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Zinc PCA

Zinc PCA
Also known as: Zinc L-PCA · Zinc Pyroglutamate
Oil controlAcne-fightingSoothing

A sebum-regulating zinc salt that tackles oiliness and acne without drying the skin.

Skin types
Oily, Combination
Pore-clogging
Non-comedogenic
Use when
AM & PM
Concentration
0.5–1%
What it does

Zinc PCA is the zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA), a natural moisturising factor found in skin. It combines the sebum-regulating, anti-androgenic, and antibacterial properties of zinc with the humectant and skin-identical benefits of PCA. It reduces 5-alpha reductase activity (an enzyme involved in sebum production), making it notably effective for oily skin management without the drying effects of zinc alone.

Benefits
  • Regulates sebum production and reduces shine
  • Inhibits 5-alpha reductase to address hormonal drivers of oiliness
  • Antibacterial action against acne-causing bacteria
  • Maintains hydration levels through PCA's humectant properties
  • Reduces acne and blackhead formation
How to layer
☀️ Morning routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
SPF
🌙 Evening routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
Face Oil
After toning, before moisturiser
Good for
Oily skinCombination skinAcne-prone skin
How to use

Apply morning and/or evening in a serum or moisturiser. Particularly effective as a targeted treatment for the T-zone.

Typical concentration: 0.5–1%