Sodium PCA
INCI: Sodium PCA
Also known as: Sodium Pyrrolidone Carboxylate, PCA
HydrationhumectantsyntheticModerate evidencePregnancy safe
79
Skinlumis Rating
Comedogenic
0/5
Irritancy
0/5
Best applied
Both
Effective range
0.5%–5%
How It Works
A natural component of the skin's NMF that binds significantly more water than glycerin. Critical for stratum corneum hydration.
A hygroscopic salt that lives between corneocytes and binds water, mimicking the action of endogenous NMF.
pH Range
4.0–7.0
Benefits
- Hydrates
- Replenishes NMF
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Lightweight
Proven For
What the evidence supports.
DehydrationBarrier weakness
Best For
- All skin types
Avoid If
No notable contraindications reported.
Layering Order
4/10
Mid-routine serum or treatment step.
Max Safe Concentration
5%
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 0.5%–5%
Seasonal Use
Year-round.
Nutrition Connection
-
Skin Signals When You Need It
- NMF depletion → tight, dull skin
For Estheticians & Professionals
Synergistic with HA and glycerin in a moisture-binding triad.
Clinical Evidence
The research behind Sodium PCA.
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 →Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2014
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 →Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
Randomized Controlled Trial
Ceramide-dominant emollients improved skin barrier function by 63% within 6 weeks.
Draelos ZD, Ertel K, Berge C
Cutis, 2006
View Study →Cutis, 2006
Pairs Well With
Conflicts With
No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.
Your Skin Compatibility
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