the science of glow: why skin rituals are the secret to radiant skin

glow starts beyond the surface

Radiant skin is often treated as a surface goal — something to achieve through ingredients alone. But the reality is more complex. True glow is influenced by how skin functions, how it’s treated, and even how the body feels.

At This Works, bodycare is designed to work beyond the skin, intentionally activating the brain–body connection. By sending calming, positive signals from the body back to the brain, we help regulate the nervous system and reduce everyday stress responses — creating the conditions for healthier-looking, more radiant skin.

Because what the brain experiences can be read on our skin.

a note from our CEO

As Dr Anna Persaud explains:

“From our research with Professor Badre and my own lived experience, I’ve become convinced that we can influence how our mind behaves and experiences the world by using products that send the right sensory cues to the brain through touch, texture, and aroma. This is why we’re launching bodycare that moves the mind — for your ‘f*ck it era’: to shed expectations, choose comfort and freedom, and do what we want, when we want.”

This philosophy sits at the heart of Skin Deep — a collection designed not just to care for skin, but to influence how you feel in it.

what creates truly radiant skin

Glow is often mistaken for shine, but true radiance comes from skin that is well-functioning and supported.
When the skin barrier is strong, hydration is maintained and texture is smooth, light reflects more evenly across the surface. This is where nutrient-rich oils play a vital role.
The skin deep dry leg oil is formulated with 19 botanical oils chosen for their skin affinity and high bioavailability. These oils help reinforce the skin’s lipid barrier, improve hydration and support a smoother, more even-looking surface over time — all key contributors to a natural, healthy glow.

why ritual matters as much as formula

Application is not just functional — it’s transformative.

The act of massaging oil into the skin, feeling texture, noticing scent — these are sensory cues that communicate directly with the nervous system. This type of slow, intentional contact (known as affective touch) can help the body shift into a more relaxed, regulated state.

Products like the skin deep dry leg oil and our skin deep roll-on are designed to turn everyday application into a moment of pause. The roll-on makes this ritual portable — delivering hydration and radiance exactly where you need it, whenever you need it.

botanical oils and the biology of glow

The Skin Deep formulations combine high-grade essential oils with cold-pressed plant oils to deliver both immediate and long-term benefits.

Rich in fatty acids and essential lipids, these oils penetrate the skin to nourish and support its structure. Over time, this helps improve texture, enhance resilience and contribute to a more luminous appearance.

The result is skin that feels soft, looks smooth, and reflects light naturally — not artificially.

from radiance to confidence

As we bare more skin, body awareness increases — and so too can self-consciousness. But bodycare has the power to shift that experience.

When skin looks radiant and feels nourished, perception changes. Radiance becomes more than visual — it becomes emotional.

The skin deep shimmer serum builds on this by veiling skin in golden light, enhancing radiance and creating a luminous, light-catching finish that feels as good as it looks.

glow as a state, not just a look

When the body experiences comfort, safety and ease, the nervous system responds. It softens, slows down and allows the skin to function more optimally.

This is when glow becomes instinctive.

Skin appears smoother. Texture looks refined. Radiance is enhanced.

And most importantly, you feel more comfortable — and more confident — in your own skin.

redefining everyday bodycare

Bodycare is no longer just about hydration. It’s about creating rituals that support both skin and state of mind.

From the indulgent nourishment of skin deep dry leg oil, to the targeted, on-the-go application of the skin deep roll-on, to the luminous finish of the skin deep shimmer serum, this is a collection designed to be experienced.

Because glow isn’t just something you see.

It’s something you feel.