Skip to content
What is Polyglutamic Acid?
Polyglutamic acid is taking the skincare industry by storm. It’s one of the hottest ingredients due to its versatility and effectiveness!
It’s a powerful humectant that is a game-changer for those who suffer from dry, dehydrated skin. Its gentle and nontoxic properties allow it to seamlessly fit into your existing skincare regimen.
Want to know what the hype is all about? Keep reading to find out more!
What is Polyglutamic Acid?
Polyglutamic acid, aka PGA, is a protein comprised of multiple glutamic acid molecules linked together. Glutamic acid is a water-soluble amino acid used to form proteins in our bodies.
Used in skincare, PGA is a powerhouse humectant that can retain approximately 5,000 times its weight in water and keep the skin hydrated. Humectants are an absolute must ingredient in your skincare regimen!
After application, they continue to work throughout the day, drawing moisture from the atmosphere and deep into the skin. Humectants will also prevent water from escaping too quickly from the acid mantle, also referred to as the skin’s moisture barrier.
Polyglutamic acid has been used in the medical field for years in drug delivery systems and biological glue. It’s highly regarded because it is a low-hazard and nontoxic ingredient, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
Now it’s taking the skincare industry by storm and is becoming even more popular due to its ability to provide the skin and body with a vast array of benefits when applied topically.
Where Does Polyglutamic Acid Come From?
Unlike Hyaluronic Acid, Polyglutamic Acid is not produced naturally by the body. However, it is a naturally occurring polymer that forms through fermentation - just in soybeans!
It was first discovered in East Asia from a traditional food called nattō - fermented soybeans. It’s not the only discovery linked to fermented food and drink! Pitera, SK-II’s patented skincare ingredient, was discovered through careful research of sake production.
PGA exists in two forms: alpha polyglutamic acid and gamma polyglutamic acid. Alpha polyglutamic acid is chemically synthesized in a lab, whereas the latter is created naturally through fermentation using Bacillus strains.
Dermalogica Circular Hydration SerumWhat Can Polyglutamic Acid Do For My Skin?
Because polyglutamic acid is gentle and hydrating, it’s perfect for any skin type that requires some deep hydration. However, it is most beneficial for individuals looking for age-delaying products that restore moisture and elasticity to the skin.
Instant Hydration
PGA is a powerhouse humectant that can retain approximately 5,000 times its weight in water and keep the skin hydrated. Humectants are an absolute must-have ingredient in your skincare regimen!
After application, they continue to work throughout the day, drawing moisture from the atmosphere and deep into the skin. Humectants will also prevent water from escaping too quickly from the acid mantle, also referred to as the skin’s moisture barrier!
Reduces Dryness and Sensitivity
Because PGA deeply hydrates the skin, it will help reduce any redness and sensitivity caused by dehydration! When your skin lacks hydration, it increases your chances of injury and makes it difficult for the skin to heal itself.
PGA’s gentle nature also makes it great to use with more potent active ingredients that may increase the skin’s sensitivity, such as vitamin C, retinol, and other exfoliating acids.
Dr. Jart+ Dermask Water Jet Soothing Hydra SolutionIncreases Skin’s Elasticity and Firmness
PGA is unique because it also protects the skin’s natural reserves of hyaluronic acid, HA, from breaking down. The degradation of hyaluronic acid in the skin is one of the most significant factors in aging. The protection and increase of the skin’s natural moisturising factors result in a gradual increase in the skin’s moisture levels, elasticity, and overall firmness.
Dr. Jart+ Dermask Intra Jet Wrinkless SolutionHow Can I Incorporate Polyglutamic Acid Into My Skincare Regimen?
It’s easy to incorporate polyglutamic acid into your skincare regimen! Because it’s currently the hottest active ingredient on the market, it can be found in all formulations from serums, creams, face masks, and makeup primers! To obtain the most significant results from PGA, we recommend using a multitude of products to boost your skin’s hydration levels.
Can I Use Polyglutamic Acid With Other Active Ingredients?
Absolutely! It’s recommended that you use it with other active ingredients! Because PGA is very gentle, it will play nicely with other actives and won’t interfere with their interaction with your skin.
It will work well with any skincare products, but here are our favourite combinations!
Polyglutamic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid
PGA and hyaluronic acid are a dream duo! Hyaluronic acid will intensely hydrate the skin, while PGA will serve as a booster, increasing the moisture level and preventing it from escaping the skin! The result is hydrated, plump, and smooth skin.
Dr. Irena Eris Aquality Water Serum ConcentratePolyglutamic Acid and Retinol
PGA is great to use if you’re starting your journey with retinol because it will mitigate the excessive dryness that you may experience as your skin adjusts!
The most important thing to remember when using retinol products is that you may experience increased sensitivity and exasperated dryness. Follow up with a rich cream to relieve any discomfort.
Dr. Irena Eris Aquality Hyper-Hydrating Recovery CreamGive Your Skin a Tall Drink of Water!
PGA is taking the skincare industry by storm – and for a good reason! This powerhouse ingredient is a game-changer and will fit seamlessly into your existing skincare regimen.
Now that you know what the hype is all about, it’s time to treat your skin to some of the best skin care on the market!
Or, if you're trying to create a skincare routine in the first place, try our skin analysis. This beginner-friendly skin quiz helps to identify your skin type and create a skincare routine just for you.
Products Mentioned:
