What it is
Magnesium PCA is the magnesium salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA), a component of skin's natural moisturizing factor. In cosmetic formulas it acts as a humectant that helps attract and hold water, and as a skin-conditioning agent. It is water-soluble and added to the water phase.
Safety & warnings
It is generally well tolerated as used in cosmetics. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen and is not associated with comedogenicity.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic salt formed from PCA and a magnesium source; PCA also occurs naturally in skin.
Questions everyone asks
What does magnesium PCA do?
It acts as a humectant, drawing in and holding moisture, and as a skin-conditioning agent.
Is PCA related to the skin's own moisturizers?
Yes, PCA is a component of skin's natural moisturizing factor, which is why its salts are used as humectants.