• Home
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Natural Home
  • Recipes
  • Gardening
  • Essential Oils
  • Beauty
↑

All Natural Ideas

Natural Ideas, Products and Recipes for a Healthier Life

  • Natural Home
  • Recipes
  • Gardening
  • Essential Oils
  • Beauty
You are here: Home / Natural Beauty / DMAE: Is It The Fountain of Youth for Skin and Brain?

DMAE: Is It The Fountain of Youth for Skin and Brain?

This post may contain affiliate links. See our Full Disclosure

February 13, 2018 By Rachel Garduce

Dimethylaminoethanol, known as DMAE, is a natural substance that may contain anti-aging actions for both skin and cognition. But is it safe? And is there research to prove it works? 

Dimethylaminoethanol, known as DMAE, is a natural substance that may contain anti-aging actions for both skin and cognition. But is it safe? And is there research to prove it works? 

You’ve tried every skin supplement, cream, lotion, mask and treatment under the sun. Hyaluronic acid? Check. Oatmeal mask? Yup. Black seed oil? Been there done that. Almond facial scrub? You betcha.

But have you ever used a skin care remedy with DMAE? It’s an ingredient that’s perhaps more well known for mental acuity rather than beauty. But supplements for skin with it are becoming more popular in natural health circles.

What is this magical substance and does it really work? And what other benefits of are there?

The short answer: there is conflicting opinions about this supplement for skin.

If you do a search on this supplement, you might come across an article on the website of holistic health guru, Dr. Andrew Weil. Dr. Weil does not seem sold on it.

As for benefits of DMAE on skin, Dr. Weil concludes, “I’ve seen no evidence to support claims that (the supplement) in cream form removes age spots from skin.”

However, the article on Dr. Weil’s website is over a decade old. Newer research seems to support using the ingredient for beauty products. Albeit, the research is still limited.

Before reviewing some of the research on DMAE supplements for skin, let’s cover what exactly this ingredient is.

What is DMAE?

The acronym stands for dimethylaminoethanol which is a natural substance. There’s actually a small amount of it in your brain.

Omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish such as sardines and anchovies are relatively rich in DMAE. But don’t worry if you’re considering buying a skincare product with the ingredient.

You’re not going to be rubbing sardine and anchovy on your face. Rather, the ingredient in skin care products are made from fruit.

If you research, “what is dmae,” you’ll find that it’s an organic compound. It’s also a curing agent for resin. Another use is as an additive to paint removers.

But obviously, if you’re looking for a fountain of youth supplement, don’t rub paint remover on your face!

The reason why this supplement has become ubiquitous in skin care products is its low cost. In comparison to other antioxidant ingredients, it doesn’t need to be stabilized.

Because it’s a less expensive ingredient for topical beauty products, it makes it an attractive (excuse the pun) compound to use.

What are the benefits of DMAE?

There is some limited research suggesting it may benefit the brain. In fact, has been suggested to improve the effects of Alzheimer’s. Although as Dr. Weil hints, evidence for this is sketchy.

Actually, this small study doesn’t bode well for benefits of it on brain health. The study includes 27 patients with moderately severe or severe Alzheimer’s disease.

But of the 13 patients in the experimental group, six of them were withdrawn because of side effects, including drowsiness confusion and mild elevation of blood pressure.

Moreover, the researchers conclude in the study that “no significant benefit appear[s] from [DMAE] treatment.”

However, this 2009 study on rats shows it might be effective in reducing memory deficits in patients with cognitive impairment.

There’s even a study that shows DMAE might benefit mood. The researchers of the study conclude that a vitamin-mineral drug combination containing it induces a psychophysiological state of wellbeing.

This conclusion is corroborated by both mood analysis and electrical pattern of brain activity. The subjects in the study suffer from borderline emotional disturbance.

Dimethylaminoethanol, known as DMAE, is a natural substance that may contain anti-aging actions for both skin and cognition. But is it safe? And is there research to prove it works?

Research on DMAE for skin

But what do studies conclude about it for beauty? Is there enough evidence to support it?

There’s clearly enough anecdotal evidence such as testimonials on product pages and health websites.

However, as for the research, there is some support for DMAE.

Although, there are no long-term studies that provide unequivocal proof that it’s both safe and effective for its anti-aging effects on skin.

Nonetheless, let’s take a look at some of the supporting research.  

This analysis of several studies says that rats fed it had less of the formation of a pigment that leads to aging skin (lipofuscin).

Moreover, this supplement flushes this pigment from the body. The researchers also suggest it seems to limit other aging symptoms in brain and heart muscle.

The role of it in dermatology, says the researchers, owes to its potential anti-inflammatory effect.

As for the ability of it to improve skin firmness and facial muscle tone? That could be, the researchers theorize, because of the antioxidant activity.

Moreover, the researchers conclude, the small size of the molecule could be a positive factor to protect cellular targets against free radical damage.”

These conclusions are from 2012. Thus, it would be interesting to read what Dr. Weil’s take on this research would be.  

DMAE Side Effects

DMAE has its critics. For one, there’s doubts about there being enough scientific proof that shows it works. This still occurs, despite the evidence above.

Second, there appears to be concern about its safety. Specifically, one study shows that it causes harm to skin cells, at least in experimental rabbits.

Carolyn’s Fitness Facial, a skin care website, says that in the rabbit study, the critter’s cells swelled. Consequently, it appeared to be toxic to the skin cells. In fact, some skin cells died after 24 hours of exposure.

However, the reason that this supplement appears in this study to be harmful might have more to do with its concentration. This at least is Carolyn’s theory.

Although, no doubt, there will be critics of Carolyn’s hypothesis. That’s because she is not a PhD and seems to lack the credentials that would give her any clout to counter the naysayers.

Nonetheless, Carolyn does offer a solid rebuttal. She claims the solution in the study is not pH-balanced.

In fact, the concentration in the study was so high on the alkaline scale that it can indeed cause inflammation of skin cells.

But when this supplement is in skin care products, according to Carolyn, it’s not nearly as concentrated as the rabbit study.

However, it may not be safe if you have a PABA allergy. That’s because PABA, a  toxic ingredient in conventional skin care products, is like a chemical cousin to DMAE.

DMAE for Skin

Advertisements featuring the ingredient claim that this organic compound instantly tightens skin. And, it can penetrate easily. Not just into your skin. But your hair as well.

Certain brands also claim that their products with it work better the more often you apply it to your skin.

More benefits of DMAE for your skin, according to advertisements, include soothing skin irritations. And there’s also wound healing and skin hydrating potential.

According to this study, a 3% solution of it as a facial gel is safe and effective for lessening forehead lines. And, in addition, it smooths out fine wrinkles around the eyes.

Moreover, it may appear to provide lip fullness and improves the overall appearance of facial skin.

And yet another study appears to support it for skin.

This one tested the ingredient in different formulations on hairless mice and human skin. Only the experiment groups with DMAE showed skin improvements.

Furthermore, the study shows that it increases collagen fiber thickness. Collagen is the skin’s main structural protein.

The stronger and thicker your collagen, the healthier your skin. Consequently, the researchers concluded they could suggest the ingredient shows hydration effects on skin.

Related Posts

mango butter
Mango Butter Benefits for Healthy Hair and Skin
apple cider vinegar acne treatment drink
Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne Skin Breakouts
Baking Soda Face Mask
Baking Soda Face Mask Scrub for Fresh Skin

Considering how powerful the compounds in the neem plant are, why is using neem oil for skin and hair gaining in popularity? After all, neem is used as an insecticide. If it can kill critters, wouldn't rubbing it in your hair and skin cause problems? Discover more about this remarkable essential oil.
How to Use Neem Oil For Skin And Hair
Babassu oil benefits
The Amazing Babassu Oil Benefits for Skin and Hair
Got oily skin? Some people suggest ditching concealer and instead using an apple cider vinegar toner for skin problems, including acne. But is it safe and effective? How do you use it? And is there even proof it works? 
Is Using Apple Cider Vinegar Toner for Skin Effective?

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER:

All content on this website is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

None of the information contained in this website should be used to initiate use of dietary supplements, vitamins, herbal and nutritional products or homeopathic medicine, and other described products prior to consulting first with a physician or healthcare provider. The owner of this site and it's writers disclaim any liability based on information provided in this website.

Filed Under: Natural Beauty, Natural Skin Care

About Rachel Garduce

Rachel is the contributing content curator for All Natural Ideas. She is dedicated to a life of natural living and holistic practices. Working as a clinical therapist, she enjoys helping others and holding a space for a like minded community.

Signup for news and special offers!

Yes, Email me Tips, Best Practices and All Natural Products. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

Thank you!

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Trending Articles

What's the Best Xanthan Gum Substitute for Recipes?
Carbs in Almond Flour Vs Coconut Flour
Natural Breast Lift & Supplements for Sagging Breasts
Low Carb Yogurt On Keto: What Kind Is Best?
Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne
How to Use Blackstrap Molasses for Hair

Essential Oils

Essential Oil Burners Electric

Essential Oil Burner vs Diffuser for Aromatherapy

coconut essential oil

Is There a Coconut Essential Oil?

energizing essential oils

Energizing Essential Oils and Blends for Aromatherapy

More Essential Oils

Nutrition

Easy Keto Chocolate Mug Cake

Low Carb Holiday Tips: Sticking to Your Diet

Low Carb Vegetables For a Keto Diet

More Nutrition

Remedies

If you're into natural health, no doubt you're aware of elderberry syrup. It's one of the most popular natural prevention remedies and cures for colds and the flu. But have you heard of elderflower tea? Can preventing colds and flu be as simple as sipping a cuppa?

Are Elderflower Tea Benefits as good as Elderberry Syrup?

What is a poultice?

What Is A Poultice And How Do You Make One?

Low carb easy chicken soup recipe for colds

Best Chicken Soup Recipe for Colds and Flu

More Remedies

Recipes

Easy Keto Chocolate Mug Cake

slow cooker chicken adobo

Filipino Chicken Adobo Slow Cooker Recipe

Low carb easy chicken soup recipe for colds

Best Chicken Soup Recipe for Colds and Flu

More Recipes

Health

More Health

Green Living

More Green Living

House & Home

Essential Oil Burners Electric

Essential Oil Burner vs Diffuser for Aromatherapy

baking soda bath

Benefits of a Baking Soda Bath Beyond Detox

DIY bath crayons

DIY Bath Crayons for Bathtub Fun

More House & Home

Beauty

sugar wax natural hair removal

How to Use Sugar Wax for Natural Hair Removal

natural nails

Tips for Natural Nails that are Pretty and Healthy

oatmeal bath towel and soap

Oatmeal Bath for Skin Irritations and More

More Beauty

Signup for news and special offers!

Yes, Email me Tips, Best Practices and All Natural Products. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

Thank you!

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Trending Topics

  • Keratosis Pilaris

  • Sumac Tea

  • Essential Oils

  • Marula Oil for Hair

  • Stillman Diet

Recent Articles

Easy Keto Cauliflower Fried Rice

The Best Essential Oils for Pain

Keto Taco Bowls with Avocado Salsa

Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Healthy Recipes

Bulletproof Coffee Recipe (Keto Coffee)

Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts with Mustard Sauce

Sumac Tea Health Benefits and How To Make It

Shirataki Noodles Recipes For A Keto Diet

Copyright ©2025, All Natural Ideas. All Rights Reserved.
Design by Pixel Me Designs