Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan

Polyglutamic Acid

Poly-gamma-glutamic acid / PGA / Gamma-PGA

Safety Notes

Large polypeptide; water-retention capacity claimed superior to hyaluronic acid (4000x its weight); film-forming on skin surface; reduces TEWL; supports microbiome; well-tolerated; vegan; popular in Korean cosmetics

Function & Common Use

Function

Humectant / Film Former / Skin Conditioning

Category

Humectant

Common In

Hydrating serums moisturisers K-beauty products

Origin

Biotechnological (Bacillus subtilis fermentation)

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No limit

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Polyglutamic Acid safe to use in skincare?

Polyglutamic Acid has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Large polypeptide; water-retention capacity claimed superior to hyaluronic acid (4000x its weight); film-forming on skin surface; reduces TEWL; supports microbiome; well-tolerated; vegan; popular in Korean cosmetics

Is Polyglutamic Acid allowed in India?

Polyglutamic Acid is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.

What is Polyglutamic Acid used for in cosmetics?

Polyglutamic Acid functions as: Humectant / Film Former / Skin Conditioning. It is commonly found in: Hydrating serums moisturisers K-beauty products.

TCS Assessment
Low Concern
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted
Australia (TGA)
Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made
Canada (NHPID)
Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CAS25513-46-6
ECN/A

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