Zinc Pyrrolidone Carboxylate: All-in-One Solution for Hydration, Oil Control, and Acne Care

Zinc pyrrolidone carboxylate (Zinc PCA, CAS: 15454-75-8) is an active ingredient frequently found in skincare products, celebrated for its diverse benefits for the skin. As the zinc salt of L-pyrrolidonecarboxylic acid (L-PCA), it possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and sebum-regulating properties, making it particularly effective for oily and acne-prone skin.

 

Zinc PCA offers a wide range of skincare benefits. In oil-control cleansers, it effectively cleanses and regulates sebum production. In anti-acne essences, its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help diminish acne and blackheads. Additionally, in moisturizing lotions and matte creams, Zinc PCA balances hydration, reduces shine, and imparts a refreshing, comfortable matte finish to the skin. This ingredient is an ideal addition to various skincare formulations.

 

CAS No.: 15454-75-8

Molecular formula: C10H12N2O6Zn

Molecular weight: 321.5

EINECS number: 239-473-5

 

 

 

Effects of Zinc PCA

 

Moisturizing Function

Zinc PCA functions as a humectant, creating a protective barrier on the skin's surface that locks in moisture and prevents evaporation. This keeps the skin soft and smooth, providing a refreshed feel.

 

Sebum Regulation

Zinc PCA effectively controls excessive sebum production, crucial for preventing pore blockage and acne formation. It achieves this by inhibiting the enzyme 5α-reductase, thereby regulating oil levels.

 

Prevention of Clogged Pores

Thanks to its oil-controlling properties, Zinc PCA helps prevent pore clogging, reducing the likelihood of acne and other skin issues. It is gentle and non-irritating, making it suitable for therapeutic lotions and conditioning products aimed at oily skin.

 

Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties

The zinc component in Zinc PCA exhibits strong anti-inflammatory effects, which not only help prevent acne but also combat bacterial and fungal infections. This broadens its application in skincare, hair care, sunscreens, and cosmetics.

 

For Cosmetics

Zinc PCA is particularly beneficial in products designed for oily and acne-prone skin, including anti-dandruff shampoos, acne treatment creams, makeup products, bath gels, sunscreens, and repair creams. It provides a soft, refreshing feel and has anti-wrinkle properties.

 

 

Daily Chemical Applications

 

Zinc pyrrolidone carboxylate (Zinc PCA) has long been valued in cosmetics for its excellent astringent and antibacterial properties. One significant aspect of skin aging is the decline of collagen in the dermis, especially with prolonged UV exposure. This process is exacerbated by cumulative UVA exposure, triggering factors closely related to skin photoaging. Recent studies indicate that Zinc PCA can inhibit UVA-induced activation of activator protein-1 (AP-1) and significantly reduce the production of matrix metalloproteinase-1, thereby slowing collagen degradation in photoaged skin. Furthermore, Zinc PCA promotes the synthesis of type I collagen by upregulating the expression of ascorbic acid transporter mRNA SVCT2.

 

Zinc PCA can be formulated into various cosmetics and external skin treatments, including oils, lotions, creams, foundations, gels, shampoos, conditioners, lipsticks, powders, ointments, and more.

 

 

Cosmetic Examples

 

Estée Lauder Radiance 2-in-1 Cleanser features Zinc PCA, an active ingredient that serves as both a humectant and an astringent. This formulation hydrates the skin, regulates oil production, and tightens pores. The primary benefits of Zinc PCA in this product include moisturizing, oil control, and astringency, resulting in a refreshed and healthy appearance for the skin.

 

Centennial Zhang's Soothing Essence incorporates Zinc PCA, recognized as a low-risk ingredient. It also contains a blend of other components, including ethanol as a solvent, butylene glycol and dipropylene glycol for hydration, niacinamide for its moisturizing, antioxidant, anti-glycation, and firming properties, as well as betaine and 1,2-hexanediol as additional moisturizers. Menthol is included for its cooling effect, while lactic acid serves as both a moisturizer and pH adjuster.

 

Caisy Oil Control Cleansing Milk contains Zinc PCA as its active ingredient. This product is enriched with glycerin and 1,2-hexanediol to provide deep moisture retention. It also features disodium lauryl sulfosuccinate, sodium cocoyl glycinate, and lauramidopropyl betaine as cleansing agents and surfactants, which work synergistically to thoroughly cleanse the skin.

 

Boben Curcumin Oil Control Soothing Essence Water is an essence product that combines oil control, soothing properties, and multiple skincare benefits. Its key ingredient, Zinc PCA, enhances the skincare experience with its superior moisturizing and oil-controlling abilities. Additionally, the formulation includes various high-efficiency ingredients such as butylene glycol, glycerin, and 1,2-hexanediol to deeply nourish and retain moisture for extended periods. Sodium hyaluronate and cross-linked sodium hyaluronate polymers work together to create a robust moisturizing and repairing network, providing deep nourishment and protection for the skin.

 

 

Reference:

 

1. Y Takino , et al. Zinc l-pyrrolidone carboxylate inhibits the UVA-induced production of matrix metalloproteinase-1 by in vitro cultured skin fibroblasts, whereas it enhances their collagen synthesis. International Journal Of Cosmetic Science (2012)

2. Keiji Iwasaki, et al. Composition for treating inflammation which contains zinc pyrrolidonecarboxylate. mag（2005）