Zinc PCA: The Oil-Balancer for Shiny Skin
1 min readShare
If you blot your face more than twice a day, zinc PCA is worth getting to know.
What is zinc PCA?
Zinc PCA is zinc combined with PCA, a natural moisturising factor found in skin. It's used to help balance oil while keeping skin hydrated. You'll often find it in toners, serums and lightweight moisturisers for oily skin.
What it does for your skin
- Balances oil. Skin looks less shiny through the day.
- Clearer look. Popular for blemish-prone skin.
- Hydrates. PCA helps skin hold moisture, so it won't feel stripped.
Who it suits
Oily, combination and blemish-prone skin.
Skin MBTI match: O (oily). Not sure of yours? The Skin MBTI quiz tells you in three minutes.
How to use it
- Use in a toner or serum after cleansing, morning and night.
- Follow with a light moisturiser.
- Combine with sunscreen in the morning.
When you'll notice it: Less shine over two to four weeks.
Good to know: Gentle for most skin.
What to pair it with
Zinc PCA pairs very well with niacinamide, and with BHA on alternate days.
Myth vs fact
Myth: Oily skin doesn't need hydration.
Fact: Dehydrated oily skin often makes more oil. Zinc PCA balances oil while keeping moisture in.
How to choose one
- Look for Zinc PCA on the ingredient list.
- Toners and light serums suit oily skin best.
- Paired with niacinamide is a good sign.
Where to find it
We're adding more zinc PCA picks to our shelves. In the meantime, browse our Oil, Behave collection.
FAQ
Is zinc PCA the same as zinc oxide?
No. Zinc oxide is a mineral used in sunscreen. Zinc PCA is a skincare ingredient for oil balance.
Can I use it with niacinamide?
Yes. They're a classic pairing.
Will it dry my skin?
It shouldn't. PCA is hydrating.
Korean corner: 번들거려요 (bun-deul-guh-ryuh-yo) means "my skin looks shiny and greasy".