Zinc PCA (CAS 68107-75-5; INCI: Zinc PCA), the zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, has become one of the fastest-rising cosmetic actives of 2026. Chinese new-product registration data ranked it the number-one surging functional ingredient in Q1 2026, and leading brands across Asia, Europe, and North America are now building oily-skin, acne-care, scalp, and deodorant lines around it. Supplied as a white crystalline, fully water-soluble powder, it disperses easily into clear gels, toners, and serums without pH or stability headaches.
How It Works
Zinc PCA acts through a dual mechanism. First, zinc ions help regulate sebum production by moderating 5-alpha-reductase activity, reducing the excess oil that drives midday shine, enlarged pores, and breakouts. Second, zinc provides broad antimicrobial support — inhibiting Cutibacterium acnes and odor-causing bacteria — while PCA, a natural component of the skin’s own moisturizing factor, binds water so the skin never feels stripped. The result is a rare active that mattifies without dehydrating, and it pairs cleanly with niacinamide, salicylic acid, and panthenol in multi-functional formulations.
Key Application Areas
- Oily and combination skin moisturizers: lightweight gels and lotions that keep shine under control throughout the day.
- Acne-care serums and spot treatments: antimicrobial sebum control with a low-irritation profile suitable for sensitive, breakout-prone skin.
- Pore-refining toners: visibly tighter pores and smoother texture in daily-use formats.
- Scalp care and anti-dandruff shampoos: sebum regulation for greasy scalp and flakes.
- Deodorants and body care: aluminum-free odor control through targeted antibacterial action.
VeraVita Supply
VeraVita Biotech supplies Zinc PCA at purity ≥99%, with COA and MSDS available on request, plus full OEM/ODM support for custom blends and finished-formula development. For bulk quotations, free samples, and lead times, contact info@veravitabio.com — our technical team responds within one business day.