Neuroendocrine Pathways in Skin Health and Homeostasis: A Systematic Review

April 2026 in “ Journal of Dermatology Research ”

Elizabeth Kream, Rachel Shireen Golpanian, Anna‐Marie Hosking, Monica Boen, Sabrina G. Fabi

neuropeptide neurotransmitter melatonin substance P oxytocin neurohormonal signaling anti-inflammatory psychodermatologic

From the encyclopedia

Melatonin →

hormone commonly taken for sleep aid has some topical benefits for hair

Oxytocin →

Studysummary This systematic review found that interventions targeting neuropeptides and neurotransmitters, particularly melatonin, substance P, and oxytocin, show consistent evidence for anti-inflammatory, reparative, and psychodermatologic benefits, highlighting the potential of neurohormonal signaling as a therapeutic target in dermatology.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

This systematic review highlights the emerging role of the skin as a neuroendocrine organ and its communication with the nervous system, emphasizing the potential of neuropeptide- and neurotransmitter-based interventions in dermatology. Analyzing 68 studies, primarily preclinical with some randomized controlled trials, the review identifies melatonin, substance P modulation, and oxytocin as key neuroendocrine mediators with consistent evidence supporting their anti-inflammatory, reparative, and psychodermatologic benefits. These findings suggest that neurohormonal signaling could be a promising therapeutic target for both skin disease management and aesthetic applications.

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Research cited in this study

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research Stress-Induced Interaction of Skin Immune Cells, Hormones, and Neurotransmitters

88 citations , May 2020 in “Clinical therapeutics”

This review discusses the role of stress mediators in skin diseases and reports no new clinical results; the authors suggest further research in skin psychoneuroimmunology.

research Melatonin: A Cutaneous Perspective on Its Production, Metabolism, and Functions

185 citations , February 2018 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology”

This review discusses melatonin's potential in dermatology, highlighting its antioxidative, immunomodulatory, and DNA repair properties, but reports no new clinical results.

research Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone and the Skin

137 citations , January 2006 in “Frontiers in bioscience”

This review discusses the role of corticotropin-releasing hormone in human skin, focusing on its regulation, receptors, and functions, and highlights parallels with the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis; it reports no new research findings.