Gamma Aminobutyric Acid

GABA represents an abbreviation for Gamma Aminobutyric Acid, which is an amino acid non-proteinogenic. In aesthetic, GABA is used due to its topical muscle-relaxing action and anti-aging. It is believed to act by transiently relaxing the skin, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, particularly in products for which a short-term "lifting" or "smoothing" effect is claimed.
Applied to the skin, GABA does not deeply penetrate, except that it acts on the surface to provide an immediate, though temporary, tightening effect. It is for this action that it finds most appeal in formulations pursued for rapid wrinkle reduction or in "instant effect" skincare treatments. Other research has suggested that GABA may be involved in the skin barrier repair process through its interaction with collagen-producing cells, though full efficacy and long-term benefits are not yet comprehended.
Typically, GABA would be used in low concentrations to avoid irritation and generally happens to be well-tolerated by most skin types. It can be combined with other antiaging actives such as peptides and hyaluronic acid to enhance the effect of it and further contribute to a more plump, smooth skin appearance.