Sodium PCA and related salt forms (calcium, magnesium, potassium) are safe for use in cosmetics at current concentrations, according to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. The main caveat: these ingredients shouldn't be used in products where N-nitroso compounds could form, as that combination poses a safety concern.

The expert panel reviewed toxicology data from previous assessments (1999) plus new research on three previously unstudied salt variations of PCA to determine safety at typical usage levels.

Funding not disclosed in abstract