Potassium PCA

AKA: Potassium 5-oxo-L-prolinate, 4810-50-8, Potassium pidolate, KALIDONE, L-Proline, Monopotassium salt, POTASSIUM L-PYROGLUTAMATE
Synthetic
Humectant
Clean
OriginPotassium PCA is synthesized from pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA), a compound derived from amino acids or produced through organic synthesis. It is manufactured by neutralizing PCA with potassium hydroxide to form the potassium salt.
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that PCA (i.e., 2-pyrrolidone-5-carboxylic acid), calcium PCA, magnesium PCA, potassium PCA, and sodium PCA are safe in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentration described in this safety assessment. PCA and its salts should not be used in cosmetic products in which N-nitroso compounds can be formed.
Formula
C5H6KNO3
Mol. Weight
167.20
CAS #
4810-50-8
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Humectant
A moisture magnet. Pulls water from the air and deeper skin layers up to the surface to keep skin plump and hydrated.
Locks In Moisture
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.005–0.75%
Rinse-off0.013–0.085%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2014 survey
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR