Glycerine (or glycerol) is a colourless and odourless liquid substance that can bind moisture from the environment to keep the skin hydrated and smooth. This is why glycerine is often used as a hydrating and moisturising ingredient in skin care, body care and hair care products.
What is glycerine?
Glycerine (also referred to as glycerol or glycerine oil) is produced by the hydrolysis of fats and is also a by-product of soap production. While in the past animal fats or fossil sources were used, today 100% vegetable glycerine is the most widely used in cosmetics. This is obtained from natural oils such as coconut, canola, olive or sunflower. There is also synthetic glycerine, which is chemically identical to the natural form.
What effects does glycerine have on the skin?
What are the effects of glycerine on the face and body? Discover what glycerine can do:
- Skin hydration: Glycerine can bind moisture from the environment and transport it to the skin. In concentrations up to 10%, it keeps the skin hydrated and prevents dryness.
- Softens and refines the skin: Glycerine cream helps soften and smooth dry and rough skin. It can even improve its texture and ensure silky soft skin.
- Soothes irritated skin: Thanks to its hydrating and softening properties, glycerine can also have a positive effect on skin that is irritated and sensitive. It helps soothe irritation and reduce redness and itching.
- Contributes to skin regeneration: By providing the skin with sufficient moisture and creating a suitable environment for regeneration, glycerine also supports the skin's natural renewal process.
- It is gentle and suitable for sensitive skin: Because glycerine is well tolerated by different skin types, it has found a use in many cosmetic products, including those designed for atopic skin.
What effects does glycerine have on hair?
- Hydrates the hair shaft: Just like the skin, glycerine can also hydrate the hair. It also prevents further moisture loss.
- Protects hair against damage: Glycerine prevents hair breakage and frizz, also protecting it from external influences.
- Smooth and silky hair: Glycerine smoothes, softens and straightens hair fibres. It counteracts frizzy hair.
Glycerine: Its use in cosmetic products
The application of cosmetic products is easier, more comfortable and more effective thanks to the use of glycerine. Not only does glycerine have beneficial effects on the skin and hair, it also helps improve the adhesion and texture of cosmetic products. This allows you to spread the product evenly and effectively.
What is glycerine used for? For example, for the production of skin care products such as skin creams, lotions, face masks or toners.
Undoubtedly, you will also find glycerine (glycerol) in cosmetics that are intended for body care. It is added to hand and body creams and even shower gels. You may also commonly use glycerine on your hair - it's found in shampoos and conditioners, where it helps not only to increase moisture but also to improve the texture of the hair.
Last but not least, it can be found in foundation, lipsticks and many other cosmetic products that are supposed to hydrate and protect the skin or hair. Thanks to its versatility and benefits, glycerine has become a key ingredient in many cosmetic products.
How about you? Will you try the hydrating effects of glycerine on your own skin?
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