THE SCIENCE OF EMOTIONAL SKINCARE

XOMD® and the Rise of the Moodceutical™ Movement

As scientific understanding of the link between physical appearance and emotional well-being continues to evolve, a groundbreaking category in skincare has emerged—one that addresses not only what we see in the mirror, but also how we feel in our relationships and about ourselves,

Leading this new frontier is XOMD®, a clinically validated skincare line that introduces the concept of the Moodceutical™: topical formulations designed to elevate mood, enhance confidence, and foster emotional connection—all through the skin.

XOMD® is the result of decades of expertise at lives at the intersection of skincare and emotional wellbeing. Founded by Dr. Steven Dayan, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, professor at the University of Illinois and adjunct professor at DePaul University, and Dr. Sabrina Fabi, a San Diego-based board-certified dermatologist, volunteer assistant clinical professor at UCSD and clinical researcher involved in over 200 clinical studies,  the brand targets what the founders call the psycho-social-dermal axis—a feedback loop between skin appearance, emotional state, and social connection.

“Aesthetics should be less about how you look—and more about how you feel,” says Dr. Dayan. “Most of our patients don’t come in asking for symmetry or textbook beauty. They want to feel confident, connected, and like themselves, just better.”

At the heart of XOMD® is its patent-pending OX Factor™, a botanical complex formulated to mimic the effects of oxytocin, which is known as the body’s natural “love hormone.” Oxytocin plays a well-documented role in emotional bonding, trust, and intimacy—but emerging research has also linked it to skin health, including reduced inflammation, improved hydration, and a visibly radiant glow.

“Oxytocin receptors exist in the skin,” explains Dr. Fabi. “When stimulated, they can help calm the skin, reduce redness, and trigger that lit-from-within luminosity we often associate with feeling in love or emotionally grounded.”

Pictured: Dr. Sabrina Fabi

Unlike traditional skincare lines that focus solely on cellular turnover or collagen production, XOMD® was developed to address both the biological and emotional components of skin health. And the results are as compelling as the science behind them.

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized crossover trial—a gold standard in clinical testing—XOMD® users reported significant improvements in both dermal and psychosocial metrics after just eight weeks:

• 86% experienced increased self-confidence
• 90% greater satisfaction in intimate relationship categories tested
• 100% made stronger first impressions
• On average, participants appeared three years younger

These findings suggest that XOMD® is doing more than transforming skin—it’s redefining how people see themselves, engage with others, and show up in the world.

The formulation behind the brand is built around three key components:

• Phospholipids, which strengthen the skin’s barrier and reduce inflammation
• A jasmine-derived botanical, known to stimulate skin mechanoreceptors and promote oxytocin-like responses
• Carob-derived isobutyric acid, a compound with documented pheromonal properties that enhance social chemistry and attraction

Together, these ingredients represent a deliberate shift in focus—from superficial aesthetics to deeper, measurable emotional outcomes.

“We coined the term Moodceutical™ to reflect what we believe is the next evolution in skincare,” says Dr. Dayan. “It’s not just about improving appearance; it’s about creating a product that supports self-worth, perceived attractiveness, and authentic human connection.”

The idea behind XOMD® began as a personal observation. During her pregnancy, Dr. Fabi noticed a distinct glow in her skin—an experience that sparked curiosity. Together with her partner in life and business, she and Dr. Dayan began exploring the role oxytocin might be playing, both physiologically and visually. That insight, coupled with Dr. Dayan’s two decades of research into beauty psychology and attraction, laid the foundation for what would become a multiyear journey of product development and clinical testing.

Designed for women and men with normal to sensitive skin, XOMD® is intended to be used morning and night as part of a consistent skincare ritual. According to Dr. Fabi, most users report visible changes—and subtle emotional shifts—within two to four weeks.

It’s important to note that while inspired by oxytocin, XOMD® products do not contain hormones and are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Instead, the line serves as a science-driven enhancement to self-care routines—one that acknowledges the deeply personal and emotional relationship we have with our appearance.

“This is about starting with skincare,” says Dr. Dayan, “but ending with a more confident, connected version of yourself.”

As the warmer months bring a season of social energy—weddings, vacations, date nights, and renewed personal goals—XOMD® offers a timely new approach to self-presentation. One rooted not just in cosmetics, but in chemistry.

Beauty, redefined—not just by the mirror, but by the mind.

For more information about the science behind XOMD® and Moodceuticals™, consult your licensed skincare professional.

My Experience:

As someone who’s spent years exploring skincare—from tried-and-true classics to the latest innovations—I’m always on the lookout for products that don’t just promise surface results but offer something deeper. When I discovered XOMD®, I was intrigued by the concept of a Moodceutical™—a skincare line designed not only to improve skin but also to uplift mood, boost confidence, and even enhance connection with others. It sounded almost too good to be true, but after incorporating XOMD® into my daily routine, I’m genuinely convinced this is something special.

The first thing that stood out to me is the thoughtful science behind the formula. Knowing it’s built around the patent-pending OX Factor™, a botanical blend that mimics oxytocin—the “feel-good hormone”—gave me real confidence in what I was putting on my skin. The ingredients like jasmine derivatives and carob extract aren’t just buzzwords; they’re carefully selected to nurture the skin while subtly influencing emotional well-being. It’s rare to find skincare that acknowledges how interconnected our skin health and mood really are.

After about two weeks of consistent use, I started noticing more than just a smoother complexion or better hydration. There was a subtle but unmistakable glow—like my skin was radiating from within—and, honestly, my overall mindset felt lighter. I caught myself smiling more, feeling more confident in social situations, and even sensing a stronger sense of ease when meeting new people. That emotional lift, combined with visible improvements like reduced redness and a more even tone, made the experience feel holistic rather than just cosmetic.

What I appreciate most about XOMD® is that it encourages a new way to think about self-care. It’s not just about looking good but about feeling good, too—and that’s a powerful combination. If you’re someone who wants your skincare to do more than sit on your vanity, but to actively support your confidence and connection, I truly recommend giving XOMD® a try. It’s more than a product—it’s a ritual that invites you to glow inside and out.