Ingredient
PCA
Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid
Pyroglutamic Acid
2-Pyrrolidinone-5-carboxylic acid
What it is
PCA (pyrrolidone carboxylic acid) is a naturally occurring component of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). In cosmetics it is used, often as its sodium salt, to help the skin retain water.
How it works
As a highly hygroscopic small molecule, PCA binds and holds water within the stratum corneum, supplementing the skin's own NMF and helping maintain surface hydration.
What it does
Humectant
Skin conditioning
Buffering
Concerns to know
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Barrier & hydration support
A well-studied humectant or emollient that helps hydrate the skin and support its moisture barrier.