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| Catalog Number | CI-SC-0011 |
| Product Name | Sodium PCA |
| CAS | 28874-51-3 |
| Structure |  |
| Description | Sodium PCA is the sodium salt of pyroglutamic acid which is an uncommon amino acid found naturally in many proteins. Concentration: 50% (dissolved in water). GMO-free, gluten-free. |
| Solubility | Water-soluble |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow clear liquid |
| Application | All kinds of skin care products such as creams, gels, lotions, hair care products, color cosmetics. |
| Storage | Store in a closed container at a dry place at room temperature |
| Composition | Sodium PCA (sodium L-pyroglutamate) |
| Features And Benefits | Occurs naturally in human skin and is responsible for binding moisture to the cellsHighly water-absorbent, holding several time its weight in water, which makes it an excellent humectantWell-know as skin-penetration enhancerStronger hydrating agent than the traditional compounds like glycerin or propylene glycolGood for hair care as it reduces static electricity. |
| GMO | GMO-free |
| HS Code | 2922494050 |
| INCI | Sodium PCA (sodium L-pyroglutamate) |
| Manufacture | A fermentation process of sugars and starches is then used in order to create PCA from proline. |
| Preservation | Preservative-free |
| Purity Grade | No purity grade applicable |
| Raw Material Source | The original amino acid proline is obtained mainly from fruits and coconut oil. |
| Uses | Add as is to the water phase of the formulas, typical use level 1 - 10% in emulsions. For external use only. |
Sodium PCA is an essential ingredient in numerous cosmetic formulations due to its role as a natural moisturizing factor (NMF). Highly hygroscopic, it helps to maintain skin and hair moisture by attracting water, thereby enhancing softness and elasticity. As a sodium salt, Sodium PCA is water-soluble, which facilitates its inclusion in various cosmetic products. This colorless and odorless compound is safe even at high concentrations and remains stable across a range of temperatures and pH levels. Additionally, it is rapidly biodegradable, underscoring its environmental compatibility. Sodium PCA is widely utilized in skin care products such as creams, lotions, and shower gels; hair care items like shampoos and conditioners; as well as sun care and make-up products, including foundations and lipsticks. Typically, it is incorporated in formulations at concentrations ranging from 1% to 4%.
Nadarzynski, Alexandra, et al. Cosmetics, 2022, 9(3), 53.
The effects of agents that reduce water activity (aw) on the antimicrobial properties of oil-in-water emulsions and skin physiological parameters were studied. The selected natural humectant combination included sodium lactate, propylene glycol, erythritol, betaine, and sodium PCA. The natural humectant combination reduced aw from 0.980 ± 0.003 to 0.865 ± 0.005 at a total concentration of 28 wt% in the oil-in-water emulsion. The challenge tests indicated that the aw-reduced emulsion significantly lowered microbial counts of potential pathogens. Additionally, using the aw-lowered emulsion twice a day for four weeks improved skin barrier function, as evidenced by a significant reduction in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and increased hydration of the stratum corneum (SC).
Preparation of formulations
· Five oil-in-water (o/w) emulsions contained different amounts of a combination of aw-reducing solutes and antimicrobial agents, measured in weight percent, while keeping the ratio of lipophilic and hydrophilic phases constant. The emulsions contained either 28%, 20%, or 0%.
· The formulations were made by mixing the components of phase A (Xanthan Gum dissolved in demineralized water, along with any necessary solutes and antimicrobial agents) and phase B separately. Both phases were heated to 70 °C and then phase B was added to phase A while stirring at 1000 rpm. The mixture was slightly cooled and homogenized at 9000 rpm for two minutes. Phase C was then added at room temperature, and the pH was adjusted to 5.50 ± 0.05 one day later using Lactic Acid (90%) or Sodium Hydroxide (30%).
What is Sodium PCA and what role does it play in skincare and hair care products?
Sodium PCA is a natural moisturizing factor (NMF) found abundantly in the skin. It is highly hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and retains moisture, which helps to impart a pleasant, moist feeling to both skin and hair. As a water-soluble salt, Sodium PCA is commonly used in cosmetics to enhance skin and hair softness and elasticity.
Is Sodium PCA safe to use on the skin?
Yes, Sodium PCA is considered safe for use on the skin, even in high concentrations. It is colorless, odorless, and does not lead to irritation, making it a gentle ingredient suitable for a wide range of cosmetic applications.
In which types of cosmetic products is Sodium PCA commonly found?
Sodium PCA is widely used in a variety of cosmetic products, including skincare items like creams, lotions, and tonics; hair care products such as shampoos, conditioners, hair tonics, and hair creams; sun care products like pre and post-sun care creams, lotions, and gels; and make-up products including foundations and lipsticks.
What are the solubility characteristics of Sodium PCA?
Sodium PCA is soluble in water and ethanol, but it is insoluble in mineral oil and isopropylene. These solubility properties make it a versatile ingredient for many cosmetic formulations.
How stable is Sodium PCA in different environmental conditions?
Sodium PCA is stable across a broad range of temperatures and pH levels, which contributes to its widespread use in various products. Additionally, it is rapidly biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly ingredient.
At what concentration is Sodium PCA typically used in cosmetic formulations?
Sodium PCA is typically used at concentrations ranging from 1-4% in cosmetic products. This range is effective in providing moisture and enhancing the softness and elasticity of skin and hair without causing irritation.
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