Zinc PCA, or zinc salt, is a natural ally known for reducing blemishes. Incorporated into a variety of purifying treatments, it significantly improves the appearance of the skin. Let's explore its effects on imperfections together.
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Zinc PCA, an active ingredient to combat skin imperfections.
Summary
- What is Zinc PCA?
- Zinc, a solution for acne-free skin
- Typology skincare products based on zinc PCA
- Source
Published November 22, 2022,
updated on July 3, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
6 min read
What is Zinc PCA?
Present in low levels in the body, zinc is a trace element that plays a crucial role in the activity of several enzymes. It is involved in DNA synthesis, ensures the production of certain proteins, and contributes to the balance of cognitive functions. A zinc deficiency would exacerbate inflammatory phenomena.
Significant amounts of zinc can also be found in meat, as well as in certain plants after fermentation, such as beetroot. In dermocosmetics, the zinc is used in skin care products in various forms, such as the zinc oxide, the zinc gluconate or the zinc PCA which is the subject of this article.
Zinc PCA is a compound of zinc and PCA (L-pyrrolidone carboxylic acid), used as anactive moisturizing ingredient. It is known to be non-sensitizing and gentle, thus suitable for sensitive skin. PCA also plays a role inenhancing the absorption of zinc into the skin, while promoting its hydration.
Zinc, a solution for acne-free skin.
The zinc is a trace element that has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and healing properties that are very beneficial for acne. Indeed, it inhibits the growth of Propionobacterium acnes, which is the bacteria primarily responsible for this skin condition. In addition, zinc reduces the activity of the sebaceous glands due to its anti-androgenic activity. Thus, it helps to regulate the production of sebum and thereby prevents imperfections.
Note : the zinc ingested through diet or dietary supplements is also relevant for regulating the excess sebum characteristic of oily skin. Thus, if you have oily skin, consume foods rich in zinc, such as oysters (the food highest in zinc), eggs, whole grains, legumes, and oilseeds.
Typology skincare products based on zinc PCA.
We have developed various treatments to limit excess sebum and mattify oily skin.
The purifying cleansing gel contains 2% zinc PCA combined with bamboo extract (INCI name: Phyllostachys Bambusoides Extract). The bamboo naturally contains porous particles, which absorb excess sebum on the skin. This high absorption capacity helps to reduce skin shine. Therefore, this compound is particularly recommended for combination to oily skin types.
Specially designed for oily skin, the matifying serum is concentrated in zinc PCA, in azelaic acid (10%) of plant origin; as well as in organic bamboo extract to reduce excess sebum. Of plant origin, the azelaic acid is known for its anti-comedogenic and anti-bacterial effects. Indeed, this molecule acts to unclog pores and reduce the formation of open comedones (also known as blackheads). It also helps to combat the bacteria involved in acne.
Due to its content of sebum-regulating and antibacterial actives, our purifying face cream made with 4% zinc PCA and bamboo extract is ideal for moderating sebum secretion, refining skin texture, and preventing the appearance of unsightly blackheads. It should be applied daily to clean, dry skin over your face serum, using small circular movements during application until the cream is fully absorbed. However, this cream is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women due to the essential oils it contains.
Formulated without talc, silicones, and nanoparticles, our translucent mattifying loose powder targets shiny and oily skin. A true hybrid product between skincare and makeup, it contains up to 1% of zinc PCA. This element helps to absorb excess sebum for an immediate and lasting matte finish, thus helping to extend the wear of tinted treatments. It also includes 0.1% of hyaluronic acid (INCI name: Sodium Hyaluronate): this hygroscopic compound can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it a powerful skin care ingredient for instant hydration.
Source
KERI J. E. & al. The role of zinc in the treatment of acne: A review of the literature. Dermatology Therapy (2017).
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