Polyglutamic Acid
Polymer of glutamic acid from Bacillus subtilis fermentation. Humectant with high water-holding capacity, several times that of hyaluronic acid in vitro.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Modern humectant with pilot clinical data on hydration.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Polyglutamic Acid (γ-PGA, PGA) is a polymer of glutamic acid, produced by Bacillus subtilis (natto) fermentation. Gives the same skin feel as hyaluronic acid with higher in vitro water-holding capacity – retains 5-10 times its weight in water (Lin 2002). Where applied. Serums, creams, masks (0.1-2%). More popular than hyaluronic acid in Japanese and Korean cosmetics – cheaper to produce, more stable. In Spain – Filorga, Sesderma, Indeed Labs Hydraluron+ (with PGA). Mechanism. Humectant: forms a thin hydrating film on the skin surface, retains moisture. Also stimulates the skin's own hyaluronic acid production in fibroblasts (Yokoi 2003). Evidence base. Ben-Zur (J Cosmet Sci 2008) and Yokoi (J Med Invest 2003) showed 30-45% moisturisation gains over 4 weeks at 0.5%. Effect comparable to hyaluronic acid. Less tacky in formula. Safety. CIR has not assessed separately, but the component is on the FDA GRAS list (as a food additive). Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Suitable in any product.
Frequently asked questions
Is Polyglutamic Acid safe during pregnancy?
Polyglutamic Acid is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Polyglutamic Acid for?
Polyglutamic Acid suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Polyglutamic Acid and what does it do in cosmetics?
Polymer of glutamic acid from Bacillus subtilis fermentation.
What's the INCI name for Polyglutamic Acid?
The INCI name is Polyglutamic Acid. It may also appear as: PGA.
See Polyglutamic Acid in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar in action
Explore by category
Ingredients in the same category
Polyglycerin-3, Polyglycerin-6, Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Tryptophan, Carapa Guaianensis Seed Oil, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Isosorbide Dicaprylate
Published: · updated: