Zinc PCA in Skin Care

Zinc PCA is a much-loved ingredient used in various skincare products due to its range of benefits for the skin, from skin conditioning, skin calming, to controlling oil production.

Facts about zinc PCA

What is zinc PCA and what does it do to the skin?

Zinc PCA is a salt formed by combining zinc with pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA) obtained from amino acids and L-glutamic acid. PCA as we know is a naturally occuring amino acid found in the skin.

As a well-known humectant, zinc PCA can do more than just providing the skin with hydration:

Sebum regulation

Sebum is a natural oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands. While it helps to keep the skin moisturized, excessive sebum can lead to skin problem such as acne. Zinc PCA helps to regulate sebum production by inhibiting 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that stimulates sebum production.

Antibacterial

Zinc PCA has the ability to control bacteria that can contribute to acne breakouts by disrupting the bacterial cell membrane [1]. Because of this mechanism, zinc PCA can help to prevent the formation of blemishes and promote clearer skin.

Skin soothing

Individuals with skin conditions like eczema or rosacea may be benefitted from zinc PCA's soothing properties. This compound is able to inhibit the release of inflammatory cytokines, while additionally helps to repair the skin's barrier function that is esssential to prevent future irritation.

Skin protectant

Research has found that zinc compounds can reduce the damage caused by UVA rays in the skin of mice by minimizing the production of harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species [2] [3]. Similarly, zinc offers protection against UVB damage. For example, a specific zinc compound has been shown to decrease oxidative stress in the skin by increasing the production of a protein called metallothionein [4]. Interestingly, zinc also stimulates the production of collagen, a key component of skin structure, in bone-forming cells.

Incorporating zinc PCA in your routine

While zinc PCA is particularly beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin, it is generally well-tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive skin. Moreover, zinc PCA is considered safe for use during pregnancy.

Recognizing the numerous skin benefits of zinc PCA, we incorporated this ingredient into our Clarifying Cleansing Mousse. By carefully selecting and formulating the ingredients, we have created a product designed to help you achieve a clear and healthy complexion.

Sources

[1]. M. Abendrot, U. Kalinowska-Lis: Zinc-containing compounds for personal care applications. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2018, 40, 319-327.

[2]. H. Nishimura, H. Yasui, H. Sakurai: Suppressive effects of zinc compounds against UVA-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the skin of hairless mice. Biomed. Res. Trace Elements. 2003, 14, 239–242.

[3]. Y. Yasuhara, H. Yasui, H. Sakurai: Protective effect of metallogluconates
against UVA-induced cutaneous lesion in HR-1 hairless mice. Biomed. Res. Trace Ele-
ments. 2005, 16, 302–305.

[4]. H. Masaki, Y. Ochiai, Y. Okano. et al: A zinc(II)-glycine complex is an effective inducer of metallothionein and removes oxidative stress. J. Dermatol. Sci. 2007, 45, 73–75.