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Polyglutamic Acid: does it work, and at what %?
Polyglutamic Acid is one of the actives we grade on evidence, not marketing. The benefit is real — but only when the dose clears the threshold the research supports. Here's the number, and the products that actually hit it.
The verdict: A microbial biopolymer humectant that forms a water-trapping film on skin; a clinical study found 0.2% polyglutamic acid gave moisturizing effects superior to 5% glycerol, with typical use levels of 0.1-1%.
How we grade Polyglutamic Acid
We check the disclosed concentration against the effective threshold from peer-reviewed dermatology literature and regulatory monographs, then weigh the formulation and any product-specific study. The grade is computed from the open rubric — re-run it on any ingredient list and you get the same letter. Also labeled as PGA, Poly-gamma-glutamic acid, Polyglutamate.
1 graded product with an effective dose of Polyglutamic Acid
Common questions
What concentration of Polyglutamic Acid is effective?
On Visage Theory's rubric, Polyglutamic Acid reaches an effective dose at 0.2% and a strong, research-backed dose at 1%. Below that, the labeled benefit is unlikely no matter how good the marketing is.
Is more Polyglutamic Acid always better?
Not necessarily — past the effective range you mostly add irritation risk, not benefit. What matters is clearing the threshold in a stable formula, which is exactly what our grade checks.
How do I know a product actually contains an effective dose of Polyglutamic Acid?
Most brands list the active but hide the concentration. When the dose isn't disclosed we can't confirm efficacy, so we withhold a grade rather than guess. Products that disclose an effective dose are graded and listed below.
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