Why we use Glycerin

↓ skip to summary

Glycerin: The Unsung Hero of Skincare

In the ever-evolving world of skincare, exotic plant extracts and high-tech peptides dominate the conversation. Glycerin, the humble polyol, remains an unassuming yet remarkably effective ingredient. As one of the oldest and most widely used humectants, glycerin’s simplicity often leads to it being overlooked in favour of trendier actives. However, its hydrating, barrier-supporting, and compatibility-enhancing properties make it an indispensable component of effective skincare formulations. Despite its ubiquity, glycerin is vastly underrated and deserves greater recognition for its powerful contributions to skin health.

Deep Hydration + Barrier Support

Glycerin is a highly effective humectant, drawing moisture from the environment into the skin. Unlike some hydrating ingredients that sit on the surface, glycerin penetrates deeper into the stratum corneum, improving hydration and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). In addition, studies have shown that glycerin-containing formulations significantly improve skin hydration and resilience. Furthermore, it is particularly effective in tempering conditions characterised by dryness and impaired barrier function, such as atopic dermatitis.¹

Beyond hydration, glycerin plays a critical role in reinforcing the skin barrier. It helps restore the lipid organisation in the outermost layer of the skin, making it more resistant to environmental stressors and irritation. Unlike occlusives, which form a temporary film over the skin, glycerin actively enhances the skin’s ability to retain moisture, contributing to long-term skin health.¹

Universal Compatibility and Tolerance

One of glycerin’s most underrated qualities is its universal compatibility across skin types and formulations. For example, glycerin is effective in all environmental conditions, continuously drawing moisture into the skin. Also, its non-comedogenic and non-irritating nature makes it a reliable choice in basic and advanced skincare regimens for all skin types.²

Where does glycerin come from?

In the cosmetics industry, glycerin is predominantly produced through the hydrolysis of plant-based oils, such as soybean, palm, or coconut oil. This process involves breaking down triglycerides into glycerin and fatty acids. As a result, a high-purity product suitable for skincare formulations is created. This method is generally favored over synthetic production routes, as it yields a natural, high-quality glycerin.

references

1 Fluhr, J. W., Darlenski, R., & Surber, C. (2008). Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functions. The British journal of dermatology, 159(1), 23–34. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2133.2008.08643.xGlycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functions.
2 Becker, L. C., Bergfeld, W. F., Belsito, D. V., Hill, R. A., Klaassen, C. D., Liebler, D. C., Marks, J. G., Jr, Shank, R. C., Slaga, T. J., Snyder, P. W., Gill, L. J., & Heldreth, B. (2019). Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics. International journal of toxicology, 38(3_suppl), 6S–22S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819883820 Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics.