Glycerin
A gentle, well-tolerated humectant that draws moisture into the skin; a staple of moisturisers for every skin type.
glycerine, glycerol, vegetable glycerin
Dry & dehydrated skin · Barrier support · All skin types
What it does
Glycerin is one of the most widely used and best-studied moisturising ingredients. As a humectant, it helps prevent dryness and flaking by drawing moisture into the upper layer of the skin and supporting its protective barrier. Because it is so well tolerated, it is a staple of gentle moisturisers for very dry and sensitive skin.
How it works
Syrupy in texture and colour-free, glycerin is a substance found naturally in the skin, one of many that help maintain the outer barrier, and by doing so, assist in preventing the appearance of dryness or scaling. Combined with other emollients or oils, it’s a fundamental ingredient in most moisturisers. In very dry air, a humectant can also draw water up from deeper in the skin, which is why glycerin works best sealed in with a cream.
MG says
The use of glycerin in skincare formulations provides a smooth texture and works as a humectant to draw moisture from the air and help deliver active ingredients. For very dry or mature skin, layer a hydrating serum rich in glycerin and hyaluronic acid, then follow with a richer cream to seal the moisture in.
Cautions
Glycerin is one of the best-tolerated skincare ingredients and suits all skin types. In high concentrations it can feel slightly tacky, which a moisturiser on top resolves.
