You’ve used it before – even if this is your first time hearing its name. From lotions to serums, glycerin is a common skincare supporter. In fact, it is the third-most commonly used cosmetic ingredient!

Why?

Because it’s an incredible hydrator, humectant, and emollient. But, when it comes to your skincare regimen, you’re likely more concerned with why glycerin is in your products in the first place.

That’s why we’re here – to share why this ingredient is so beneficial to your skin and how you can use it for optimal results.

Let’s dive in and explore the five glycerin-on-skin benefits you need to know about!

Glycerin can be derived from various sources, including plant and animal fats, as well as synthetically produced. Thanks to a process called “hydrolyzing,” glycerin is extracted from plants and animal fats to produce a colorless, odorless liquid. This liquid is used across several industries, including the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

High-quality glycerin, such as organic plant-derived glycerin, is particularly sought after for skincare products. Glycerin helps maintain the moisture balance of the skin, giving it the unique ability to support skin’s healthy, youthful appearance.

To achieve this end, glycerin works in two powerful ways.

First, it attracts moisture from the air and binds said moisture to your skin. This process helps your skin remain hydrated, which supports it in looking and feeling healthy.

Second, some studies show that glycerin behaves like a barrier and blocks trans-epidermal water loss. In other words, it helps prevent the skin’s natural moisture from evaporating.

Thanks to these two qualities, glycerin is an ideal ingredient for those looking to hydrate dry or sensitive skin.

Dry skin can often be the result of a weakened skin barrier. A compromised skin barrier allows moisture to escape from the skin, and the environment to enter. If the skin’s layers don’t contain enough water content, they become more susceptible to damage from outside sources such as UV radiation or environmental pollutants.

What causes dry skin?

Dehydration, aggressive cleansers, harsh environmental conditions, and even supposed “skincare” products can all break down the skin’s barrier.

Glycerin supports and strengthens the restorative nature of the skin barrier by supplementing it with hydration and locking in moisture. It helps keep the skin’s protective layer intact and healthy for a longer period of time.

Glycerin not only draws moisture in and keeps environmental aggressors out, but also acts as a water-retention agent.

How so?

By binding the moisture it attracts from the air to your skin. This benefit is especially advantageous for those with a dry complexion or those living in areas with very low humidity levels.

Some studies show that glycerin may also help reduce trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). This is the process by which water evaporates from the skin into the atmosphere. While a certain amount of TEWL is natural and healthy, an excess may cause dryness depending on certain environmental factors. Things like cold temperatures, dry air, and high winds can all contribute to increased TEWL.

While glycerin possesses impressive hydrating capabilities even on its own, it can be even more effective against TEWL when paired with other natural ingredients. Its collaboration with a potent occlusive, like mango butter for instance, can ensure that the moisture stays locked in for longer periods.

Alongside an oil-based moisturizer such as jojoba seed oil, glycerin’s hydrating power can be amplified even more, resulting in skin that remains soft, supple, and hydrated.

Dryness isn’t the only concern when it comes to sensitive skin. Sensitivity can also manifest as redness, itchiness, or irritation.

Glycerin has shown a unique potential to soothe and calm the skin with its moisturizing qualities. In addition to helping keep moisture locked in and environmental aggressors out, glycerin helps reduce the appearance of inflammation and irritation caused by sensitivity or dryness.

Humectants like glycerin may also prove highly beneficial to individuals suffering from issues like eczema and psoriasis.

Glycerin helps contribute to enhanced skin barrier function, promoting skin’s natural ability to guard against irritating stimuli.

This property helps alleviate inflammation often encountered in those who struggle with common sensitive skin issues. For example, a study specifically on atopic dermatitis, revealed that glycerin can play a pivotal role in skin hydration, reducing signs of redness or irritation, and improving barrier function.

Glycerin works by supporting the skin’s natural defense mechanism, mitigating further damage and accelerating the healing process.

Please remember undiluted glycerin should never be put on your skin — sensitive or otherwise. It works best when diluted or properly proportioned as part of a skincare product — such as creams, serums, or liquid bandage solutions.

Did you know that up to 28% of adults suffer from dehydration (and it’s more likely the older you get)- which can directly impact skin health?

Your skin struggles enough under environmental factors such as pollution damage, sun exposure, smoking, and free radicals. Adding general dehydration on top of these drying factors promotes all kinds of premature skin aging. We’re talking wrinkles, fine lines, dark circles/spots, and a lackluster complexion to boot!

By sealing in moisture with the help of glycerin, you may be able to smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Remember, dry skin doesn’t cause aging, but it can make aging signs more obvious. For example, if your skin is dry, any fine lines or wrinkles you have may look deeper or more prominent.

Glycerin stands up as a powerful skincare ingredient that may just provide major improvements in both the texture and appearance of one’s skin.

If you want to use it to both hydrate and cleanse your skin (plus make it look more youthful), look into the Pur-Radiance Facial Cleanser from Purity Woods.

Formulated with a blend of 21 pure, 100% USDA Certified Organic ingredients like maple leaf extract, turkey tail mushroom, German chamomile, aloe vera, and yes, glycerin, this ultra-hydrating facial cleanser infuses your skin with natural plant extracts to nourish, protect, and help improve overall skin tone and texture. Ingredients, like the three elastin-boosting maple leaf extracts, work together to combat signs of aging, while others like jojoba oil and glycerin make sure your skin stays moisturized.

The Pur-Radiance Facial Cleanser is gentle enough for everyday use and every skin type, so you can enjoy brighter, more nourished skin each and every day.

Learn more about the Pur-Radiance cleanser here, and don’t forget to keep your skin clean and hydrated from the outside in!