Aminobutyric Acid (Gaba)

Aminobutyric Acid (Gaba) is a non-protein amino acid that is naturally found in the human body.

From KimiKa, LLC, a manufacturer of Aminobutyric Acid (Gaba):

“In cosmetics, GABA is primarily utilized for its skin-soothing and calming properties. It acts as a neurotransmitter inhibitor, reducing muscle contractions and providing a temporary smoothing effect on the skin. GABA is often incorporated into skincare products aiming to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting a more relaxed and youthful complexion. There are GABA receptors on the skin surface. The inhibitory or excitability of GABA receptor controls the relaxation and tension of the expression muscles. GABA can quickly penetrate the skin and activate the GABA receptors, then the tense expression muscles are relaxed, the expression lines are stretched. It is also known to act as a wound healer. It is well-tolerated and compatible with various formulations, making it a beneficial ingredient for skincare applications.” (source)

Learn more about its use in commercial products and benefits with this article from Cosmetics & Toiletries.

Aminobutyric Acid

Crystalline white powder

0.05 – 0.3%, up to 1% (Lotion Crafter)

0.2 – 3.0 % (KimiKa, LLC)

Nothing noticeable

6–8

Water soluble

Aminobutyric Acid (Gaba) has lots of great anti-aging benefits, offering temporary skin smoothing, boosting collagen & hyaluronic acid synthesis, and helping the skin heal (source).

No, but it sure is neat!

Aminobutyric Acid (Gaba) only exists as a refined product.

The skin-smoothing, muscle relaxing effect is quite unique, it’s pretty easy to work with, and the usage rate is fairly low.

It’s pretty expensive and not very widely available.

I can’t think of anything that offers the same benefits.

Include Aminobutyric Acid (Gaba) in the water phase; the cool down phase is preferred. A final product pH of 5.0 – 7.0 is recommended by KimiKa, LLC.

Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, aminobutyric Acid (Gaba) should last 4 years from the date of manufacture.

KimiKa, LLC lists the following haircare applications for Aminobutyric Acid (Gaba): Detangling, Stress Reduction, Scalp Health, and Split-End Repair.

2–5g (0.06–0.18oz)

Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier. Mine is from Lotion Crafter.