Pca

The Basics On Pca

What is Pca?

PCA (which stands for pyrrolidone carboxylic acid), is an ingredient derived from amino acids that serves as a humectant and is part of the natural moisturizing factor.

What are other names for Pca?

2-PYRROLIDONE-5-CARBOXYLIC ACID, 3(2H)-PYRIDAZINONE, 5-AMINO-4-CHLORO-2-PHENYL-, 5-OXO- L-PROLINE, 5-OXO-L-PROLINE, CHLORIDAZON, DL-PYRROLIDONECARBOXYLIC ACID, GLUTIMIC ACID, GLUTIMINIC ACID, L-PROLINE, 5-OXO-, L-PYROGLUTAMIC ACID, and PCA

What is Pca used for?

In cosmetics and personal care products, PCA (pyrrolidonecarboxylic acid) is used mostly in the formulation of hair conditioners and moisturizers. The sodium salt of PCA, Sodium PCA, can be found in these products, as well as in shampoos, hair sprays, permanent waves, skin fresheners and other hair and skin care products. Sodium PCA is the sodium salt of pyroglutamic acid (also known as PCA). PCA is a naturally occurring component of human skin and a part of the “natural moisturizing factors” (NMF) that maintain a healthy epidermis. Sodium PCA is very hygroscopic, attracting moisture from the air.

How Pca is classified

Hydration

Recommendations for using Pca during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Limited data suggests no known risk

 

Pca During Pregnancy

What we know about using Pca while pregnant or breastfeeding

Limited information available.

N/A

General safety info about Pca from CIR

PCA is the cosmetic ingredient term used for the cyclic organic compound known commonly as pyroglutamic acid. Sodium PCA is the sodium salt of PCA. Both are used as hair and skin conditioning agents. These ingredients are recommended to be used in a concentration range of 0.2-4%. One optical isomer of PCA (the L form) is a naturally occurring component of mammalian tissue. PCA applied to the skin is absorbed to a limited extent. Absorption is in addition to PCA already present in the skin. In short-term and subchronic studies in several animal species, findings were unremarkable except for neurotoxicity in mice when injected interstriatally. No such findings were seen in similar studies using rats or with oral administration using mice. In animal studies, Sodium PCA was nonirritating to the eye and skin at concentrations up to 50%. No evidence of phototoxicity, sensitization, or comedogenicity was found. These ingredients were not genotoxic. In a range of clinical tests, PCA and Sodium PCA were found to be nonirritating and nonsensitizing (with and without UV exposure). Based on the low actual skin penetration of dermally applied PCA and in recognition of the endogenous levels found in the skin, it was considered that reproductive and developmental toxicity data were not critical to completion of the safety assessment. Based on the available data, it was concluded that PCA and Sodium PCA are safe as presently used in cosmetic formulations. These ingredients, however, should not be used in cosmetic products containing nitrosating agents.

Use this, not that!

Products where you might find Pca

Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum; Clearskin; Collagen Hydrator; Nutrient Toner; ExLinea Peptide Smoothing Serum; Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA; F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial Mask; AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser; Essential-C Cleanser; Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Serum