Natural Moisturizing Factors

A number of documents describe the usefulness of the pyroglutamic acid radical (also called Sodium PCA). This usefulness is most seen in the field 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 an organically expressed element of human skin and a part of the “natural moisturizing factors” (NMF) that keep a healthy epidermis. Sodium PCA is very hygroscopic, catching moisture from the air. It confers a moist feeling to hair and skin. Sodium PCA administered to the skin is assimilated to a limited extent. It is non-comedogenic, non-irritating to the eye and skin — even at proportions up to 50%, and doesn’t 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 abilities in many health and beauty solutions including shampoos, gels, conditioners, lipsticks, lotions, creams and foundations.

One of the main elements in keeping 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 kept together by the intercellular matrix. The intercellular matrix is the “cement” or “mortar” between skin cells that keep them united. It helps avoid individual skin cells from losing water and creates the smooth, non-flaky look of healthy, flawless skin. The components that do this are often known as natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) or ingredients that mimic the structure and function of healthy skin. While the oil and fat components of skin avoid 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 body’s first line of defense against water loss. When the lipid and NMF content of skin is reduced, we experience surface roughness, fine lines, flaking, and a tight, bothersome feeling. The longer the skin’s surface layer (stratum corneum) is impaired, the less effective the skin’s intercellular matrix becomes. Moreover, the skin’s curing process is impaired. All of the skin’s protecting NMFs and lipids are found 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 seem to help stabilize and keep this complex intercellular-skin matrix. More important, all of these ingredients, and many more, can help maintain the intercellular area of the skin by keeping it flawless. This support aids avoid surface irritation from penetrating deeper into the skin, works to keep bacteria out, and reinforces the skin’s defensive/healing mechanism. Applying moisturizers of any kind with NMFs (whether they are labeled as being antiwrinkle, lotions, antiaging, serums, or sunscreens) allows your skin to do its job of repairing and rejuvenating itself without the difficulties brought on when skin is suffering from dryness and excess irritation.

Recover and maintain your skin’s hydration and tone applying our biological skin care product, designed to nourish your skin while at the same time eliminates all types of blemishes and scars.

- Angelique Jodein

Originally posted 2008-01-27 07:01:18.

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