Ingredient
Dimethylaminoethanol Tartrate
Dimethylaminoethanol Tartrate is flagged for pregnancy, breastfeeding and trying to conceive. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body and fetal development.
- DMAE Tartrate
- Deanol Tartrate
- Dimethylethanolamine Tartrate
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Not Recommended
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 3 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 2 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Dimethylaminoethanol Tartrate and pregnancy
Not Recommended
- Absorbed into the body
- Fetal development
- Neural development
DMAE Tartrate is a synthetic anti-aging compound that can penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. It affects cell membrane function and acetylcholine metabolism, which are critical for neural development. While specific pregnancy studies are lacking, DMAE's mechanism of action raises significant concerns. Animal studies have shown potential neurotoxicity, and the compound's ability to cross membranes suggests it could reach the fetus. DMAE was previously used as a prescription drug for neurological conditions, indicating systemic activity. Most dermatologists and obstetricians recommend avoiding ingredients with neuroactive properties during pregnancy due to the critical importance of fetal brain development. Given DMAE's history as a prescription drug affecting neural function and the absence of safety data in pregnancy, the precautionary principle applies. While not explicitly banned, medical professionals generally advise pregnant women to avoid cosmetic ingredients that can affect neurological pathways when safer alternatives exist.
Dimethylaminoethanol Tartrate and breastfeeding
Not Recommended
- Passes into breast milk
- Infant exposure
- Absorbed into the body
DMAE Tartrate is a small, lipophilic molecule that can be absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. Due to its fat-soluble properties and ability to affect neurotransmitter systems, there is concern about transfer into breast milk. While no studies have specifically measured DMAE levels in breast milk, its pharmacological properties suggest potential for milk transfer. DMAE affects acetylcholine metabolism and neural function, which could theoretically impact an infant's developing nervous system if transferred through milk. The compound's previous use as a prescription neurological drug indicates systemic activity at relatively low doses. Given the lack of safety data and DMAE's neuroactive properties, most healthcare providers recommend that breastfeeding mothers postpone use of DMAE-containing products until after weaning. The theoretical risk to infant neurological development outweighs the cosmetic benefits.
Dimethylaminoethanol Tartrate and postpartum
Safe to Use
- Irritant
For postpartum women who are not breastfeeding, DMAE Tartrate presents fewer concerns compared to pregnancy or breastfeeding periods. The ingredient may help address skin laxity and aging concerns that some women experience after childbirth. The primary consideration is potential skin irritation, particularly on sensitive postpartum skin. Starting with products containing lower concentrations and monitoring for redness or irritation is advisable. While systemic absorption occurs, it poses less concern when not pregnant or breastfeeding.
Dimethylaminoethanol Tartrate and trying to conceive
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
- Builds up in tissue
Women trying to conceive should consider discontinuing DMAE Tartrate as conception timing is often uncertain. Since the ingredient raises concerns during pregnancy due to its neuroactive properties and systemic absorption, it's prudent to stop use when actively trying to conceive. DMAE can accumulate in the body due to its lipophilic nature, and the time required for complete elimination is unknown. Most fertility specialists recommend discontinuing potentially problematic ingredients at least one month before attempting conception to ensure clearance from the system.
Dimethylaminoethanol Tartrate and PCOS
Safe to Use
DMAE Tartrate does not interact with hormonal pathways or affect androgen levels, making it suitable for women with PCOS from a hormonal perspective. The ingredient works through cell membrane effects rather than hormonal mechanisms. Women with PCOS often experience premature skin aging due to inflammation and metabolic factors. DMAE's proposed anti-aging benefits may be helpful, though evidence is limited. The main consideration is potential irritation, which some women with PCOS may be more sensitive to if they have inflammatory skin conditions. There is no evidence that DMAE affects insulin sensitivity, androgen levels, or other metabolic aspects of PCOS. It can be used as part of an anti-aging skincare routine without concerns about exacerbating PCOS symptoms.
Dimethylaminoethanol Tartrate and general use
Safe to Use
- Irritant
DMAE Tartrate is marketed as an anti-aging ingredient that claims to improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It works by affecting cell membrane integrity and potentially increasing acetylcholine production, though clinical evidence for topical efficacy is limited. For the general population, DMAE is generally well-tolerated with the primary concern being skin irritation, particularly at higher concentrations. Some users report redness, tingling, or sensitivity when first using DMAE products. Long-term safety data on topical use is limited, though the ingredient has been used in cosmetics for several decades without major safety alerts. While not extensively studied, DMAE appears relatively safe for general cosmetic use in healthy adults who are not pregnant or breastfeeding. Those with sensitive skin should patch test before regular use and introduce products gradually.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
Related ingredients
Ingredients suggested in place of Dimethylaminoethanol Tartrate, each one with its own page here.
Ingredients that raise the same concerns.
Where this came from
Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.
Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on .
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