Skip to content

Neuroglow Ingredients: Demystifying the Formulas Behind the Name

4 min read

While the name 'Neuroglow' is often associated with a cosmetic ingredient, a surprising number of products share this moniker, including prescriptions for nerve pain. This article breaks down the distinct ingredients in these different products to help you understand what's actually in Neuroglow, depending on the context.

Quick Summary

This piece explores the various formulations sold under the 'Neuroglow' brand, differentiating between the plant-derived skincare active and the medicinal tablets. We analyze the components of each, from the cosmetic ingredient made from Persicaria tinctoria to the combination of Gabapentin and Methylcobalamin found in some medications.

Key Points

  • Skincare Active: Neuroglow™ from Givaudan is a botanical extract from Persicaria tinctoria (indigo plant) used in cosmetics to boost skin glow and mood.

  • Prescription Medication: Neuroglow GB contains the drugs Gabapentin and Methylcobalamin, prescribed for neuropathic pain and nerve damage.

  • Different Formulas: The name 'Neuroglow' is not universal and can refer to a skincare active, a medicinal tablet, or other supplements with different ingredient lists.

  • Distinct Purposes: The skincare active is for topical use to promote a healthy glow, while the medication is for internal use to relieve chronic nerve pain.

  • Always Check Labels: Due to the brand name being used for multiple products, it is essential to read product labels carefully to confirm the specific ingredients.

  • Other Formulations: Some variations may contain a mix of B vitamins (B1, B6, B9, B12) and Alpha Lipoic Acid for general nerve health and nutritional deficiencies.

In This Article

What Ingredients Are in Neuroglow? A Detailed Look at Different Products

The term "Neuroglow" does not refer to a single product or formula. Instead, it is a brand name used for several distinct offerings, ranging from a cosmetic active ingredient to a prescribed medication. The ingredients in each product vary significantly depending on its purpose. It is crucial to identify which specific product is being referred to to understand its composition and function.

The Neuroglow™ Skincare Active Ingredient

Developed by the company Givaudan, the cosmetic active ingredient branded as Neuroglow™ is derived from the Persicaria tinctoria, or indigo plant, through a process called green fractionation. Sourced from Provence, this innovative botanical is designed to mimic some of the positive effects of sun exposure on the skin and mood.

Key Ingredients and Actions:

  • Polygonum Tinctorium Leaf/Stem Extract: The core botanical extract that is responsible for the ingredient's effects.
  • Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil: Often included to provide nourishing and protective properties.
  • Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract: Added for its antioxidant and skin-soothing benefits.

How the Skincare Active Works: The active ingredient is said to boost the production of "well-being molecules" like beta-endorphin and oxytocin, providing a "good mood" effect. It also stimulates melanin production, which provides a natural-looking glow and can prepare the skin for sun exposure, according to the manufacturer.

The Neuroglow GB and Related Medications

In a different context, products named Neuroglow GB or similar are prescription medications used to treat neuropathic pain. The composition of these tablets is unrelated to the skincare ingredient and is designed for internal, medicinal use.

Key Ingredients:

  • Gabapentin: An alpha 2 delta ligand that works by modulating calcium channel activity in nerve cells, thereby decreasing the sensation of pain.
  • Methylcobalamin: A form of vitamin B12 that is essential for the production of myelin, a substance that protects and repairs nerve fibers.

Common Uses: This combination is prescribed for chronic pain resulting from conditions such as diabetes, shingles, or spinal cord injuries. It is important to note that this is a medicinal product and should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Comparison: Skincare Active vs. Medicinal Tablet

Feature Neuroglow™ (Skincare Active) Neuroglow GB (Medicinal Tablet)
Primary Purpose Mimics sun's positive effects, provides a healthy skin glow, and uplifts mood. Treats neuropathic pain caused by nerve damage.
Core Ingredients Polygonum Tinctorium (Indigo Plant) extract, often combined with seed oils. Gabapentin and Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12).
Mechanism Boosts melanin and well-being molecules via a botanical active. Modulates nerve cell activity and supports nerve repair.
Application Topical, used in body and facial care products. Oral tablet, taken with or without food.
Side Effects Typically minimal with a vegan, natural ingredient base. Potential side effects include dizziness, sleepiness, fatigue, and depression.

Other Neuroglow Formulations

Besides the main examples, other products may use the name Neuroglow with different ingredients. For instance, some formulations in certain regions might include a blend of B vitamins and other antioxidants, marketed as dietary supplements for nerve health. These often contain:

  • Alpha Lipoic Acid: A potent antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress and supports proper blood supply to nerve cells.
  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): Aids in breaking down sugars and supports heart and nerve cell function.
  • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Crucial for red blood cell production and proper nerve function.
  • Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid): Essential for red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis.

It is imperative to read the product label carefully to determine the specific ingredients in any product named Neuroglow and consult a professional before use.

Understanding the Active Ingredients

To better comprehend the impact of these various formulations, it's helpful to understand the role of some key ingredients.

Gabapentin and Methylcobalamin

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant that is widely used to manage nerve-related pain by calming overactive nerves. Methylcobalamin is a specific form of vitamin B12 that is particularly effective for treating nerve damage and supporting nerve cell function. The combination is a common treatment protocol for various types of neuropathy.

The Importance of Persicaria tinctoria

In the cosmetic realm, the use of Persicaria tinctoria extract represents a move toward neurocosmetics, an area that explores the connection between the skin and the nervous system. The extract's ability to trigger the release of mood-related molecules like beta-endorphins points to a holistic approach to skincare, where the product not only benefits the skin's appearance but also influences emotional well-being.

Conclusion

The question of "What ingredients are in Neuroglow?" does not have a single answer due to the different products and applications sharing this brand name. The most prominent versions are the Givaudan skincare active, which is a botanical extract from the indigo plant designed for a healthy glow and mood enhancement, and the Neuroglow GB medication, which combines Gabapentin and Methylcobalamin to treat neuropathic pain. Other supplemental versions exist with varying vitamin and antioxidant blends. Always verify the specific product and consult a healthcare provider or refer to product details for accurate information on its ingredients and intended use.

How to Determine Which Neuroglow is Which

  • Check the product context: Is it advertised in a beauty context for skin glow, or as a medication for nerve pain?
  • Read the label: Pharmaceutical products will list their active drug ingredients (e.g., Gabapentin), while cosmetic products will list INCI names (e.g., Polygonum Tinctorium extract).
  • Look for the brand developer: If it's a cosmetic ingredient, it might be associated with Givaudan Active Beauty. If it's a medication, it will be associated with a pharmaceutical manufacturer.

Understanding the distinction is key to safely and effectively using any product with the Neuroglow brand name.

Visit a medical authority website for more details on Gabapentin and Methylcobalamin to further understand their functions and precautions.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary difference lies in their purpose and composition. Neuroglow™ is a botanical ingredient derived from the indigo plant for cosmetic use, promoting skin glow and mood. Neuroglow GB is a prescription medication containing Gabapentin and Methylcobalamin for treating neuropathic pain.

Yes, Givaudan's Neuroglow™ is a 100% natural-origin and vegan-friendly cosmetic ingredient made from Persicaria tinctoria via green fractionation.

In Neuroglow GB, Gabapentin is used to decrease the sensation of pain by modulating calcium channel activity in the nerve cells, making it effective for treating neuropathic pain.

Methylcobalamin, a form of Vitamin B12, plays a crucial role in the production of myelin, the substance that protects nerve fibers and aids in the regeneration of damaged nerve cells.

No, the skincare active Neuroglow™ is for topical cosmetic application only and is not formulated to treat nerve pain. Conditions like neuropathic pain should be managed with prescription medication like Neuroglow GB, under medical supervision.

The ingredient is said to boost melanin production for a healthy glow and increase the skin's release of feel-good molecules like beta-endorphin, vitamin D, and oxytocin to uplift mood.

Yes, some products, particularly supplements in certain regions, may use the Neuroglow name. These often contain blends of B vitamins (B1, B6, B9, B12) and other supplements like Alpha Lipoic Acid for nutritional support.

References

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.