Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

PCA ETHYL COCOYL ARGINATE.

Valuable CAS 95370-65-3 / ANTISTATIC, MOISTURISING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

PCA Ethyl Cocoyl Arginate is a versatile, cationic surfactant synthesized from L-Arginine, coconut fatty acids, and PCA (a natural moisturizing factor). This multi-functional ingredient offers gentle cleansing, conditioning, and moisturizing benefits, while also exhibiting targeted antimicrobial activity for skin and hair formulations.

Summary

antistatic moisturizing surfactant cleansing skin conditioning hair conditioning antimicrobial

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a cationic surfactant, PCA Ethyl Cocoyl Arginate efficiently lowers surface tension, facilitating the emulsification of oil and water and acting as an effective cleanser. Its unique structure enables it to provide significant conditioning, including antistatic and softening effects, particularly beneficial for hair. Furthermore, it demonstrates specific antimicrobial properties, notably against Propionibacterium Acnes at a pH below 7, making it relevant for blemish-prone skin. On the skin, it contributes to hydration, softening, and a soothing sensation.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Current research data does not indicate that PCA Ethyl Cocoyl Arginate is commonly used at sub-effective concentrations to misleadingly claim benefits, as specific efficacious concentrations are not widely publicized.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH ≤7
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient maintains stability in acidic environments, but its efficacy, particularly antimicrobial activity against Propionibacterium Acnes, is observed at pH levels below 7 and is neutralized in alkaline conditions. While generally stable, it is susceptible to oxidation and should not be combined with strong oxidants. It exhibits low solubility in water, less than 0.3% even with emulsifiers, and requires specific handling; it solidifies below 15°C and needs heating above 45°C to return to a liquid state for cosmetic incorporation.

Conflicts

  • strong oxidants

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

PCA Ethyl Cocoyl Arginate is generally considered mild, exhibiting very low irritation potential for skin and eyes, even at higher concentrations. While highly regarded for safety and rated low by EWG for common concerns such as cancer, allergies, and developmental toxicity, isolated instances of skin irritation in highly sensitive individuals have been reported. SkinSAFE confirms its '100 Free' and 'Irritant Free' status.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PCA Ethyl Cocoyl Arginate is a valuable, multi-beneficial ingredient, offering effective cleansing, conditioning, and targeted antimicrobial activity with a generally low risk of irritation across all skin types.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…