Amino acid (GABA analogue), NMF component. Functional formulation ingredient with no standalone activity on the skin.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Inert formulation ingredient. Safe, no standalone activity.
Aminobutyric Acid (ABA) is an amino acid that does not belong to the 20 proteinogenic ones. Unlike γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), this is the α-isomer. In cosmetics it is marketed as a 'GABA analogue' and NMF component. Mechanism. Humectant – binds water in the stratum corneum through free hydroxyl and amino groups. No meaningful standalone activity on skin. The marketing tie to GABA as a calming neurotransmitter has no scientific basis – brain GABA works through receptors that the epidermis does not have. Where applied. Moisturizing serums and creams (0.1–1%), masks, K-beauty 'relax' lines marketed for 'tired skin'. Evidence base. No direct RCTs. Marketing rests on in vitro antioxidant activity and a theoretical link to GABA. Safety. CIR has not assessed it individually. Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic. Topical systemic absorption is minimal. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. No direct data. As a precaution, in pregnancy use amino acids with a better-studied profile (alanine, serine, glycine). Functional role. A weak humectant and marketing NMF component.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Aminobutyric Acid is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Amino acid (GABA analogue), NMF component.
The INCI name is Aminobutyric Acid. It may also appear as: Аминомасляная кислота, GABA.
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