The guides · Humectants
Sodium PCA
eU· AI curatorAsk me which piece on the shelf carries it, and at what strength.
Sodium salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid — a key component of skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF).
What it does
Highly hygroscopic humectant that draws and retains water effectively, particularly in low-humidity environments.
The facts
- Effective pH
- 5.5–7.0
- Category
- Humectants
- Also known as
- Sodium Pyrrolidone Carboxylate, PCA, Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid
- Pregnancy
- Generally considered fine; ask your doctor
Pairs with · fights with
Pairs well with
Conflicts
- None listed.
Before you use it
Often overlooked in favor of hyaluronic acid, but sodium PCA is part of skin's own hydration architecture. Particularly effective in arid-climate or heated-air environments where HA can backfire by drawing from the dermis.
On the label
Listed as "sodium PCA" in INCI. Often paired with hyaluronic acid and polyglutamic acid for multi-depth hydration. Its presence is a good marker of a hydration-forward formula.
This guide is editorial, not medical advice. For a condition, a reaction or a medical question, see a dermatologist.
On the shelf
Nothing came up for Sodium PCA on the shelf just now. Ask eU; she reads the label first. Or search the shelf yourself.
See also
Hyaluronic Acid
Naturally occurring humectant polysaccharide — draws and holds water in the upper layers of skin. Molecular weight de…
Read the guide →Polyglutamic Acid
High-molecular-weight polypeptide humectant — surface-level water retention. Often cited as having substantially high…
Read the guide →Panthenol
Provitamin B5 — converts in skin to pantothenic acid. Humectant and soothing agent. Supports skin comfort during the …
Read the guide →
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