Sodium PCA 50% 1 L

What makes sodium salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid essential for long-lasting skin hydration

Sodium PCA is the sodium salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, a substance naturally found in the upper layers of human skin as part of the natural moisturizing factor. Its strong hygroscopic nature allows it to pull water molecules from the surrounding air and hold them within the stratum corneum, keeping skin hydrated even in dry climates. This is exactly why the ingredient belongs to the Moisturizing actives category, which brings together components designed to restore deep water balance in skin and hair rather than create a temporary surface film.

The largest demand for this raw material comes from personal care manufacturing — moisturizing creams, serums, toners, emulsions, sheet masks and hydrating boosters for face and body. In these formulations Sodium PCA retains moisture far more efficiently than plain glycerin while remaining non-tacky and easily absorbed into the upper skin layers. Haircare is another major application: shampoos, conditioners, leave-in sprays and split-end serums rely on it to fight dryness and static. Color cosmetics manufacturers add it to primers, foundations, BB and CC creams to prevent skin from drying out under layers of pigment. Pharmaceutical labs use it in topical formulations aimed at restoring the skin barrier, while household chemistry producers include it in softening formulas for textiles and leather goods.

Sodium PCA blends well with other natural moisturizing factor components. It is frequently combined with Sodium Lactate, which complements the NMF molecular complex and strengthens the buffering properties of a formula. A strong synergistic effect appears when paired with Curasan (Kurasan), a combination often used in intensive night creams and repair masks. For anti-aging lines and lifting products, the ingredient is often introduced together with Marine Fish Collagen, delivering a combined effect on hydration and skin firmness at once.

The recommended dosage ranges from 1 to 5 percent of the total formula weight depending on the intended hydration intensity. It should be added to the water phase during the cooling stage of an emulsion, at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, to preserve the active molecular structure. The material remains stable across a wide pH range and is compatible with most preservatives, thickeners and water-based actives. Store the raw material in a tightly sealed container, in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

The 1 liter packaging suits studio and small-batch production: ideal for formulation labs, private contract manufacturers and emerging brands testing recipes before scaling up, who need a stable volume of raw material for regular batches without frequent reorders.

Overnight hydrating facial gel

Distilled water 78 ml

Sodium PCA 50% 6 ml

Hyaluronic acid solution 1 percent 5 ml

Xanthan gum 0.3 g

Panthenol 2 ml

Broad spectrum preservative 1 ml

Geranium essential oil 3 drops