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Polyglutamic Acid

INCI: Polyglutamic Acid
Also known as: PGA, γ-PGA
HydrationhumectantbiotechEmerging evidencePregnancy safe
80
Skinlumis Rating
Comedogenic
0/5
Irritancy
0/5
Best applied
Both
Effective range
0.1%–2%
How It Works

A peptide-like polymer produced by Bacillus fermentation. Holds up to 4× more water than hyaluronic acid and forms a moisture-locking film.

Anionic polymer that binds water and forms a surface film, reducing TEWL and inhibiting hyaluronidase to preserve endogenous HA.

pH Range
5.0–7.0
Benefits
  • Holds more water than HA
  • Inhibits hyaluronidase
  • Forms a hydrating film
  • Long-lasting plumping
Proven For

What the evidence supports.

DehydrationFine lines
Best For
  • All skin types
Avoid If

No notable contraindications reported.

Layering Order
4/10

Mid-routine serum or treatment step.

Max Safe Concentration
2%

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 0.1%–2%

Seasonal Use

Year-round.

Nutrition Connection

Found in natto (fermented soy).

Skin Signals When You Need It

No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.

For Estheticians & Professionals

Layered over HA, PGA seals it in, outperforms HA alone for sustained hydration.

Clinical Evidence

The research behind Polyglutamic Acid.

4 peer-reviewed studies

Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.

Randomized Controlled Trial
Nano-hyaluronic acid significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity after 8 weeks.
Jegasothy SM, Zabolotniaia V, Bielfeldt S
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2014
View Study →
Systematic Review
Oral collagen peptides at 2.5-10g daily significantly improved skin elasticity and reduced wrinkle depth after 8-12 weeks across 11 RCTs.
Choi FD, Sung CT, Juhasz MLW, Mesinkovska NA
Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2019
View Study →
Systematic Review
Estrogen deficiency following menopause causes 30% reduction in skin collagen within the first 5 years.
Wilkinson HN, Hardman MJ
Maturitas, 2017
View Study →
Systematic Review
Chronic psychological stress elevates cortisol, accelerating skin aging through collagen degradation and barrier disruption.
Chen Y, Lyga J
Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
View Study →
Pairs Well With
Hyaluronic AcidNiacinamideCeramide NP
Conflicts With

No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.

Your Skin Compatibility

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The science behind Polyglutamic Acid

1 study from the Intelligence Vault that discuss Polyglutamic Acid.

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