Beauty
Experts explain the hydrating hero.
Its a known moisturizing ingredient that can help both the hair and skin in a number of different ways.
But what makes glycerin so great and why does it seem to be in every moisturizer on the market?
To get a complete breakdown of the hero ingredient, Bustle tappedDr.
Dendy Engelman, M.D., F.A.C.M.S., F.A.A.D., board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Shafer Clinic, andDr.
What Is Glycerin?
She explains that glycerin creates an occlusive barrier to prevent water loss and keep dryness at bay.
How Is Glycerin Different From Hyaluronic Acid & Other Humectants?
Both glycerin andhyaluronic acidare humectants, which are moisturizing agents that retain moisture.
The biggest difference between the two is their size.
Why Is Glycerin So Great For Your Skin?
How Do You Use Glycerin In Your Skin Care Routine?
Its incredibly easy to incorporate into your routine as it is formulated into many products in the market.
It will help lock in the moisture throughout the day, she says.
Using it every day can help with dry skin conditions.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Both experts say that glycerin has very minimal side effects if any at all.
Glycerin is a mild ingredient that is safe enough to be applied to open wounds, says Engelman.
So its impact on the skin is mainly healing and moisturizing, with few unwanted side effects.
It also plays well with other skincare ingredients.
Everyone’s skin is different and can react differently to a product.
How Long Does It Take To See Results?
Because of its minimal side effects, she adds that glycerin is safe to use every day.
Just be aware of your individual skin punch in and concerns, she says.
confirm to use glycerin in a way that best supports your skins health.
Studies referenced:
Widyarman, A., Drestia, A., Bachtiar, E., Bachtiar, B.
The Anti-inflammatory Effects of Glycerol-supplemented ProbioticLactobacillus reuterion Infected Epithelial cellsIn vitro.Contemp Clin Dent.
2018 Apr-Jun;9(2):298-303.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29875577/
This article was originally published onNovember 3, 2022
