From the Desk of Dr. Z: AgelessRx Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Sajad Zalzala offers his insightful perspective on topics related to longevity. With a wealth of experience and a deep-seated passion for disease prevention and extending healthy lifespans, Dr. Z is dedicated to sharing his knowledge on the secrets to longevity. Today, he shares his knowledge on the safety profile of DMAE, and whether criticisms of its safety are supported by research.
Here’s what we’ll cover in this blog post:
- Is DMAE safe?
- Where the criticism originates
- What the evidence really shows
At AgelessRx, we understand the importance of addressing customer concerns regarding the safety of skincare ingredients. One of our popular formulations, DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol) skin cream, has been praised for its skin-firming and anti-aging benefits.
However, some patients have raised questions about the safety of DMAE due to one particular study on fibroblast cells.
Here, we’ll explore the broader scientific evidence surrounding DMAE in skincare to offer clarity on its safety and efficacy.
What Is DMAE?
DMAE is a naturally occurring compound used in skincare. Researchers have celebrated DMAE for its ability to improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and enhance overall firmness. It’s one of the few skincare agents scientifically proven to deliver skin-tightening effects, making it popular in anti-aging products.
The 2007 Fibroblast Study: What It Found
One of the key studies that raises concerns about DMAE safety is the 2007 study published by Morissette et al. in the British Journal of Dermatology.
In this study, researchers tested DMAE on fibroblast cultures and rabbit skin. The researchers observed a process called vacuolization in fibroblast cells. Vacuolization is a response to cellular damage that may sometimes indicate cell death. Vacuolization often occurs when cells are under stress, leading some to conclude that DMAE might induce cell damage, particularly at high concentrations.
Moreover, the study indicated that DMAE impaired fibroblast division temporarily. This raised concerns about the long-term effects on skin regeneration and aging.
However, the same study noted that these adverse effects were reversible after washing the cells. In the analysis, researchers on the 2007 study noted no permanent damage.
Interpreting the Study: What Does It Mean for Skincare?
While the findings of the 2007 study warrant consideration, it’s crucial to put them into context. The conditions under which the effects occurred aren’t representative of typical cosmetic use. This includes high concentrations and the use of an alkaline form of DMAE.
Here are some key considerations:
- Concentration Differences: The concentrations used in the study were significantly higher than those found in over-the-counter skincare products. AgelessRx’s DMAE cream, for example, uses a 3% concentration, which is well within the safety margins that researchers have established in clinical trials.
- pH Balance: The DMAE used in the study was highly alkaline, whereas most cosmetic formulations are pH-balanced, including AgelessRx’s formulation, which reduces the likelihood of cellular stress and damage.
- Animal vs. Human Skin: The rabbit skin test is not directly translatable to human skin, which has different sensitivities and regenerative abilities. Thus, human-based studies are more relevant for understanding DMAE’s real-world impact.
Clinical Research Supporting DMAE’s Safety
One of the most cited studies confirming the safety of DMAE in humans is a 2005 clinical trial. This trial was conducted by Dr. Rachel Grossman and published in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology.
In this trial, 3% DMAE gel was applied daily for 16 weeks, leading to significant improvements in skin firmness, reduction of fine lines, and improved facial contour. Importantly, no adverse reactions such as redness, peeling, or irritation occurred during or after the trial period. The study even showed that patients sustained benefits for weeks after stopping the application.
Further, a 2002 split-face study conducted by Uhoda et al. showed that DMAE can effectively increase skin firmness without negative effects. This study compared DMAE-treated skin with untreated areas, demonstrating measurable improvements in skin elasticity on the treated side.
Addressing Long-Term Concerns
Given the reversible nature of the adverse effects noted in lab-based studies and the long history of safe DMAE use in cosmetics, concerns about long-term skin damage remain largely speculative.
While the 2007 fibroblast study highlighted vacuolization as a potential risk, clinical trials in humans—where DMAE is used at lower concentrations and in pH-balanced formulations—have not replicated these concerns.
What About DMAE Concentration?
For those still concerned about the potential risks, it’s important to consider the concentration of DMAE in the product. Most research, including the 2005 Grossman study, supports the safety of 3% DMAE for daily use.
However, formulations with 1% DMAE are also available for individuals with particularly sensitive skin. These formulations offer a safer starting point for those hesitant to use stronger concentrations.
DMAE Is Safe and Effective When Used Properly
DMAE remains a widely used and effective ingredient in anti-aging skincare products. While some early laboratory studies raised concerns, extensive clinical research has demonstrated that DMAE, when used in appropriate concentrations and formulations, is both safe and beneficial.
The reversible nature of the cellular changes observed in lab studies, coupled with long-term human trials showing no adverse effects, reassures us that DMAE is a reliable tool for improving skin appearance.
At AgelessRx, we ensure that our DMAE formulations are not only effective but also safe for daily use. If you have any further questions or concerns, we encourage you to reach out to our team. Your skin’s health is our priority.
Note: The above statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.