Sodium PCA (sodium pyrrolidone carboxylic acid) is the sodium salt of pyroglutamic acid and a component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF). It is widely used in cosmetics as a water-binding humectant to hydrate and soften the skin.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Mild transient stinging or irritation | Rare | Occasional in sensitive or compromised skin; usually mild and short-lived. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | Sensitization is uncommon; isolated reports exist. |
Redness or itching | Rare | Generally associated with overall formulation rather than the ingredient alone. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.