Skin on Drugs: Psychotropic Compounds in Cutaneous Biology
International Journal of Molecular Sciences June 26, 2026 M. Fernández‐guarino, Nicolás Yagüe-septién, Laura Marín-ochoa et al.
Several psychoactive compounds produce biological effects on the skin through neurochemical and immune pathways. Topical cannabinoids like THC show anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and anti-aging properties. The antidepressant fluoxetine regulates pro-inflammatory cytokines in keratinocytes, promotes wound healing and cell regeneration, and may benefit allergic skin conditions. Psychedelics that activate serotonin receptors (5-HTR) can influence cellular aging and immune modulation; 5-HT receptor agonists prevent UV-induced photocarcinogenesis, and psilocybin reduces aging markers in human fibroblasts. Psilocin may alleviate acute itch via the kynurenine pathway. These findings bridge neuropharmacology and dermatology for new therapeutic strategies.