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Skin Care › Skin Care Tips› Side Effects of DMAE

Does DMAE Really live up to the Hype and are There any Side Effects?

DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol) is a naturally-occurring substance that can be purchased as DMAE cream, tablets, liquid or capsules. It increases levels of acetylcholine and may also stimulate the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine. It is produced naturally in the brain and found in anchovies and sardines. You can purchase DMAE cream, tablets, liquid, or capsules. The exact benefits and any DMAE side effects have not yet been established.

Recently, there have been claims that when DMAE is applied topically (that is applied to the skin with a DMAE cream or lotion), it has face-lifting and skin-tightening properties.

DMAE is also known as a "brain" or "smart" drug. It increases the chemicals in the brain that are needed for short-term memory, concentration and learning. It has been used to treat children with ADHD and people with Alzheimer's disease.

Is DMAE really effective?

The exact effects of topical DMAE (ie DMAE cream and DMAE lotion) on the skin have not been thoroughly researched. The science world is divided as to the extent DMAE actually works and how it works. Most people agree, though, that DMAE does improve the appearance of the skin.

Studies have been shown that DMAE causes the skin to tighten and tone, particularly around the eyes. DMAE usually produces a noticeable effect, but not the dramatic effect that would occur from a face-lift. Often it may take some time for there to be a dramatic improvement. Continual use will increase the effect.

In Which Ways can DMAE be administered to the skin?

Many skin care companies have released DMAE creams and DMAE lotions. You can also purchase DMAE gel or DMAE lotion. These are applied directly onto the skin, usually once or twice a day. Prices range, but some can be quite expensive. Breaking open a DMAE tablet and applying it to the skin will not have any effect.

Taking DMAE tablets, or eating lots of fish like anchovies and sardines, will also improve the appearance of the skin, but it will not have the effect of a topical DMAE cream. DMAE may also be applied as part of a mesolift, where the face is given micro-injections over a period of two to three years.

Benefits DMAE can present in terms of skin toning and tightening

Topical DMAE (DMAE cream and lotion) can tighten the skin and decrease facial sagging. Neck folds, sagging cheeks, fine links and sagging eyebrows have also been reported to improve after the continual application of DMAE. Some reports even suggest a noticeable improvement after 24 hours.

The DMAE antioxidant properties help the membrane resist stress and protect it from free radical damage. It also increases the effects of other antioxidants in the skin. People who regularly use DMAE often get an improvement in the facial musculature, resulting in a leaner look.