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LAURYL PCA.

Valuable CAS 22794-26-9 / HUMECTANT, SKIN CONDITIONING

Lauryl PCA is a multifunctional ester derived from PCA, a vital component of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor. It effectively enhances skin hydration and imparts softness, while also serving as a gentle yet efficient cleansing aid in formulations.

Humectant Skin Conditioning Emollient Secondary Tenside

Science

Lauryl PCA functions primarily as a humectant, actively drawing and retaining water within the skin to optimize hydration, mirroring the action of its parent compound, PCA. It simultaneously acts as an emollient, contributing to a smoother and softer skin texture. Furthermore, in cleansing formulations, it operates as a secondary tenside, reducing surface tension to create a rich lather and facilitate the removal of impurities without compromising the skin's essential moisture barrier.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 1–5%
Optimal

Maximum hydration observed at 5%, with significant moisturization evident at 1%.

Key findings

  1. 01 At 1% concentration, Lauryl PCA demonstrated an increase in moisturizing efficacy exceeding 25% when compared to untreated skin areas.
  2. 02 A 5% concentration achieved maximum skin hydration within 60 minutes of application, sustaining this hydrated state throughout the test duration. Its moisturizing efficacy was found to be comparable to sodium PCA across all tested concentrations.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The available research data does not indicate that Lauryl PCA is commonly 'dusted' or subject to widespread misuse regarding its concentration in formulations. Its recommended usage adheres to established safety guidelines.


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Lauryl PCA exhibits robust stability across a diverse range of pH environments.

Conflicts

  • N-nitrosating agents

Safety

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
3.0% (rinse-off) | 1.9% (face powders)%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that PCA and its salts, including Lauryl PCA, are safe for use in cosmetic formulations. A key restriction is their incompatibility with N-nitrosating agents. Maximum reported concentrations are 3.0% for rinse-off products and 1.9% for face powders. EWG Skin Deep assesses Lauryl PCA with a 'LOW' concern for potential cancer, allergies, immunotoxicity, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and use restrictions.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Valuable

Lauryl PCA is a valuable ingredient, offering both significant moisturizing benefits and gentle cleansing properties, making it versatile across a wide spectrum of cosmetic applications.


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