Evaluation of skin characteristic changes in neuromodulatory fragrance confirmed using electroencephalography

Fragrances cause brainwave modulations, consequently affecting skin health; however, the scientific explorations of these fragrance effects are lacking. This study aimed to investigate whether neuromodulatory fragrances, identified through electroencephalography (EEG), enhance sleep quality and consequently improve physiological skin parameters. Furthermore, we explored the potential of fragrance-induced neural modulation as a novel strategy for cosmetic formulations.

Thirty healthy adults were exposed to four fragrances, and their EEG responses were analysed to assess emotional valence and arousal. The powdery scent (PD53), which produced the strongest alpha wave activity, and the rose scent (RS52), which induced the weakest response, were formulated into creams. An unscented cream served as the control. Participants applied the test creams every night for 4 weeks, and skin parameters were measured before and after the treatment.

Participants in the PD53 group exhibited significantly higher sleep quality scores than those in the unscented control group, along with an increased skin elasticity and decreased transepidermal water loss, roughness, desquamation index, yellowness, sebum production and pore area (p < 0.05). No significant intergroup differences were observed in terms of hydration, wrinkles, brightness or hyperpigmentation.

Alpha wave activation induced by neuromodulatory fragrances positively influences specific skin properties by improving sleep quality. This approach may represent a novel functional strategy for developing cosmetic formulations aimed at enhancing skin health.