Commonly known as: Polyglutamic acid (PGA), Poly-gamma-glutamic acid, Gum natto.
I.N.C.I. list name: Polyglutamic Acid.
Extraction process: Biosynthesis from L-glutamic acid using the Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis.
Source: Vegetable.
Botanical name: Glycine max (L.) Merr. (soybean).
Family: Poaceae.
Extracted part of the plant: Seeds.
Origin, provenance:
Chemical properties: Polymer consisting of D- and L-glutamic acid units; Water-soluble peptide; Molecular weight > 10 kDa and generally ranging from ~100 to > 1000 kDa.
Properties: Emulsion, colloidal solution, ionic solution, balm, suspension.
Required dosage in cosmetic products: From 0.3% to 3%.
Function: Skin care agent.
Specificities: Moisturizing, film-forming, humectant, lightening, plumping.
Benefits: All skin types but especially dry, dehydrated and dull skin; all hair types especially dry and dull hair.
Face care (moisturizing face creams, masks, serums, lip care, mists, lotions, sunscreens, eye contour creams);
Body care (creams, milks);
Hair care (shampoos, hair serums, masks);
Make-up (foundations).
Store away from light, moisture and heat.
In topical application, the polyglutamic acid is a safe active and particularly well tolerated by all the types of skin. It is nevertheless not recommended to use a care with a concentration of PGA higher than 3%, because an overdose can weaken the cutaneous fabrics and support the appearance of redness. Since it is an acid, a test in the hollow of the elbow is recommended before any use.