Humectant and Fermentation-Derived Polymer
Sodium Polyglutamate
Moisture-retaining, skin-smoothing, plumping
Key Benefits
- Binds water at the skin surface
- Forms a lightweight conditioning film
- Improves temporary smoothness and plumpness
- Complements other humectants
How It Works
Ingredient Details
INCI Name: Sodium Polyglutamate
Ingredient Type: Fermentation-derived polymer humectant
Best For
All skin types · Dehydrated skin · Dry skin · Oily skin seeking non-greasy hydration · Layered humectant routines
Research
View Ingredient Research →What It Is
What It Does
Sodium Polyglutamate FAQs
Common questions about this ingredient in skincare.
Is Sodium Polyglutamate an exfoliating acid?
No. It is a moisture-binding polymer and film former, not an alpha hydroxy acid or beta hydroxy acid. It does not exfoliate by loosening dead surface cells.
How is it different from hyaluronic acid?
Both are polymeric humectants, but they have different chemical structures, molecular-weight ranges, film properties, and sensory profiles. They are often combined rather than treated as direct substitutes.
Can Sodium Polyglutamate be used every day?
Yes, it is generally suitable for daily use in a properly formulated product. Follow the directions for the complete formula and pair it with a moisturizer if skin remains dry.
Does it hold more water than hyaluronic acid?
Marketing comparisons often depend on a particular test method, molecular weight, and laboratory condition. It is more accurate to say that both bind water effectively and their real-world performance depends on the finished formula.
Is Sodium Polyglutamate suitable for oily skin?
Its lightweight water-binding character can work well for oily or combination skin that is also dehydrated. Whether a product feels heavy or clogs pores depends on the entire formula.
Is the research clinical?
The linked study used keratinocytes and a reconstructed-skin model rather than a large human clinical trial. It supports a plausible hydration and barrier mechanism but does not establish every claimed consumer outcome.
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Products Featuring Sodium Polyglutamate
