How does glycerin affect your skin health in cosmetics?
Glycerin , chemically known as glycerol, is a trihydroxyl alcohol that occurs naturally in esters of fats and oils in the form of glycerides and is one of the most important biochemical substances in the world of living organisms. Glycerin is a clear, colorless, odorless and non-alkaline substance in the form of a thick liquid with a sweet taste. Glycerin is hygroscopic, that is, it can attract and absorb moisture from the environment, and this property makes it widely used in various industries, especially in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
One of the key properties of glycerin is its ability to effectively attract and retain moisture , making it a valuable ingredient in many skin care products. Glycerin acts as a humectant, meaning it attracts moisture from the environment and helps keep the skin hydrated. This property is especially important in dry skin care, as glycerin can help reduce skin flaking and cracking, as well as reduce transepidermal water loss, which is important for maintaining the skin's barrier function.
The role of glycerin in cosmetics
Glycerin is one of the main components in the cosmetics industry , which is valued for its unique properties and ability to positively affect the skin and hair. Glycerin is not only hygroscopic, meaning that it effectively attracts and retains moisture, but also has osmotic properties that make it a very important ingredient in many cosmetic products.
The role of glycerin in cosmetics is multifaceted. First, it acts as a humectant, drawing moisture from the air to the surface of the skin , helping to keep the skin hydrated. This property is especially important in the care of dry, dehydrated or mature skin, as glycerin helps prevent dryness and flaking, and can also help reduce fine lines and improve skin texture. Also, due to its moisturizing properties, glycerin is often found in various face and body moisturizers , lotions, face masks, and even hair care products.
Second, glycerin can help strengthen the skin barrier . A healthy skin barrier is essential to protect the skin from external factors such as pollution, bacteria and allergens, and helps prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Glycerin helps to strengthen this barrier, thus helping to preserve the health and resilience of the skin.
Thirdly, glycerin is used as a skin conditioner, giving the skin smoothness and softness . This is especially important in products for sensitive skin, as glycerin is non-irritating and non-allergenic, making it suitable even for sensitive skin and can help reduce irritation and inflammation.
Glycerin is also a valuable component in hair care. Glycerin helps retain moisture in the hair, gives it softness and shine . Particularly beneficial for dry, damaged hair, glycerin can help restore hair health and strength.
Facial care
Glycerin is often used in facial care products, especially moisturizers and serums for dry or dehydrated skin. Glycerin effectively draws moisture from the environment to the surface of the skin, helping to keep the skin hydrated. This is important for skin health and appearance, as hydrated skin looks healthier and younger. Glycerin can also be used in skin soothing products for sensitive or irritated skin as it reduces irritation and soothes inflammation.
Body care
Glycerin is important in body lotions and creams because of its ability to keep the skin moist and soft . Products containing glycerin are ideal for dry, rough or flaky skin, as they help restore the skin's moisture balance and soften the skin. Glycerin is also used in hand creams because it helps protect the skin of the hands from drying out and cracking, especially in winter or with frequent hand washing.
Hair care
In hair care products, such as shampoos and conditioners, glycerin helps retain moisture in the hair, giving it softness and shine. It is especially beneficial for dry, damaged or frizzy hair that requires extra hydration to maintain a healthy look and texture.
Lip care
Glycerin is used in lip balms and glosses for its ability to retain moisture in the lips, preventing dryness and cracking. It gives the lips softness and softness, and also helps to maintain a longer lasting lipstick or gloss.
Eye care
Some eye care products, such as eye gels and creams, use glycerin for its ability to moisturize the delicate skin around the eyes. Glycerin helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles and reduces the appearance of eye bags and dark circles.
In conclusion, glycerin is an important and versatile ingredient in various cosmetic product categories , helping to keep skin and hair hydrated, soft and healthy looking.
Information sources
- PubMed
- ScienceDirect
- Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology
- International Journal of Cosmetic Science
# glycerin