Zinc PCA is a water-soluble cosmetic ingredient combining zinc with PCA (Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid). It is particularly suited to formulations for oily, blemish-prone and combination skin, as well as scalp-care products.
This cosmetic-grade Zinc PCA is supplied as a white crystalline powder. It is easy to incorporate into the aqueous phase of cosmetic formulations and is suitable for toners, essences, serums, gels, leave-on lotions, cleansers, shampoos and scalp-care formulations.
Key Benefits
- Ideal for oily, combination and blemish-prone skincare formulations
- Suitable for scalp and hair-care formulations
- Water-soluble and easy to incorporate into the aqueous phase
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Compatible with Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid and Panthenol
- Suitable for a wide range of leave-on and rinse-off cosmetic applications
Recommended Usage
0.1–1.0%, depending on application:
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Toner / Essence: 0.1–0.5%
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Serum / Gel / Leave-on Lotion: 0.2–1.0%
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Cleanser / Shampoo / Scalp Care: 0.1–0.5%
How to Use
Zinc PCA is water-soluble and also soluble in glycerin and propylene glycol. It is insoluble in the oil phase.
Add to the water phase and dissolve fully in water or a suitable glycol before emulsification. For heated formulations, preferably incorporate during the cooling phase at ≤50–60°C. The ingredient is stable below 60°C; prolonged heating above 70°C is not recommended.
Recommended Formulation pH: 4.5–6.5
Avoid formulating above pH 7.0, as zinc hydroxide precipitation may occur.
Compatibility
Compatible with Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol, Niacinamide, most humectants, and common non-ionic and anionic surfactants.
Avoid high concentrations of phosphates, carbonates, strong chelating agents and highly alkaline raw materials, as zinc salt precipitation may occur.
Technical Information
INCI: Zinc PCA
CAS No.: 15454-75-8
Appearance: White crystalline powder
Solubility: Water-soluble
Optimal Formulation pH: 4.5–6.5
Grade: Cosmetic Grade
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture, heat and direct light. Keep the packaging tightly sealed. Avoid storage alongside strong acids, alkalis and oxidising materials.
For cosmetic formulation use only. Not for direct consumption.
Certificate of Analysis (COA) VIEW PDF
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) VIEW PDF
