Mixing Low and High Molecular Weight gamma-Polyglutamic Acid for Serum Formulation
Asked by: ice_hagen
On: March 24, 2026
Product Type:
Cosmetics
Question
The customer would like to formulate a serum by mixing gamma-Polyglutamic acid in the following ratio:
gamma-Polyglutamic acid (Low Molecular Weight): 70%gamma-Polyglutamic acid (High Molecular Weight): 30%
Could you please provide mixing methods or recommendations? The product documentation for PGA does not specify how to blend the Low Molecular Weight and High Molecular Weight versions together.
Answer
Mixing gamma-Polyglutamic acid (LMW) and gamma-Polyglutamic acid (HMW) is a common practice to achieve multi-depth hydration, similar to using multiple molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid. While there isn't a separate document specifically for the blend, you can follow the standard mixing guidelines for both.
Recommended Mixing Method
- Determine Total Concentration: The recommended usage rate for Polyglutamic Acid (PGA) is 0.1% - 1% of the total formula (0.3% - 0.5% is often sufficient).
- Calculate the Ratio: Based on your 70:30 ratio:
- If you want 0.5% total PGA: Use 0.35% LMW and 0.15% HMW.
- Dissolving:
- PGA is water-soluble. Add both powders into the water phase of your serum.
- Stir or use a high-speed mixer until the powder is completely dissolved. HMW may take slightly longer to dissolve than LMW.
- Temperature Control: Do not exceed 60°C during the mixing process, as high heat can degrade the polymer structure.
- pH Adjustment: PGA is generally stable in a typical skin-care pH range (approx. 5.0–7.0).
Benefits of the 70:30 Blend
- gamma-Polyglutamic acid (Low Molecule Weight) (70%): Focuses on deep skin penetration. It helps inhibit hyaluronidase (the enzyme that breaks down natural HA), increases Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMFs), and strengthens the skin from within.
- gamma-Polyglutamic acid (High Molecule Weight) (30%): Functions primarily on the skin's surface. It forms a thin, breathable film that locks in moisture, provides an immediate smoothing effect, and protects the skin barrier.
Storage and Precautions
- Storage: Keep the powders in a cool place (6-15°C) and protect them from sunlight and moisture.
- Preservation: Since this is a water-based serum, ensure you include a broad-spectrum preservative system to prevent microbial growth.