Sodium PCA
Sodium PCA is a naturally derived humectant commonly used in UK skincare and haircare to attract and hold moisture. It helps keep skin and hair feeling soft, smooth and hydrated without any greasy residue. You’ll often find it in moisturisers, serums, masks and conditioners.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics Sodium PCA functions as a highly effective humectant that draws water from the air and the deeper layers of the skin to the surface, helping to maintain optimal hydration levels. It is a derivative of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, a component naturally present in the skin’s natural moisturising factor, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into formulations and improve the texture and feel of creams, lotions and hair products.
Key benefits
- Attracts and binds moisture to the skin
- Improves skin softness and smoothness
- Enhances product texture and spreadability
- Helps reduce feelings of tightness in dry skin
- Conditions and hydrates hair without weighing it down
- Boosts overall skin hydration in lightweight formulas
Best for
dry skin, dehydrated skin, normal skin, sensitive skin, mature skin
Where it comes from
Sodium PCA is derived from glutamic acid, an amino acid typically sourced from fermented plant sugars such as sugar beet or corn.