What does PCA do in skincare?

PCA functions as a humectant, moisturising agent in cosmetic formulas.

Is PCA allowed in cosmetics?

Yes, but it is regulated in the EU — it appears in a Cosmetics Regulation annex with usage conditions.

What products contain PCA?

It is most commonly found in Skincare products, especially toners (14.8% of its uses).

PCA

PCA is a cosmetic ingredient used as a humectant, moisturising agent. It is used in 283 products in our dataset. It is regulated in the EU (listed in a Cosmetics Regulation annex). PubMed carries 1,749 studies of its skin or topical use.

INCI name	PCA
Function	HUMECTANT, MOISTURISING
CAS number	98-79-3
EC number	202-700-3
Prevalence	283 products (0.3% of dataset)
Most used in	Skincare
EU status	Restricted (annex )
Scientific studies	1,749 on PubMed (skin/cosmetic/topical)
Monthly searches	74,000

Used in

Frequently asked

What does PCA do in skincare?: PCA functions as a humectant, moisturising agent in cosmetic formulas.
Is PCA allowed in cosmetics?: Yes, but it is regulated in the EU — it appears in a Cosmetics Regulation annex with usage conditions.
What products contain PCA?: It is most commonly found in Skincare products, especially toners (14.8% of its uses).

Manufacturers with experience using PCA

Match with vetted US contract manufacturers that have hands-on experience formulating with this ingredient.