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PCA PCA Total Strength Serum - Product image showing packaging and label for comedogenic ingredient analysis
PCASerum

PCA Total Strength Serum

Moderate Risk(6)
37 ingredients2 flagged

PCA Total Strength Serum is a sophisticated anti-aging treatment designed to firm, tighten, and strengthen the skin's surface. Formulated with a base of Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water and Glycerin, this serum provides immediate soothing benefits while drawing moisture deep into the dermis. The inclusion of Glycosaminoglycans helps maintain skin elasticity and structural integrity, making it a popular choice for those targeting fine lines and loss of volume. Because its first few ingredients include water and alcohol, the texture is relatively lightweight and fast-absorbing, leaving a smooth finish without a greasy residue. While it excels at providing a more lifted and youthful appearance, the complex formula requires a closer look for those with specific skin sensitivities or congestion concerns. Overall, it serves as a potent rejuvenator for aging skin seeking a more resilient and toned complexion.

Our Analysis

Our analysis classifies PCA Total Strength Serum as having a moderate comedogenic risk. The primary concern is Palm Oil, which has a high rating of 4/5; its high saturated fat content (Palmitic Acid) can create a heavy film that potentially traps sebum and clogs pores. We also flagged Tocopherol (Vitamin E) with a rating of 2/5. While Tocopherol is a stellar antioxidant, its naturally thick and sticky consistency can contribute to congestion in certain formulations. While the serum offers great anti-aging benefits, these specific ingredients may be problematic for those highly prone to breakouts.

Skin Type Recommendations

This serum is ideal for mature, dry, or normal skin types seeking firming and anti-aging results. However, it is not recommended for oily or acne-prone skin due to the moderate pore-clogging risk of palm oil. Those with sensitive skin should patch test first due to the witch hazel and alcohol content.

Flagged Ingredients

4
palm oil

High saturated fat (Palmitic Acid) content creates a heavy, clogging film.

2
tocopherol

Pure Vitamin E is thick and sticky; safe in small amounts as an antioxidant, but potentially clogging in pure oil form.

Want Deeper Analysis?

Run our MACR (Multi-Axis Comedogenic Risk) analysis to get a comprehensive 5-axis risk assessment. This AI-powered analysis evaluates ingredients for Plugging Risk, Barrier Damage, Fungal Acne Risk, Oxidation Risk, and real-world User Reports — giving you personalized scores for your skin type.

Full Ingredient List(37 ingredients)

WaterHamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) WaterGlycerinGlycosaminoglycansAlcoholAlcohol DenatGluconolactoneHydroxypropyl CyclodextrinAmmonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/​VP CopolymerSodium BenzoateXanthan GumLonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower ExtractCocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit JuiceAdenosineAesculus Hippocastanum (Horse Chestnut) Seed ExtractLavandula Hybrida OilLonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower ExtractMelaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf OilMenthyl LactateSantalum Austrocaledonicum Wood OilSilybum Marianum ExtractSodium HyaluronateTotarolTocotrienolsElaeis Guineensis (Palm) OilCitric AcidPhospholipidsPotassium SorbateTocopherolSH-Oligopeptide-1Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP CopolymerRead all the geeky details about Glycerin here >>Read all the geeky details about Alcohol Denat. here >>Read all the geeky details about Gluconolactone here >>Read all the geeky details about Tocopherol here >>[more]

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Our analysis is powered by AI and backed by extensive research on comedogenic ingredients — but it's not medical advice. For skin concerns, please consult a dermatologist.