* An ingredient in skin creams that is supposed to simulate Botox injections, and also acts as a wound healer

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

Functions:

Cosmetic companies use GABA in products claiming to relax muscles topically. It is an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. In humans it is also responsible for muscle tone.

Taken orally GABA is used for relieving anxiety, improving mood, reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and treating attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is also used for promoting lean muscle growth (according to WebMD). Studies have shown that GABA can boost the immune system (source)

Alhough cosmetic companies use GABA in products claiming to relax muscles topically, there is evidence that its topical application can go far beyond a “Botox-like” effect.  Research into the topical application of aminobutyric acid, suggests that it can improve skin barrier recovery (source). A 2007 study on rats concluded that “the healing effect of GABA was remarkable at the early stage of wound healing, which resulted in significant reduction of the whole healing period.”

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