A number of documents describe the usefulness of the pyroglutamic acid radical (also known as Sodium PCA). This usefulness is most seen in the area of dermatology and cosmetics, and is specially backed-up by the fact that the sodium salt of pyroglutamic acid prevents dehydration of the skin and makes it soft, supple and elastic.
Sodium PCA is an organically expressed component of human skin and a part of the “natural moisturizing factors” (NMF) that maintain skin healthy. Sodium PCA is highly hygroscopic, attracting moisture from the air. It imparts a moist sensation to hair and skin. Sodium PCA applied to the skin is absorbed to a determined extent. It is non-comedogenic, non-irritating to the eyes and skin — even at concentrations up to 50%, and does not contribute to phototoxicity or sensitization. It is quickly biodegradable. Soluble in water and alcohol and insoluble in oils, it is used for its strong humectant properties in many health and beauty solutions including lipsticks, shampoos, creams, gels, lotions, conditioners and foundations.
One of the main elements in maintaining skin healthy is making sure the composition of the epidermis (outer layer of skin) is intact. That composition is determined and composed by skin cells that are held together by the intercellular matrix. The intercellular matrix is the “cement” or “mortar” between skin cells that keep them united. It helps avoid individual skin cells from losing water and creates the smooth, non-flaky look of healthy, flawless skin. The components that do this are often called natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) or ingredients that imitate the structure and function of healthy skin. While the oil and fat components of skin avoid evaporation and confer lubrication to the surface of skin, it is really the intercellular matrix along with the skin’s lipid content that confers skin a good part of its surface texture and feel.
The intercellular matrix is the skin’s first line of defense against water loss. When the lipid and NMF load of skin is reduced, we notice fine lines, surface roughness, flaking, and a tight, incommodious feeling. The longer the skin’s surface layer (stratum corneum) is altered, the less effective the skin’s intercellular matrix becomes. Moreover, the skin’s healing mechanism is impaired. All of the skin’s supporting NMFs and lipids are present in the intercellular spaces of the epidermis, both between skin cells and in the lipid content on the surface of skin. When any of these elements are used in skin-care products, they appear to help stabilize and maintain this intricate intercellular-skin matrix. More important, all of these components, and many others, can help support the intercellular area of the skin by keeping it flawless. This support aids avoid surface irritation from penetrating deeper into the skin, works to maintain bacteria out, and aids the skin’s immune/healing mechanism. Selecting moisturizers of any kind with NMFs (whether they are labeled as being serums, lotions, antiwrinkle, antiaging, or sunscreens) allows your skin to do its job of repairing and rejuvenating itself without the difficulties brought on when skin is suffering from dryness and excessive irritation.
Recover and maintain your skin’s hydration and tone using our natural skin care solution, designed to nourish your skin while at the same time gets rid of all types of blemishes and scars.
- Angelique Jodein