Active ingredient
GABA
INCIGamma-Aminobutyric Acid
Last reviewed by BIOSAR Scientific Team, PharmD, Cosmetic Chemistry, Pharmacy practice on .
What it is
GABA, gamma-aminobutyric acid, is an amino-acid neurotransmitter used topically in cosmetic formulations targeting the appearance of expression lines. Cosmetic claims focus on a transient muscle-relaxation effect at the skin surface; the molecule is a peripheral GABA-receptor ligand. Pairs broadly with most actives. No major conflicts.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Safe
Considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Topical cosmetic GABA is considered acceptable during pregnancy and lactation per Mother to Baby. Cosmetic-dose surface application produces negligible systemic exposure.
Mechanism in detail
What GABA does
Amino acid used in expression-line formulas. Contributes to a smoother appearance around dynamic zones.
Evidence
What the research says
- smootherVisibly calmer, smoother eye-area linesIn a 14-week trial, a topical serum with GABA plus peptides gave statistically significant improvement in eye lines and eye wrinkles, at rest and at full smile. It was well tolerated with no adverse events.Read the study →Draelos ZD, Kononov T, Fox T. An Open Label Clinical Trial of a Peptide Treatment Serum and Supporting Regimen Designed to Improve the Appearance of Aging Facial Skin. J Drugs Dermatol. 2016;15(9):1100-1106. PMID: 27602972
Where it helps
Concerns GABA addresses
Aging
The first time you notice it is rarely a wrinkle. It is a quality of light — the way your skin catches it differently in a morning mirror,…
Explore the concernSun Damage
Sun damage is the cumulative photoaging caused by ultraviolet radiation, presenting as solar lentigines, irregular pigmentation, fine…
Explore the concern
From the BIOSAR catalog
