GAMMA-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)

* A new ingredient in skin creams that is supposed to simulate Botox injections

* Read TIA’s article on Products with Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid

Functions:

Cosmetic companies use GABA in products claiming to relax muscles topically. However, GABA has not been proven to relax muscles and reduce the appearance of wrinkles or expression lines when applied topically. Cosmetic companies are hoping consumers will associate the topical application of products containing GABA with its internal function of controlling the manner in which nerve impulses fire, although this is not a proven effect (Source).

There is no solid research proving GABA works in this manner when applied topically, although there is a study done by cosmetic company Shiseido and published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology on its role on the dermis. This component actually requires a reaction between it and many other chemicals to create a plumping, tightening effect.

Safety Measures/Side Effects:

Although there is the fear of GABA working too well and relaxing muscles to a larger extent than desired, it is otherwise considered safe for use.

Recommended Products w/ GAMMA-Aminobutyric Acid:

Products that contain GABA