Polygutamic Acid

Polyglutamic Acid (PGA)

Advanced biopolymer humectant delivering intense hydration, visible plumping, and a smooth, cushioned skin feel.

INCI Name: Polyglutamic Acid

Appearance: Off-white powder (hygroscopic)

Solubility: Water soluble

Function: Humectant, film-former, moisture retention, skin feel enhancer

Polyglutamic Acid is a naturally derived, high molecular weight biopolymer valued for its strong water-binding capacity and elegant sensory profile. In modern skincare, PGA is used to create “plump,” hydrated skin feel and to support long-lasting moisture retention in serums, gels, and emulsions.

For external cosmetic use only. Use within recommended ranges and validate stability in the finished formula.

What It Does

Polyglutamic Acid (PGA) is a film-forming humectant that helps skin hold onto water and feel immediately smoother and more cushioned. It is often used to enhance “instant hydration” perception, improve glide, and support a soft, plumped look without heaviness. PGA can also help improve the sensory feel of water-based formulas by adding silky slip and a refined finish.

Key Benefits

• Deep hydration support: Helps bind water and reduce the look of dehydration lines.
• Plump & cushion effect: Creates a smooth, hydrated skin feel with a soft film.
• Enhanced slip: Improves glide and reduces tackiness in watery formulas.
• Moisture retention: Helps support longer-lasting hydration over time.
• Texture upgrade: Improves the sensorial profile of serums, gels, and emulsions.

Suggested Use Level

• Typical use: 0.05–0.50%
• Rich / plumping gels: 0.30–1.00% (evaluate viscosity and feel)
• Add during cool-down (≤40 °C) where possible

How to Hydrate (Powder Handling)

• Pre-wet PGA in glycerin or propanediol (recommended) to prevent clumping.
• Slowly add the slurry into water with moderate mixing.
• Allow time to fully hydrate (typically 30–120 minutes depending on grade and concentration).
• For best clarity and feel, avoid high shear once hydrated (can reduce viscosity/film properties).

Formulation Guidelines

• Recommended finished-formula pH range: ~4.5–7.0.
• Compatible with hyaluronic acid, panthenol, betaine, niacinamide, ceramides, peptides, and most botanical extracts.
• Electrolytes and high salt loads can reduce viscosity/clarity; test in mineral-rich systems.
• Pairs well with hyaluronic acid for layered hydration and improved skin feel.

Common Applications

• Hydration serums and “plumping” essences
• After-sun and barrier-support gels
• Hydrating toners and ampoules
• Slip-enhancing face and body lotions
• Primer-like gel textures for “glass skin” finish

Precautions

• Avoid adding powder directly into water without pre-wetting (may clump).
• Do not overheat or hold at high temperature for extended periods.
• Always conduct stability testing in the final formula, especially in high-electrolyte systems.

PGA is hygroscopic. Keep the container tightly sealed and minimize exposure to humidity during weighing.

Documents

• Certificate of Analysis (COA)
• Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

Disclaimer

Supplied strictly as a cosmetic raw material. Not intended for direct application to the skin without proper formulation. Not a drug or medicinal ingredient. Not evaluated for therapeutic or pharmaceutical use. For use by trained formulators and manufacturers only.

Storage

• Store tightly closed in a cool, dry place.
• Protect from moisture (hygroscopic powder).
• Reseal promptly after use and use desiccant where appropriate.