What is Sodium PCA?

Sodium PCA (Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid) is a naturally occurring skin property that is derived from amino acids to act as a humectant and retain moisture in the skin.

Sodium PCA can be found in both plant and animal tissue, however at SKINICIAN we only use plant-derived Sodium PCA to ensure we are vegan-friendly. Sodium PCA hydrates the upper layers of skin by acting as a humectant i.e. retaining and trapping water in the skin, which in turn, helps to protect the skin barrier.

Sodium PCA can be used in many cosmetics such as haircare, skincare, lipsticks and foundations to name a few.  Regular use of Sodium PCA can help make skin smoother, softer and more supple, helping to disguise the signs of ageing such as lines or wrinkles.

Skin benefits of ​sodium pca

Sodium PCA skin benefits include:

Humectant
Attracting and trapping water in our skin, sodium PCA enters the top layers of skin and subsequently passes to inner layers, ensuring hydration from within

Protective
Sodium PCA will help form intercellular lipids that hold your cells together and therefore supports and protects the skin's barrier by preventing water loss.  By protecting the skin's barrier you also fight against bacteria, pollutants and UV rays.

Anti-ageing
Sodium PCA is naturally occurring within our skin but it’s levels diminish as we age. Applying products with sodium PCA on a daily basis, will help hydrate and hold water to plump fine lines and wrinkles.

Anti-inflammatory
Sodium PCA strengthens the immune system as it protects the delicate microflora, thereby reducing inflammation in the body and on the skin

Treats eczema
From the combined benefits above, Sodium PCA, reduces inflammation on dry, scaly skin and is non irritating which helps to reduce itchiness.

We often get asked: Is sodium PCA good for skin? Yes for all of the above reasons.

Why We Use Sodium PCA

“Sodium PCA is highly effective at increasing skin moisture retention, particularly when working alongside other humectants such as Glycerin, Propylene Glycol or Hyaluronic Acid.  We choose Sodium PCA for our Revitalising Toner as it can be used by even the most sensitive of skins, helps boost moisture and also treats dry skin concerns.” - Shelley Martin, Co Founder & New Product Development Lead

Sodium PCA Skincare Products

Who Sodium PCA Is Best For

Suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive or irritated skin.

Sodium PCA in skincare is non-comedogenic and does not clog pores.

Before and After Using Sodium PCA

Take a look at some of our real before and afters taken by customers who used SKINICIAN Revitalising Toner containing Sodium PCA: