Is Sodium PCA Safe?

Is Sodium PCA Safe?

What is Sodium PCA

Sodium PCA is short for sodium pyroglutamic acid, aka pyrrolidone carboxylic acid. (PCA) It is the sodium salt of pyroglutamic acid, a derivative of the amino acid proline. It is used as a humectant and skin conditioner in cosmetic formulas and can be derived or synthesized from petroleum, plant, or animal sources. 

What are its risks

In the presence of certain chemicals and in heat and light, sodium PCA can break down and create carcinogenic nitrosamines. Source

Sodium PCA has been found to be absorbed through the skin; it's estimated that 1% of the concentration of sodium pyroglutamic is able to reach the bloodstream Source, pg 9. It is believed that the body metabolizes it to glutamic acid, an amino acid that the body uses in many basic functions. 

It has not been found to be a reproductive or endocrine toxin. It is also not a photo-toxin or corrosive eye irritant. Source

Despite the compound's synthetic origins, it is actually a natural component of our skin's "acid mantle" or moisture barrier. Sodium pyroglutamic acid can help mimic the skin's natural barrier and soothe skin from inflammation. It very rarely can be a skin irritant. Source

Bottom Line:

Sodium PCA can be a helpful ingredient in skincare and is generally non-toxic. Despite its iffy-sounding name, it's a compound naturally found in our skin. Formulators should take care to not use it with nitrostating agents, as that is its biggest downside, its potential to form carcinogenic nitrosamines under certain conditions.