Polyglutamic Acid: Benefits, How To Use, And Side Effects

Polyglutamic acid (PGA) is the new skin care ingredient causing a stir in the beauty world. This super-duper moisturizing polypeptide has been branded the “new but better” hyaluronic acid. It is on its way to becoming the most popular skin hydrator in the skin care industry. But, is it truly superior to hyaluronic acid? What exactly is the truth about polyglutamic acid? Read on to learn all about this acid and how it can help you transform your skin.

What Is Polyglutamic Acid?

Polyglutamic acid is a naturally occurring polymer produced from soybeans fermented with Bacillus subtilis (1). It is formed when glutamic acid (a type of amino acid) molecules are linked together. Polyglutamic acid is the main ingredient in natto, traditional Japanese food prepared from fermented soybeans. It is water-soluble, non-toxic, and biodegradable and is often used as a thickener, biological glue, and humectant (1).

Trivia

Ivánovics and Bruckner discovered polyglutamic acid in 1937. They were sterilizing Bacillus anthracis, when a capsule was released from it into the medium.

Polyglutamic acid hydrates the skin and maintains its elasticity (2). You may wonder if PGA functions in the same manner as hyaluronic acid, what is the point of using it? Unlike hyaluronic acid, PGA does not occur naturally in your skin. However, it works better than hyaluronic acid. Here are the benefits it offers.

Benefits of Using Polyglutamic Acid

1. Provides Hydration

Research suggests that PGA has moisturizing effects and can maintain skin elasticity better than hyaluronic acid (HA) and collagen. Its water retention capacity is 10 times more than hyaluronic acid, and 0.2% of PGA holds the same amount of water as 5% glycerol (2). This means if you have dry and parched skin, PGA can easily quench its thirst better than HA.

2. Keeps The Skin Youthful

Well-hydrated skin stays plump and youthful. Polyglutamic acid can help in maintaining skin elasticity, which helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and keeps your skin youthful, soft, and supple. Products with PGA may have anti-aging effects on the skin (3).

While topical products will not reverse already existing signs of aging, moisturizing is crucial in achieving younger-looking skin. It’s because when your skin is dry, impurities and imperfections become more visible. On the other hand, when properly hydrated, lines and imperfections are less evident, giving your skin a smoother glow. However, there are many other ways, such as wearing sunscreen, drinking plenty of water, etc., by which you can have younger-looking skin.

3. Has Wound Healing Properties

Animal studies reveal that PGA can heal wounds by improving collagen production and blood vessel regeneration. It also increases the levels of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and beta-catenin proteins to speed up healing (4).

4. May Heal Skin Infections

Polyglutamic acid is effective against acne-causing bacteria S.aureus and the yeast Candida albicans that causes fungal infections like athlete’s foot, jock itch, diaper rash, and nail fungus (2).

Amelia Bell, a blogger, tried polyglutamic acid and shared her experience in a blog post. She says, “Just like Dr. Kemi advised, after adding my daily serum, moisturiser and SPF, I applied a few drops of my liquid foundation, which offers a lovely lightweight finish and Polyglutamic Acid onto my hand, mixing them together before applying directly onto my skin using my fingers. I thought that the two formulas might end up separating or pilling when applied on my skin but, in fact, they worked together like a dream. So much so, I simply followed up with some bronzer; my skin looked instantly plumped and dewy with signs of a little glow, and all without the hand of a highlighter or cream blusher (i)”.

Did You Know?

Jellyfish can survive in deep ocean areas with high pressure and salt content without drying out because of the polyglutamic acid present in their bodies.

Although polyglutamic acid has multiple benefits and seems better than hyaluronic acid, both should not be compared. Let’s understand why.

Polyglutamic Acid Vs. Hyaluronic Acid

PGA is indeed an excellent hydrating ingredient. It can absorb moisture up to 5000 times its weight, while hyaluronic acid, one of the most effective names in the skin care acid guide, holds 1000 times its weight in water. However, the water retention capacity of PGA may change as per the acidity and pH of the product (gel, cream, or lotion).

Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in your skin layers to keep it moisturized. Polyglutamic acid helps prevent hyaluronidase (an enzyme that degrades hyaluronic acid). In other words, applying PGA to your skin can prevent the breakdown of hyaluronic acid, keeping your skin hydrated for longer. It also creates a seal to prevent moisture loss.

While hyaluronic acid works within the skin layers to improve its hydration levels, polyglutamic acid stays on the skin surface to lock in moisture. Together, these ingredients can provide your skin with the ultimate punch of hydration.

Polyglutamic acid is not going to replace hyaluronic acid. Using both together can give the best effects. Now, let’s understand how you may use it.

How To Use Polyglutamic Acid And Who Can Use It?

Polyglutamic acid is best for dry and dehydrated skin. However, all skin types can use this ingredient for hydration. Polyglutamic acid is used as an ingredient in lotions, creams, gels, and serums. You may combine it with other ingredients like vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamin C, niacinamide, and peptides to keep your skin plump, bright, and visibly smoother. If you want to use it with hyaluronic acid then it’s best to apply them to slightly damp skin daily before bed. Also, you can use polyglutamic acid immediately after receiving a microneedling treatment, as the mico-injuries allow it to penetrate deeper into the skin.

Here is how you can use polyglutamic acid serum in the following ways:

• Polyglutamic Acid Serum

You can apply a few drops of polyglutamic acid serum to your clean face and neck. Gently pat it on your skin. Apply moisturizer and sunscreen during the day and just a moisturizer at night to keep the skin smooth and healthy.

• Polyglutamic Acid Cream

You can apply a small amount of polyglutamic acid to your face and neck after cleansing. The velvety texture of the cream may make your skin look healthy and youthful.

• Polyglutamic Acid Supplement

You may consume one polyglutamic acid supplement daily for optimal results. This powerhouse formula works from within to enhance hydration, diminish fine lines, and unveil radiant skin. Consult a medical professional before taking any supplements to avoid any side effects.

Does Polyglutamic Acid Have Any Side Effects?

Polyglutamic acid is suitable for all skin types. Rare, allergic reactions can occur with PGA and include redness, itch, blisters, rash and swelling. Before buying a product with PGA, check the ingredient list to ensure you are not allergic to any of the ingredients in the formula.

If you have sensitive skin and are new to this ingredient, a spot test on a discrete part of the body first and waiting 24 hours can help determine if you will have an allergic reaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can we apply polyglutamic acid to damp skin?

Yes, we may apply polyglutamic acid to damp skin to ensure it better helps seal skin moisture.

Can we use polyglutamic acid every day?

Yes, we can use polyglutamic acid twice every day.

Can we mix salicylic acid and polyglutamic acid?

No, we should not combine salicylic acid with any other acid. Combining these two ingredients may cause severe skin irritation.

Delve into the wonders of polyglutamic acid in this video! Discover its incredible hydrating properties, how it boosts skin elasticity, and why it is becoming a must-have in beauty routines worldwide. Check out the video now!

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Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Dr. Schwarzburg MD

 

Dr. Schwarzburg is a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City. He is an Ivy League school graduate with 7 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and regenerative medicine.

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Ramona SinhaEditor

 

Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.

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Anjali SayeeAssociate Editor

Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.

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Swathi ESenior Beauty & Lifestyle Writer

Swathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.

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