Common Name(s): Polyglyceryl-3 pca,polyglyceryl-3 pca,polyglyceryl nmf humectant,multi-oh water binder
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides enhanced nmf-compatible humectancy from pca pyroglutamic acid's water-binding carboxylate groups amplified by the three-glycerol backbone's hydroxyl groups.
Why It's Used: Polyglyceryl-3 pca is selected for amplified nmf humectancy โ the polyglyceryl backbone adds three glycerol-equivalent hydroxyl groups to pca's carboxylate water-binding, providing superior water retention versus free pca while the polyglyceryl carrier meets ecocert-approvable natural-origin criteria.
How It Works: Polyglyceryl-3 pca: pca carboxylate + 3-glycerol oh groups โ combined h-bond water retention network โ superior tewl reduction vs equivalent free pca + glycerol combination.
Typically Found In: Moisturiser,nmf formulas
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient โ humectant
Secondary Functions: Moisture retention,hydration
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%โ5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Conditional - feedstock declaration required
Halal Status: Unverified - feedstock declaration required (plant, animal and petrochemical routes all exist)
Source Notes: Plant-derived or fermentation-produced. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: origin-dependent: the same inci exists in plant, animal and petrochemical versions and the name does not discriminate. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 โ non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; suitable for sensitive skin.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Ceramides,emollients,occlusives,barrier actives
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Polyglyceryl pca provides a natural-origin alternative to the petro-derived sodium pca โ the polyglyceryl carrier ensuring ecocert and cosmos certification compatibility.
Last Verified: 2026-03-22
Primary Sources: Cosing database,polyglyceryl-3 pca nmf humectant natural origin review