Polyglutamic acid is a new active ingredient in skin care that increases the level of moisture, improves the skin barrier, and fights aging

A better alternative to Hyaluronic Acid to enhance skin health is the Polyglutamic Acid made through a fermentation process with bacteria.

PGA or polyglutamate or Polyglutamic Acid is a polyamino acid that dissolves in water. It is made by microbial fermentation using a special structure of molecules and glutamic acid units connected with peptide bonds between groups of amino and carboxyl groups.

This natural polymer is being increasingly used in the skin care market because it is multifunctional and can be used to fight dehydration and aging.

Polyglutamic Acid Perks: More Than Just Simple Hydration

Synthetic polyglutamic acid is not selective in relation to the moisture. It can hold 5000 times its weight of water and hence can match the renowned hydrator; hyaluronic acid. In the case when it is in a serum or a skin lotion, it creates a thin film that is breathable. The film minimizes the amount of water that evaporates and maintains the skin in a soft state for a long time. Polyglutamic acid is recommended to dry, sensitive or at times sunburnt skin.

PGA not only moisturizes but also helps to heal the skin and reinforce the protective barrier. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that it enhances the replacement of skin cells, which helps to heal injuries (e.g. acne scars or minor irritation). It also enhances two critical barrier proteins – filaggrin and involucrin – to improve the outer skin layer. It reinforces the skin against aggressors, such as pollution and intense sunshine, and reduces skin irritation. This is the reason why many mild but potent skin products contain it.

Polyglutamic acid also gives anti-aging effects by fighting free radicals, which are a big cause of oxidative stress and photoaging. By fighting these toxic molecules, it can reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, and maintain the elasticity and firmness of the skin over time. PGA is not harsh like anti-aging ingredients and is applicable to all skin types, including the mature skin or sensitive skin.

Polyglutamic acid vs Hyaluronic acid: A distinct advantage

When it comes to polyglutamic acid vs. skin acid, then it offers very distinct advantages to the modern consumer. Hyaluronic acid retains 1,000 times its weight in water, yet the water retention of the PGA is 5 times higher, leading to longer retention of water. Additionally, it is a film-forming characteristic of PGA, which produces a stronger moisture barrier as compared to the moisture barrier of hyaluronic acid, which can be applied several times to sustain its output. PGA-based solutions can be used by individuals who have dry skin that needs to be relieved in an immediate and long-term manner. Polyglutamic acid has advantages in the modern skin care applications compared to hyaluronic acid.

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Polyglutamic Acid Serum

The concentration of the serum should be between 1-2% since this would be sufficient to make your skin smooth and not irritate. Thicker ones are not required every day. The polyglutamic acid is non-allergenic and, therefore, can be combined with other active ingredients. Among other ingredients to seek are calming ingredients such as Centella asiatica or protective vitamins such as vitamin C.

Skin Care Options

Individuals having oily skin or those prone to acne should use oil-free, light serums. Dry skin types can benefit from the use of PGA with Ceramides or Squalane as it gives moisture.

According to Elena Marquez, Polyglutamic acid is a paradigm shift in the skin care procedures since it is based on natural intelligent elements. Polyglutamic acid is a product that has the ability to deeply moisturize the skin, restore the skin barrier and combat aging without irritating the skin, hence it is a multi-purpose product for various skin concerns.

As more people are demanding high-efficiency mild skincare, polyglutamic acid has continued to gain strength as a must-ingredient. When used in serums and moisturizers or masks, the scientific benefits of this product are changing what clients perceive of hydrating and anti-aging products.