Polyglutamic Acid 500 g

How a fermentation-derived biopolymer is reshaping industrial moisturizing formulas

Polyglutamic acid is a naturally derived biopolymer produced through bacterial fermentation, traditionally associated with the Japanese fermented food natto. Over the past several years this ingredient has been gaining rapid traction across the global personal care industry as both a standalone humectant and a companion to classic hyaluronic acid, since it can bind an even larger volume of water relative to its own mass. This product belongs to the Moisturizing actives category, which brings together ingredients for deep and long-lasting hydration of skin and hair. The 500 gram pack size is aimed at laboratories, contract manufacturers and production lines that need supply stability and the ability to work with large batch formulations without frequent reordering.

The primary application area for polyglutamic acid is skincare: serums, creams, emulsions, toners, face and body masks, after-sun products and formulations for sensitive skin. The molecule forms a thin film on the surface that reduces transepidermal water loss and delivers a smooth feel immediately after application. Beyond skincare and color cosmetics, the ingredient is widely used in shampoo, conditioner and hair mask production, where it helps retain moisture inside the hair fiber and improves combability. A separate niche is pharmaceutical manufacturing, where the polymer serves as an excipient in delivery systems for active compounds, as well as the food industry, where it acts as a thickener and texture stabilizer. In agriculture, biodegradable grades of the polymer are used for soil moisture retention, which extends the industrial value of this raw material well beyond a single sector.

In finished formulas polyglutamic acid is typically added to the water phase during the cooling stage at temperatures not exceeding 40-45 degrees Celsius, which preserves the polymer's molecular structure. Usage levels commonly range from 0.1 to 2 percent depending on the product type and the desired gel texture. The ingredient pairs well with other humectants and can enhance their performance: an interesting combination emerges with 4D Hyaluronic Acid Hymagic, which works across different skin layers thanks to its blend of molecular weights. For formulas with a prebiotic effect that supports the skin microbiome, the polymer is often combined with Jerusalem Artichoke Inulin, while anti-aging formulations aimed at strengthening the skin barrier benefit from pairing it with NAG.

Polyglutamic acid is hygroscopic, so the raw material should be stored in a sealed container, in a dry room at room temperature, away from direct moisture and sunlight. When storage conditions are respected, the polymer retains its declared properties over a long period, which makes the large pack size convenient for industrial manufacturers working with scheduled procurement cycles. The ingredient suits formulas of any complexity, from simple toners to multi-phase emulsions, and has virtually no restrictions by skin type, making it a versatile solution for a wide product lineup, including small trial batches of homemade cosmetics and even certain natural soap formulas built around a moisturizing effect.

Overnight hydrating facial gel

Distilled water 90 g

Polyglutamic acid 1.2 g

Glycerin 4 g

Panthenol 3 g

Preservative 3 g

Hyaluronic acid low molecular weight 1 g