Common Name(s): Sodium polygamma-glutamate crosspolymer,crosslinked gamma-pga,hydrogel mask active
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Forms water-swollen biopolymer gel holding up to 500x dry weight as liquid without drip — providing extreme skin hydration from hydrogel masks while the crosslinked structure prevents the stickiness associated with linear gamma-pga solutions.
Why It's Used: Crosslinking gamma-pga creates a shape-retaining hydrogel from 5,000x water retention capacity — a no-drip, high-water-content structure ideal for sheet mask applications that would run with linear polymer solutions.
How It Works: Crosslinks between gamma-pga chains create an insoluble but highly water-swellable network. donnan osmotic pressure from the dense polyanionic charge drives swelling; crosslinks prevent complete dissolution providing structural integrity. the hydrogel can hold up to 99% water while maintaining dimensional stability for sheet mask self-support.
Typically Found In: Hydrogel masks,high-intensity hydration,sheet masks
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient – humectant
Secondary Functions: Tewl reduction,skin plumping
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Synthetic or naturally derived. excellent aqueous solubility.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; suitable for all skin types.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Ceramides,emollients,occlusives,glycerin,hyaluronic acid
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Hydrogel mask mechanism: crosslinked gamma-pga hydrogel at 99% water content releases moisture continuously during 20-minute application — the donnan osmotic pressure gradient drives water migration from gel to slightly drier skin surface providing superior hydration delivery versus conventional cotton or fibre mask sheets.
Last Verified: 2026-03-12
Primary Sources: Cosing database,sodium polygamma-glutamate crosspolymer hydrogel review