What cosmetic properties does glycerin have? Glycerin in cosmetics

by Catelyn Cox

Glycerin is commonly added to various cosmetics because it improves their consistency and positively influences their shelf life. Although it intensively moisturises and regenerates the skin, some people are reluctant to use it. What properties does glycerin have and how is it used? What are the contraindications to its use?

Glycerin – properties

Glycerin,  also called glycerol or trihydric alcohol, is a byproduct of soap production. It is a dense, colourless and odourless liquid with a sweet taste. Glycerin dissolves in water and in alcohol.

Types of glycerin

  • Natural, which is produced by saponification of vegetable oils (most commonly palm oil or coconut oil).
  • Synthetic, which is derived from propylene.

Glycerin – cosmetic properties

Glycerin is a cheap and popular ingredient used in cosmetics. It is hygroscopic, which means that it absorbs water. Glycerin is not fat soluble but is used as a solvent for fats. That is why it is a popular ingredient of creams and lip balms. However, that’s not all. Glycerin also reduces the drying effect of alcohol and the crystallization of individual ingredients. It also facilitates the mixing of greasy and liquid ingredients and also acts as a preservative, because glycerin impairs water activity. What’s important: glycerin easily penetrates deep into the skin, which facilitates the absorption of nutrients.

Glycerin – cosmetic application

Glycerin is added to many cosmetics, such as:

  • Moisturizing face and body creams
    Because of the fact that glycerin acts as a water-binding agent, it deeply hydrates the skin. The effect lasts for even 24 hours. Glycerin makes the skin elastic and smooth.
  • Hand and foot creams
    Glycerin softens cornified skin, relieves all irritation and redness.
  • Creams for mature skin
    Glycerin makes the skin elastic and tightens it. It also smoothes small wrinkles. In addition, it has a moisturising effect also accelerating the regeneration of the skin.
  • Winter protective creams
    Glycerin protects the skin from frost and wind.
  • Hair care cosmetics
    Glycerin strengthens weakened and falling out hair and gives it a shine, also smoothing the ends. To moisturise the hair, you can mix a few drops of glycerine with a chosen hair mask or conditioner. Repeat the treatment whenever the condition of your hair deteriorates.

Glycerin used in cosmetics is most often synthetic, but it does not have any negative influence on our body. Since manufacturers do not have to provide any information as to whether glycerine was derived from animal or vegetable fats, vegans should look for glycerin vegetal on the list of ingredients.

How is glycerol used?

Glycerin in its pure form is available in every pharmacy at an affordable price. You can mix glycerin with hair care products or use it as a base for powder eyeshadows (for this purpose it should be mixed in a ratio of 1:3).

Glycerine is suitable for every skin type, especially for dry, atopic and mature skin.

Glycerin – contraindications for use

Although glycerine is non-toxic and has a neutral influence on the body, sometimes it may cause allergic reactions. Glycerin-based cosmetics are safer for sensitive skin than those containing paraffin.

The concentration of glycerol is of importance as well. The optimal concentration is 5-15% – then glycerin has moisturising effect. If its concentration exceeds 25%, glycerin acquires antibacterial and drying properties. What does it mean? Glycerine then absorbs water found in deep skin layers and prevents moisture from getting inside the skin.

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