- Glycerin has many benefits for skinsummer shower image by Renata Osinska from Fotolia.com
Glycerin is a colorless, viscous alcohol that is used in skincare products and cosmetics for its emollient properties. It is most commonly obtained from animal fats or vegetable sources, and it is not a common allergen. All of these reasons make it an excellent ingredient for skincare, and it used often in skincare products. Its primary functions are as moisturizer, anti-aging agent, and cleanser. - Glycerin is an effective moisturizer because it naturally draws water to the skin. It is often used as an ingredient in lotions and body creams for its highly moisturizing qualities. It draws water from the air into the deeper layers of the dermis, hydrating cells within skin's interior layers. Glycerin also improves skin's elasticity.
- An article published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology in 2002 by the cell physiologist Dr. Wendy Bollinger Bollag found that glycerin helps skin cells mature properly. Glycerin keeps the skin-cell production cycle moving along by sending out a signal that ushers skin cells through their normal path to maturity. This in turn encourages cells to turn over more quickly. When dead skin cells accumulate on skin's surface, skin becomes dull and lackluster. The overall effect of the continuous reproduction process is younger-looking, healthier skin.
- Glycerin is often added to facial and body cleansers as a non-drying alternative to soap. It is not an irritant and does not upset most complexions; combining it with cleansing ingredients allows skin to become clean without being stripped of moisture.
