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The most popular and almost the most powerful moisturizer has been faithfully serving the beauty industry for decades, but in recent years it has increasingly come under distribution and has been criticized. Is it true that this cosmetic component is not as straightforward as it seems? We find out.
Glycerin in cosmetics
Glycerin is an ingredient that has gained nationwide popularity (admit it, who in childhood did not smear cracks on the skin of their hands with a viscous transparent thing from a pharmacy bottle?). For many years, it has taken pride of place in the composition of cosmetics for the face and body. Its main task is to moisturize the skin. Due to what he performs it flawlessly?
Glycerin improves skin hydration levels
Glycerin is a trihydric alcohol. This means that its chemical formula includes three water molecules. It is due to such a solid water group that glycerin has the following properties:
- perfectly soluble in water;
- attracts water from the environment.
Due to its special molecular structure and high hygroscopicity (the ability to attract water), glycerin is successfully used in cosmetics as an active moisturizing ingredient.
Exposure to skin
In terms of its effect on the skin, glycerin is very close to hyaluronic acid. These two substances are related by the same hygroscopicity. Glycerin also supplies the upper layers of the epidermis with water, pulling it out of the air. But glycerin is capable of more than just superficial hydration:
- forms a film that attracts water to the surface of the skin;
- opens waterways to the deep layers of the skin.
One molecule of glycerol is able to attract 10 water molecules, while its volume will at least double. When applied to the skin, glycerin forms a hygroscopic film, moisturizing first the upper and then the lower layers of the epidermis. At the next stage, glycerin opens aquaporin channels that supply water to the deep layers of the epidermis.
Composition and components
Industrial glycerin is extracted from vegetable and animal raw materials or synthesized.
Animal glycerin isolated from pork fat.
Vegetable made from coconut and palm oil, as well as lemon balm.
Synthetic – synthesized from propylene.
Animal glycerin is used today much less frequently than its vegetable counterpart – more environmentally friendly, and therefore more popular. Vegetable glycerin, produced from organic oils, is especially appreciated by adherents of natural cosmetics.
The quality of glycerin is determined not by the source of raw materials, but by the production technology – with or without chlorine. It is believed that glycerin produced without the participation of chlorine is more pure, works better at low humidity and does not irritate the skin.
Restrictions on use
Glycerin can irritate sensitive skin if it contains chlorine particles. More expensive, pure and high-quality glycerin, produced using chlorine-free technology, does not cause negative consequences.
Most often, glycerin is found in formulas for intense skin hydration.
The use of glycerin
Glycerin-based products are primarily aimed at moisturizing. But remember: as a hygroscopic substance, glycerin is saturated with water from the environment. So the higher the humidity, the better.
If the humidity level is below 45%, then glycerin, applied alone or in the form of a concentrated solution, can cause a feeling of tightness. To prevent this from happening, “seal” it with an oil-based product – cream or emulsion.
Glycerin is included in the formulas of various skin care products to maintain optimal levels of moisture.
For dry skin
Dry skin is the most grateful consumer of cosmetics based on glycerin, which immediately brings relief and relieves the feeling of dryness.
For oily skin
Included in moisturizing gels, softens the action of acids in exfoliating products, promotes good distribution of cosmetics with light textures.
For mature skin
Aged skin is characterized by a reduced level of moisture, which is why glycerin is often listed as an active ingredient in anti-age products.
For neck and eye area
These delicate areas are especially in need of hydration, and glycerin is often found in creams designed specifically for them.
Glycerin in cosmetics
Glycerin is used in cosmetic products of various categories and is usually added to enhance the moisturizing effect.
Cosmetic products with glycerin
Cosmetic products with glycerin
Fund category | Name of funds | Skin type |
Mask | Super-moisturizing and toning sheet mask “Aqua-bomb”, Garnier | any |
scrub | Cleanser Normaderm 3 in 1, Vichy | oily, problematic |
Lotion | Cleansing lotion, narrowing the pores Normaderm, Vichy | oily, problematic |
gel | Moisturizing gel-cream for the face without oils Ultra Facial Oil Free Gel-Cream, Kiehl’s | normal, combination, oily |
cream | Calming multi-restorative balm Cicaplast Baume B5, La Roche-Posay | hypersensitive, irritated |