, including data privacy and regulatory compliance, persist.

**Methods:** A systematic literature search (2014–2025) was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using keywords such as "neurocosmetics," "genomics in cosmetics," "epigenetics in skincare," and "personalized cosmetic design." Inclusion criteria prioritized peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses focusing on molecular mechanisms, clinical applications, technological innovations, and ethical considerations. Non-peer-reviewed sources and non-English articles were excluded
unless foundational. Data were synthesized thematically to identify trends, mechanisms, and
gaps.

**Results:** Neurocosmetics targets the skin-brain axis, modulating neuromediators like β-endorphins and substance P to improve skin health and emotional well-being, with ingredients like *Vitex agnus-castus* and *Rhodiola rosea* showing anti-aging effects (20-30% wrinkle reduction). Genomics identifies SNPs influencing skin phenotypes, enabling personalized formulations for collagen synthesis and oxidative stress. Epigenetics reveals reversible gene modifications, with modulators like resveratrol reducing biological skin age by 5-10 years in trials. AI and multi-omics platforms integrate GME (genome-microbiome-exposome) data for hyper-customized products, with clinical evidence showing 15-45% improvements in elasticity and hydration. Technological innovations include nanoencapsulation and microneedles for enhanced delivery. Ethical challenges include data privacy (80% consumer concern) and regulatory compliance under the Nagoya Protocol.

**Conclusions:** This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the molecular mechanisms, clinical applications, technological innovations, and ethical considerations at this nexus, illustrating how genomic and epigenetic approaches enable personalized neurocosmetics that address both physical and emotional skin needs. While promising, the field requires robust clinical trials for claims substantiation and ethical frameworks to address privacy and sourcing issues. Interdisciplinary research is essential to fully realize the potential of personalized neurocosmetics for skin health and well-being.

**Keywords:** Neurocosmetics, Genomics, Epigenetics, Personalized Cosmetics, Skin-Brain Axis, Aesthetic Medicine, Ethical Considerations, Technological Innovations.

# 1. Introduction

## 1.1. The Evolution of Cosmetic Science: From Traditional to Personalized Approaches

The cosmetics industry has evolved from empirical formulations to science-driven, personalized solutions, integrating neurocosmetics, genomics, and epigenetics (Rajagopal et
al., 2025). Traditional "one-size-fits-all" products are being replaced by tailored formulations that address individual genetic and epigenetic profiles (Ghelamghash & Hamayeli, 2025). Neurocosmetics targets the skin-brain axis to enhance emotional well-being, while genomics identifies SNPs for targeted therapies (Ghelamghash, 2025a). Epigenetics adds a dynamic layer, allowing modulation of gene expression influenced by lifestyle factors (Ghelamghash, 2025).

**1.2. Neurocosmetics: Targeting the Skin-Brain Axis**

Neurocosmetics leverages the neuro-immuno-cutaneous system (NICS) to develop products that modulate neuromediators for skin health and psychological benefits (Rizzi et al., 2021). The skin-brain axis enables bidirectional communication, with neuroactive ingredients like peptides and botanicals reducing stress-related skin issues (Martins et al., 2021). Clinical studies show 25-40% improvements in skin barrier and elasticity with neurocosmetic formulations (Ghelamghash, 2025b).

**1.3. Genomic Approaches in Personalized Cosmetic Design**

Genomics identifies SNPs influencing skin phenotypes, such as collagen degradation and oxidative stress (Papadopoulou et al., 2025). Personalized formulations target these polymorphisms, with AI integrating genomic data for customized products (Khmaladze et al., 2020). Direct-to-consumer genomic testing raises privacy concerns, requiring ethical guidelines (Ghelamghash, 2025c).

**1.4. Epigenetic Modulation for Anti-Aging and Skin Rejuvenation**

Epigenetics reveals how environmental factors modify gene expression, with "epigenetic age clocks" predicting biological skin age (Ghelamghash, 2025). Modulators like resveratrol reverse epigenetic markers, reducing skin aging by 10-20% in trials (Ghelamghash, 2025d). Senolytic peptides clear senescent cells, improving skin vitality (Saeedi et al., 2019).

**1.5. Technological Innovations and Integration**

AI and multi-omics platforms synthesize GME data for hyper-personalized formulations (Ghelamghash & Hamayeli, 2025). Nanoencapsulation enhances delivery, with clinical
evidence showing 30–50% efficacy improvements (Rizzi et al., 2021). These technologies
accelerate innovation but require regulatory oversight (Ghelamghash, 2025e).

**1.6. Ethical and Regulatory Challenges**

Ethical issues include data privacy in genomic testing and sourcing under the Nagoya Protocol (NIEHS, 2025). Regulatory frameworks must ensure claims substantiation, with FDA and EU guidelines addressing safety (FDA, 2025). Ethical sourcing and transparency are critical for sustainable development (Ghelamghash, 2025c).

**1.7. Objectives of the Literature Review**

This review (2014–2025) aims to:

* Analyze molecular mechanisms of neurocosmetics, genomics, and epigenetics in cosmetic design.

• Examine clinical applications and efficacy.

* Evaluate technological innovations.

- Assess ethical and regulatory challenges.

* Identify research gaps and propose future directions.

2. Methodology

During the preparation of this manuscript, the author used Gemini (https://gemini.google.com/) and Grok (https://grok.com/) to collect information and write articles. After using this tool/service, the author physically reviewed and edited the content as needed and takes full responsibility for the content of the publication.

**2.1. Search Strategy and Databases**

A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses published between 2014 and 2025. Keywords included "neurocosmetics," "genomics in cosmetics," "epigenetics in skincare," "personalized cosmetic design," "skin-brain axis," and "epigenetic modulators," combined using Boolean operators (e.g., "neurocosmetics AND genomics"). Searches were refined iteratively to ensure relevance.
## 2.2. Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

**Inclusion Criteria:**

* Peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, or authoritative reports.

* Published in English, 2014–2025, with seminal older works included if foundational.

* Focused on molecular mechanisms, clinical applications, technological innovations, or ethical issues in neurocosmetics, genomics, and epigenetics.

* Provided empirical or qualitative insights on personalized cosmetic design.

**Exclusion Criteria:**

* Non-peer-reviewed sources (e.g., blogs, commercial websites) unless contextually justified.

* Case reports or commentaries unless uniquely relevant.

* Studies not addressing neurocosmetics, genomics, epigenetics, or cosmetic applications.

## 2.3. Data Extraction and Synthesis Approach

Data were extracted on study design, molecular mechanisms, clinical outcomes, technological methods, and ethical considerations. Thematic synthesis identified trends in genomic and epigenetic approaches. Quantitative data were tabulated for efficacy comparisons, and qualitative insights were narratively integrated. Critical appraisal ensured reliability, addressing biases and limitations.

# 3. Results

## 3.1. Neurocosmetics: Mechanisms and Applications

Neurocosmetics targets the skin-brain axis, modulating neuromediators like β-endorphins and substance P for skin health and emotional benefits (Rizzi et al., 2021). Ingredients like *Vitex agnus-castus* stimulate β-endorphins, reducing stress-related skin issues (Martins et al., 2021). Clinical trials show 20–30% wrinkle reduction with neuroactive peptides (Rajagopal et al., 2025). Applications include anti-aging creams and barrier-enhancing serums (Ghelamghash & Hamayeli, 2025).
## 3.2. Genomic Approaches in Cosmetic Product Design

Genomics identifies SNPs influencing skin traits, such as collagen breakdown (Papadopoulou et al., 2025). Personalized formulations target these polymorphisms, with AI integrating genomic data for customized products (Khmaladze et al., 2020). Direct-to-consumer testing enables tailored skincare, but privacy concerns persist (Ghelamghash, 2025a). Clinical evidence shows 15-25% improvement in elasticity with genomic-targeted ingredients (Lee & Rhee, 2015).

## 3.3. Epigenetic Modulation for Skin Rejuvenation

Epigenetics reveals how lifestyle factors modify gene expression, with modulators like resveratrol reversing methylation patterns (Ghelamghash, 2025). Epigenetic age clocks predict biological skin age, guiding senolytic peptides for rejuvenation (Saeedi et al., 2019). Trials show 10-20% reduction in aging markers with epigenetic modulators (Pain et al., 2013). Applications include anti-aging serums and lotions (Ghelamghash, 2025b).

## 3.4. Technological Innovations in Personalized Neurocosmetics

AI and multi-omics platforms synthesize GME data for hyper-personalized formulations (Ghelamghash & Hamayeli, 2025). Nanoencapsulation enhances delivery, with 30-50% efficacy improvements in clinical trials (Rizzi et al., 2021). Chronocosmetics and bioelectronic therapies represent future trends (Rajagopal et al., 2025).

## 3.5. Ethical and Regulatory Considerations

Ethical challenges include data privacy in genomic testing, with 80% consumer concern (NIEHS, 2025). Regulatory frameworks like FDA guidelines ensure claims substantiation (FDA, 2025). The Nagoya Protocol mandates ethical sourcing, with compliance essential for sustainable innovation (Ghelamghash, 2025c).

## 3.6. Research Gaps and Future Directions

Limited longitudinal studies on epigenetic modulators exist, with variability in trial outcomes (Ghelamghash, 2025d). Future research should focus on AI-driven personalization and
microbiome interactions (Khmaladze et al., 2020). Interdisciplinary trials are needed to substantiate claims (Ghelamghash, 2025e).

<table><caption>**Table 1: Summary of Key Findings in Personalized Neurocosmetics**</caption><thead><tr><td>Category</td><td>Key Mechanism/Application</td><td>Clinical Outcomes</td><td>Key Ingredients/Technologies</td><td>Source</td></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Neurocosmetics</td><td>Modulates skin-brain axis via neuromediators (e.g., β-endorphins, substance P)</td><td>20–30% wrinkle reduction, improved well-being</td><td>Vitex agnus-castus, peptides</td><td>Rizzi et al., 2021; Martins et al., 2021</td></tr><tr><td>Genomic Approaches</td><td>Targets SNPs for collagen synthesis, oxidative stress</td><td>15–25% improvement in elasticity</td><td>AI-driven formulations</td><td>Papadopoulos et al., 2025; Khmaladze et al., 2020</td></tr><tr><td>Epigenetic Modulation</td><td>Reverses methylation patterns, predicts biological skin age</td><td>5–10 years reduction in skin age</td><td>Resveratrol, senolytic peptides</td><td>Ghelamghash, 2025; Saeedi et al., 2019</td></tr><tr><td>Technological Innovations</td><td>Integrates GME data, enhances delivery via nanoencapsulation</td><td>30–50% efficacy improvement</td><td>AI, multi-omics, microneedles</td><td>Ghelamghash & Hamayeli, 2025; Rizzi et al., 2021</td></tr><tr><td>Ethical/Regulatory Considerations</td><td>Addresses data privacy, Nagoya Protocol compliance</td><td>80% consumer concern on privacy</td><td>Regulatory frameworks</td><td>NIEHS, 2025; Ghelamghash, 2025c</td></tr></tbody></table>

## 4. Discussion
The convergence of neurocosmetics, genomics, and epigenetics marks a transformative shift in cosmetic science, moving from generic formulations to hyper-personalized solutions that address individual molecular and psychological needs (Rajagopal et al., 2025). Neurocosmetics leverages the skin-brain axis to modulate neuromediators like β-endorphins and substance P, yielding both physical and emotional benefits. Clinical trials demonstrate that neuroactive ingredients, such as *Vitex agnus-castus* and *Rhodiola rosea*, achieve 20-30% reductions in wrinkle depth and enhance emotional well-being by reducing stress-related skin inflammation (Martins et al., 2021; Rizzi et al., 2021). This bidirectional communication underscores the potential of neurocosmetics to bridge dermatology and psychology, addressing conditions like stress-induced acne or eczema, which affect 30-40% of cosmetic users (Ghelamghash & Hamayeli, 2025). The psychological impact is particularly significant, as 65% of consumers report improved mood and self-esteem with neurocosmetic products, highlighting their role in holistic well-being (Dayan & Maltman, 2023).

Genomic approaches further enhance personalization by identifying single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that influence skin phenotypes, such as collagen degradation or oxidative stress susceptibility (Papadopoulou et al., 2025). For instance, SNPs in the *COL1A1* gene, linked to collagen synthesis, enable tailored formulations that improve skin elasticity by 15-25% in clinical trials (Lee & Rhee, 2015). Artificial intelligence (AI) plays a pivotal role in synthesizing genomic data with microbiome and exposome factors, creating hyper-customized products that outperform traditional cosmetics by 20-30% in efficacy (Khmaladze et al., 2020). However, direct-to-consumer genomic testing raises significant privacy concerns, with 80% of users expressing unease about data security (NIEHS, 2025). Ethical frameworks, such as those proposed by Ghelamghash (2025c), emphasize transparent data handling and informed consent, aligning with global standards like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Epigenetics introduces a dynamic dimension, revealing how environmental factors, such as UV exposure or diet, reversibly modify gene expression through mechanisms like DNA methylation and histone acetylation (Ghelamghash, 2025). Epigenetic age clocks, which predict biological skin age with 95% accuracy, guide the use of modulators like resveratrol and senolytic peptides, reducing aging markers by 5-10 years in controlled studies (Saeedi et al., 2019; Pain et al., 2013). These modulators target senescent cells, improving skin vitality by 10-20%, particularly in anti-aging serums (Ghelamghash, 2025b). The integration of
epigenetics with neurocosmetics offers a novel approach, as stress-related epigenetic changes
can exacerbate skin aging, affecting 40% of individuals in high-stress environments (Zucchi &
Honigman, 2025).

Technological innovations, including AI-driven multi-omics platforms and advanced delivery
systems like nanoencapsulation, are revolutionizing product development (Ghelamghash &
Hamayeli, 2025). Nanoencapsulation enhances ingredient bioavailability, achieving 30–50%
improvements in clinical outcomes, such as hydration and elasticity (Rizzi et al., 2021).
Emerging technologies, such as chronocosmetics and bioelectronic therapies, align product
efficacy with circadian rhythms, offering up to 25% better results in time-specific applications
(Rajagopal et al., 2025). However, these advancements raise scalability challenges, as high-
cost technologies may limit access for low-income consumers, exacerbating health disparities
(Ghelamghash, 2025e).

Ethical and regulatory challenges remain critical barriers to widespread adoption. The Nagoya
Protocol mandates ethical sourcing of bioresources, with non-compliance risking legal
repercussions in 30% of cosmetic firms (Ghelamghash, 2025c). Data privacy concerns, coupled
with the need for robust claims substantiation, necessitate stringent regulatory oversight, as
outlined by FDA and EU guidelines (FDA, 2025). Cultural considerations also play a role, as
beauty standards vary across regions, influencing product acceptance. For example, Asian
markets prioritize skin brightening, while Western markets emphasize anti-aging, requiring
culturally tailored formulations (Lee & Rhee, 2015). Gender dynamics further complicate
personalization, with women comprising 70% of cosmetic consumers, yet male-specific
products are underrepresented despite growing demand (Ghelamghash, 2025b).

Research gaps include limited longitudinal data on epigenetic modulators and variability in
clinical outcomes, with only 20% of studies extending beyond 12 months (Ghelamghash,
2025d). Future research should prioritize interdisciplinary trials integrating microbiome
interactions and AI-driven personalization, as well as culturally diverse studies to address
global consumer needs (Khmaladze et al., 2020). Ethical social media marketing and
transparent advertising, as advocated by Premium Doctors® (Ghelamghash, 2025c), are
essential to build consumer trust and ensure equitable access to personalized neurocosmetics.

**5. Conclusion**
Personalized neurocosmetics integrate neurocosmetics, genomics, and epigenetics for science-
driven skincare, with clinical evidence showing significant improvements in skin health and
well-being (Rizzi et al., 2021). While promising, ethical and regulatory challenges must be
addressed to ensure safety and equity (Ghelamghash, 2025d). Future research should prioritize
longitudinal studies and technological advancements for sustainable innovation.

Acknowledgements

This research was funded by the https://premiumdoctors.org/ Research and Development Group in California.

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