Zinc PCA, or zinc salt, is a natural ally known for reducing blemishes. Incorporated into a good number of purifying treatments, it significantly improves the skin's appearance. 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 containing 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 within 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 included in skincare formulations 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 zinc and PCA alloy (L-pyrrolidone carboxylic acid), used as anactive moisturising ingredient. It is known to be non-sensitising and gentle, thus suitable for sensitive skin. The role of PCA is also toenhance 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 possesses 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. Furthermore, 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 blemishes.
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 containing 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.
Specifically 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 (otherwise known as blackheads). It also helps to combat the bacteria involved in acne.
Due to its content of sebum-regulating and antibacterial actives, ourpurifying face creammade from 4% zinc PCA and bamboo extract is ideal for moderating sebum secretion, achieving a refined skin texture, and preventing the appearance of unsightly blackheads. It should be applied daily to clean, dry skin and over yourface 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 prolong the wear of tinted skincare products. It also includes 0.1% ofhyaluronic 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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