Properties: Humectant, Moisturizing Agent, Anti-Aging
Glycerin is non-toxic and environmentally safe. It is an ideal ingredient in food and cosmetic applications. The most common application of glycerin in skincare is as a humectant. Humectants are moisturizing chemicals that moisturize and soften the skin by pulling water from the environment. Glycerin may permeate the skin barrier and stay within the skin for several days, providing constant hydration. It has also been demonstrated to be the most effective humectant component usually found in cosmetic formulas. Glycerin, on the other hand, can leave a sticky or tacky residue on the skin if applied excessively due to its thick nature. As a result, it is frequently diluted with other moisturizing substances, such as hyaluronic acid, which has a light, almost watery texture. Glycerin helps the skin barrier by drawing water from the air, which keeps the skin moisturized and reduces water loss. Glycerin may stay in the skin for a long time, allowing it to maintain hydration even when subjected to harmful environmental aggressors such as pollution. Glycerin may also aid in the retention of the structure of the skin's natural lipids, promoting a healthy skin barrier. Glycerin's capacity to temporarily plump the skin and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles is one of its most distinguishing properties.
Source:
- Ventura, S.A., and G.B. Kasting. “Dynamics of Glycerine and Water Transport Across Human Skin From Binary Mixtures.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science vol. 39,2 (2016): 165-178.
- Fluhr, Joachim & Bornkessel, A. & Berardesca, Enzo. “Glycerol — just a moisturizer? biological and biophysical effects.” Dry Skin and Moisturizers: Chemistry and Function vol.2 (2005): 227-243.
- “Glycerin: An overview.” The Soap & Detergent Association: Glycerine and Oleochemical Division (1990): 1-24.
- Milani, M., & Sparavigna, A. (2017). The 24-hour skin hydration and barrier function effects of a hyaluronic 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract moisturizing fluid: an intra-subject, randomized, assessor-blinded study. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 10, 311–315.