1 minute read
Skincare with Geraldine Walters
What’s in the pot?
An A-Z introduction to cosmetic ingredients – D is for DMAE (dim-ethyl-amino-ethanol)
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Not exactly a
Dname that trips off the tongue, but those of you who are keen on supplements may have come across it in your local health shop. Here’s the lowdown: First, if you've heard of fish referred to as brain food, you can thank DMAE. This substance is naturally produced in the brain, but DMAE is also present in anchovies, salmon, and sardines. DMAE in skincare, however, is used as a firming and antiwrinkle treatment. It’s a natural compound in the human body and synthetically reproduced for industry. The tensile effect of DMAE is due to the stimulation of fibroblasts; cells that produce connective tissue such as collagen.
It can also protect neurons and other cells from the harmful effects of certain types of oxidation by embedding itself in the structure of the cell and acting as an anti-oxidant. So it works wonders along with a good dose of topical vitamin C and E. In a clinical study, 3% DMAE facial gel applied daily for 16 weeks proved to be safe and efficacious. It reduced forehead lines and fine wrinkles, improved lip shape and fullness and the overall appearance of ageing skin – and the results were still there two weeks later. A great method of applying DMAE in clinic is using it for skin needling. This sounds dramatic, but just means the therapist uses an electronic ‘pen’ device with tiny needles to break the surface of the skin. This allows the product to penetrate and get to work immediately. The result is a smoother, firmer and plumper skin, with cumulative effects after a second treatment. In brief, this ingredient reduces the appearance, depth and length of fine lines and wrinkles and reduces or prevents DNA damage. When ingested, it can increase creativity, memory, concentration and improve energy. Remember that a good quality source is essential and more is not necessarily better.
Follow Geraldine at skinprof_norfolk
@geraldinewaltersadvancedskincare info@geraldinewalters.co.uk
