Aminobutyric Acid
Amino acid (GABA analogue), NMF component. Functional formulation ingredient with no standalone activity on the skin.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Inert formulation ingredient. Safe, no standalone activity.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
About this ingredient
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.
Frequently asked questions
Is Aminobutyric Acid safe during pregnancy?
Aminobutyric Acid is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What is Aminobutyric Acid and what does it do in cosmetics?
Amino acid (GABA analogue), NMF component.
What's the INCI name for Aminobutyric Acid?
The INCI name is Aminobutyric Acid. It may also appear as: GABA.
See Aminobutyric Acid in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni 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.
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