Behind water and fragrance, glycerin is the third most frequently reported ingredient in cosmetics, according to a 2014 Cosmetic Ingredient Review.
Recognized as a major ingredient in moisturizers and lotions, buying and using glycerin in its pure form is growing in popularity.
Studies show that glycerin can positively affect your skin in a number of ways. Keep reading to find out how.
Glycerin and your skin
Glycerin’s appearance in skin care products appears to be warranted.
According to a 2008 studyTrusted Source, glycerin can:
-hydrate the outer layer of the skin (stratum corneum)
-improve skin barrier function and skin mechanical properties
-provide protection against skin irritants
-accelerate wound-healing processes
What is glycerin?
Glycerin, also known as glycerol, is a natural compound derived from vegetable oils or animal fats. It’s a clear, colorless, odorless and syrupy liquid with a sweet taste.
Glycerin is a humectant, a type of moisturizing agent that pulls water into the outer layer of your skin from deeper levels of your skin and the air.
In skin care products, glycerin is commonly used with occlusives, another type of moisturizing agent, to trap the moisture that it draws into the skin.
According to a 2016 studyTrusted Source, glycerin is “the most effective humectant” in comparison with numerous others, including:
-alpha hydroxy acids, such as lactic acid and glycolic acid
-hyaluronic acid
-propylene glycol and butylene glycol
-sorbitol
-urea
