A number of documents describe the usefulness of the pyroglutamic acid radical (also known as Sodium PCA). This usefulness is most seen in the area of dermatology and cosmetics, and is specially backed-up by the fact that the sodium salt of pyroglutamic acid prevents dehydration of the skin and maintains it soft, supple and elastic.

Sodium PCA is a naturally expressed component of human skin and a part of the "natural moisturizing factors" (NMF) that maintain a healthy epidermis. Sodium PCA is highly hygroscopic, catching moisture from the air. It imparts a moist feeling to hair and skin. Sodium PCA administered to the skin is absorbed to a determined extent. It is non-comedogenic, non-irritating to the eye and skin -- even at concentrations up to 50%, and does not contribute to phototoxicity or sensitization. It is quickly biodegradable. Soluble in water and alcohol and insoluble in oils, it is used for its strong humectant properties in many health and beauty solutions including conditioners, creams, lipsticks, lotions, shampoos, gels and foundations.

One of the primary elements in maintaining skin healthy is making sure the composition of the epidermis (outer layer of skin) is intact. That composition is defined and created by skin cells that are held together by the intercellular matrix. The intercellular matrix is the "glue" or "mortar" between skin cells that keep them united. It helps prevent individual skin cells from losing water and creates the smooth, non-flaky appearance of healthy, intact skin. The components that do this are usually called natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) or ingredients that mimic the structure and function of healthy skin. While the oil and fat components of skin prevent evaporation and provide lubrication to the surface of skin, it is really the intercellular matrix along with the skin's lipid content that confers skin a good part of its surface texture and feel.

The intercellular matrix is the skin's first line of defense against water loss. When the lipid and NMF load of skin is lessened, we notice fine lines, surface roughness, flaking, and a tight, incommodious feeling. The longer the skin's surface layer (stratum corneum) is altered, the less efficient the skin's intercellular matrix becomes. Moreover, the skin's curing mechanism is impaired. All of the skin's protecting NMFs and lipids are present in the intercellular spaces of the epidermis, both between skin cells and in the lipid content on the surface of skin. When any of these ingredients are used in skin-care products, they appear to aid stabilize and maintain this intricate intercellular-skin matrix. More important, all of these ingredients, and many others, can help support the intercellular area of the skin by keeping it intact. This support aids prevent surface irritation from penetrating deeper into the skin, works to keep bacteria out, and aids the skin's defensive/healing mechanism. Selecting moisturizers of any kind with NMFs (whether they are labeled as being antiaging, lotions, antiwrinkle, serums, or sunscreens) allows your skin to do its job of curing and regenerating itself without the impedances brought on when skin is suffering from dryness and excessive irritation.