La Mer: New Findings on Skin Inflammation

La Mer’s lead scientist, Jaime Emmetsberger, recently presented her latest findings on the complex relationship between the skin's sensory neurons and the regulation of neurocutaneous inflammatory signals through endocannabinoid pathways. Emmetsberger is a neuroscientist and fellow at The Estee Lauder Companies.

These new findings help to provide a greater understanding of the communication between the skin and sensory neurons, as well as how the body naturally responds to inflammation.

The research was presented at Neuroscience 2024 in Chicago, which took place October 5–9, 2024.

Emmetsberger’s research highlights the role sensory neurons play in cutaneous inflammation by releasing neuropeptides and cytokines, which can influence the skin’s stress response.

Her study explores the bidirectional communication between skin cells and sensory neurons, uncovering feedback mechanisms that may intensify inflammation. This crosstalk is partly regulated by the endocannabinoid system, a key factor in maintaining skin homeostasis, which offers new insights into inflammation in skin.

By unraveling the mechanisms that govern neurocutaneous communication to balance skin, this research lays the groundwork for inspiring the development of precise and effective skin care innovation, the researcher argues.

"Presenting at Neuroscience 2024 is a significant milestone in my career," says Emmetsberger. "It’s a privilege to share research that connects skin science with neuroscience. The skin, often called the 'third brain,' not only recalls past immune responses, especially those related to emotional stress, but also functions with a level of independent intelligence comparable to the central nervous system. To truly understand skin homeostasis, it's essential to consider how the nervous system contributes to cellular communication within the skin."