DMAE: Fountain of Youth in a Bottle?

by D.M. Murdock

A precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, DMAE - the acronym for dimethylaminoethanol - is widely believed to increase the firmness and elasticity of skin, when applied topically. It is found in numerous skin creams, and is said to have a "dramatic effect" on "facial sag" and on loose skin on the rest of the body, including "saddle bags" and the dimpling effect of cellulite.

It is possible to make your own skin cream, using a few of the ingredients thought to revitalize the skin, including DMAE, alpha lipoic acid, hyuralonic acid, vitamin C and NaPCA. A good base for the fat-soluble alpha lipoic acid and vitamin C is jojoba oil, while the NaPCA acts as a solvent for the other incredients. Mix these together in varying quantities, dependent on your skin-type needs. For example, some may be more comfortable with a less oily formula, and others with more oil. What is generally agreed is that in order for results to be seen from oral application, fairly large amounts of ALA and DMAE need to be used.

DMAE used topically may increase the firmness of the areas where it is applied. However, since little DMAE is likely to be absorbed into the bloodstreamn in this manner, it probably does little to increase longevity, unless ingested orally. If oral DMAE improves skin texture, we may logically conclude that it may also assist in increasing longevity. Our skin is in fact an organ, reflecting the overall well-being of our entire body!

In other words, the skin's health is a sign of our general health. If our skin remains relatively young, firm and elastic, we can assume so too will our blood vessels, veins and arteries, as well as the tissues of our internal organs, such as our heart, brain, lungs and kidneys remains youthful.

In fact, laboratory experiments with animals indicate that DMAE may have a modest effect on longevity. The oral dose for DMAE is suggested to be between 5 and 10 millileters.

Note: The video below was not created by D.M. Murdock/Acharya S and does not necessarily represent her views.