Zinc PCA (Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid)

Combines Zinc with moisturizing PCA (Natural Moisturizing Factor)

Reduces sebum production and oily shine

Fights C. acnes (acne-causing bacteria)

Minimizes pores and soothes inflammation

Water-soluble and suitable for leave-on products

Zinc PCA is a high-performance cosmetic active that combines Zinc, known for its antibacterial and seboregulating properties, with PCA, a key component of the skin’s Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). It’s particularly effective in acne-prone, oily, and irritated skin, helping reduce excess oil while maintaining hydration. Zinc PCA also helps reduce redness, tighten pores, and prevent breakouts, making it ideal for use in serums, toners, spot treatments, and even scalp care for oily hair conditions.

INCI Name: Zinc PCA

CAS Number: 15454-75-8

Solubility: Water-soluble

Add Phase: Cool-down phase

pH Stability: Works best in pH 5.0 – 7.0

Processing Temperature: Below 50°C

Appearance: White crystalline powder

Odor: Odorless

Molecular Weight: 227.5 g/mol

Flash Point: Not flammable

Boiling Point: Not applicable

Density: ~1.74 g/cm³

Usage Rate: 0.1% – 1%

Add to cool-down phase

Ideal for: Acne Serums, Toners, Mattifying Creams, Shampoos

💡 Make your own anti-acne serum by combining Zinc PCA (0.5%) with Niacinamide (5%) and Panthenol (1%) in a hydrating base. This trio is perfect for calming inflammation, reducing oil, and healing acne — all without over-drying the skin.

✔️ Ideal for oily, combination, acne-prone, and irritated skin

✔️ Gentle enough for daily use with proper formulation pH

1. Sebum Control Serum

Combine Zinc PCA with niacinamide and allantoin in a lightweight serum. Helps control shine, tighten pores, and soothe acne-prone skin.

2. Anti-Acne Toner

Make a refreshing toner with cucumber extract, salicylic acid, and Zinc PCA. It purifies the skin and reduces breakouts without stripping moisture.

3. Oily Scalp Shampoo

Formulate a shampoo with tea tree oil, Zinc PCA, and panthenol to balance scalp oil and soothe dandruff-prone skin.

4. Mattifying Day Cream

Add Zinc PCA to a light gel-cream with aloe vera, green tea extract, and hyaluronic acid. It hydrates while keeping excess oil under control.

5. Spot Treatment Gel

Use Zinc PCA in a clear gel base with azelaic acid or sulfur to calm active pimples and reduce inflammation overnight.

Q1: Is Zinc PCA safe for sensitive skin?

A1: Yes, it’s gentle and well-tolerated, especially in the right pH range (5.0–6.5).

Q2: Can I use Zinc PCA and Niacinamide together?

A2: Absolutely! They work synergistically to reduce oiliness, redness, and breakouts.

Q3: Does it dry out the skin?

A3: No. Unlike alcohol or harsh actives, Zinc PCA reduces oil without stripping moisture — thanks to the PCA component.

Q4: Is Zinc PCA effective for scalp or dandruff?

A4: Yes. It helps balance excess sebum and may reduce microbial overgrowth on oily scalps.

Q5: Can I use Zinc PCA in both AM and PM routines?

A5: Yes, it’s stable and mild enough for daily use in both morning and night routines.

Product evaluation

Review the specifications, supplied grade, intended use and compatibility of Zinc PCA (Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid) before ordering for production. Test a small quantity in the actual application and document the result before scaling.

Quality control

Inspect the received batch for expected appearance, odor, texture, packaging condition and labeling. Keep supplier and batch records, use accurate measurements, and retain a reference sample when the material is used commercially.

Storage and responsible use

Store tightly closed in a clean, cool and dry location away from direct sunlight. Follow the current supplier instructions and all safety, labeling and regulatory requirements that apply to the intended finished product.