Glycerin is a popular, but controversial ingredient. Without it, it is really impossible to build a truly effective system of moisturizing the skin. But that does not mean that pure glycerin must be smeared on the face to get rid of wrinkles. Our experts have talked with chemists and beauticians to find out all the nuances of using this component in ready-made cosmetics and in home beauty recipes.
General information about glycerin
The chemical formula of glycerin is C3H8O3 (triatomic alcohol). It is a colorless viscous liquid. It is odorless and has a sweetish taste. When used correctly, it is neither toxic nor poisonous. This organic compound has good water solubility. It is present in practically all vegetable oils.
In the human body, this compound is formed during the breakdown of fats under the action of enzymes. If due to age changes or illness the synthesis of glycerin is reduced, its lack must be compensated by cosmetic products. Otherwise, the skin will become too dry and flaky, and a secondary infection can easily attach to it.
Important! Glycerol molecules extract water from the air (humidity must be at least 65%) and hold it like a sponge.
In terms of chemistry, all glycerin is the same. But this compound differs in the source of obtaining. Very cheap is a domestic waste of food industry. The more expensive (organic) glycerin is made especially from vegetable oils. Different types of glycerin are used for industrial purposes and in the production of cosmetics.
Cosmetics and glycerin
According to Cosmetic Ingredient Review, after water and fragrance, glycerin is the third most frequently mentioned cosmetic ingredient. It is included in formulations of care and decorative cosmetics because it has the following properties, according to research:
- Moisturizes. This compound extracts moisture from the environment and fills the skin with it. It infuses it into all layers of the skin at varying depths. But to do this, the surrounding air must not be dry, otherwise the glycerin will start to pull water out of the skin.
- Protects. Applying a cream with glycerin on the face creates an invisible, thin film that retains moisture and protects against the evaporation of beneficial substances and water for the skin.
- Soothes.This compound is excellent for softening the skin, making it velvety to the touch. Those who have dry and sensitive skin should use skin cleansing products that contain glycerin. It will protect against irritation and itching.
Glycerin, which is synthesized in the human body, helps to transport water to the cellular structures through specific channels (aquaporins).
Myths about Glycerin
Glycerin combined with water ensures good hydration of the skin, so it is present in many cosmetics. But misinformation is often circulated about this ingredient.
Myth | Denial |
Glycerin dehydrates the skin by drawing out moisture | In its diluted form, it is one of the best moisturizers . Dehydration occurs only if glycerin is used in its pure form, but cosmetologists strongly advise against doing so. |
Glycerin is a cheap moisturizer and therefore automatically a bad one | This compound has different degrees of purification. A substance extracted from good-quality vegetable oils is generally used in cosmetics. If glycerin has undergone all degrees of purification, it is only beneficial for the skin. |
Glycerin draws moisture from the lower layers of the skin when it is too dry | In the lower layers of the skin glycerin is responsible for regulating the osmotic pressure. In extremely dry environments, it does not harm the dermis, but slightly dries out a few surface layers of skin cells. |
How effective for wrinkles
The youth and good condition of the skin are highly dependent on its hydration. As we age our skin synthesizes less and less hyaluronic acid on its own. When there is a deficiency of moisturizers, these problems appear:
dryness;
flaking;
Dull, earthy skin tone;
A large number of superficial wrinkles.
To prevent premature skin aging, daily moisturizing should become a habitual manipulation. The use of glycerin in this case is very advisable. It is a proven, quality moisturizer. In tandem with hyaluronic acid, it has a good smoothing effect, which is essential for fighting wrinkles.
Important! Due to the pronounced moisturizing effect, glycerin visually makes the skin more even and tightened, which contributes to the disappearance of superficial wrinkles.
Precautions
Only “pure” glycerin (not diluted with water) should be feared. Also inappropriate if its concentration in cosmetic products is too high. Overly dry or darkened skin, blackheads and blackheads can occur if used continuously. Read more about it here.
Glycerin Mask Recipes at Home
If you are supporters of home beauty recipes, then, before using masks with glycerin, adhere to these rules:
- Prepare your face. Remove makeup beforehand, make a thorough cleansing (hydrophilic oil, washing foam). Blot the face with a soft towel or paper towel.
- pControl the humidity in the air. Make sure that the room where you will apply the mask, the humidity is not below 60-65%. Such conditions contribute to the fact that glycerin will extract water from the environment and not from the skin.
- Spread the ready to use product in a thin layer. A high concentration of glycerin will not do any good. This can provoke negative effects on the skin (swelling, dryness, peeling).
Also, be sure to test the tolerance of the product before applying it to your face. To start, apply a thin layer of mask on the wrist and observe the reaction of the skin for half an hour.
Glycerin + egg yolk
Take 1 tsp. Glycerin and 1 chicken egg. Remove the egg yolk and mix the 2 ingredients until smooth. Spread the prepared mixture over your face and leave it on for 15 minutes. Rinse off afterwards with lukewarm water. The efficiency of this mask is explained by the fact that the yolk contains vitamin A, which is necessary for the preservation of youth. Together with glycerin it works well to fight wrinkles.
Glycerin + honey
Take: 8 ch. Glycerin spoonfuls, 2 tsp each. Spoonfuls of liquid honey and gelatin, and 8 Tbsp. Spoonfuls of mineral water. Dissolve glycerin, honey, and gelatin in half a cup of water over low heat. Then add the rest of the water. Once again, mix everything thoroughly and pour into a storage container. This mask is enough for several times.
Apply the ready product in a thin layer to the face and leave it for 15 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water and apply moisturizing cream. Such a mask is ideal for women 40+. Smoothes the skin, lines and wrinkles almost completely disappear, skin becomes supple and elastic.
Glycerin + clay
Take half of 1 Tbsp. Spoonfuls of glycerin and 2 tbsp. Spoonfuls of clay (green or blue). Combine the two ingredients. Then add as much lukewarm water as you need to get the consistency of thick sour cream. Gently smooth the mask over your face, avoiding the orbital region. Let the composition stay on the face for about 20 minutes, and then rinse it off with room temperature water. Such a mask tightens the skin well.
Glycerin + Vitamin E
Get glycerin and vitamin E capsules at your local drugstore. Combine these components together. You will need 30 ml of glycerin and 10 tocopherol capsules. Apply the finished product to the skin for 20-25 minutes. Afterwards, wash your face with room temperature water. Tocopherol is known for its revitalizing properties. Together with glycerin, it gives the skin elasticity at the cellular level.
Review of prepackaged beauty products
Our review includes a variety of anti-aging cosmetics that effectively moisturize, smooth and improve the skin’s elasticity. They all have a combined composition, including glycerin.
| Nomination | Location | Name | Price |
| Overview of ready to use cosmetic products | 1 | Vichy express mask | 3 400 € |
| 2 | Gigi Nutri-Peptide Vita | 4 200 € | |
| 3 | Farmstay All-In-One Ampo
| 1 500 € | |
| 4 | L’Oreal Paris Revita Serum | 1 070 € | |
| 5 | ARAVIA Professional Active Professional Hydrating Cream 24H Face Cream | 1 200 € |
Vichy Express Mask
Rating: 4.9
Russian brand Aravia Professional launches a light moisturizing face cream. Its main active ingredients: hyaluronic acid, urea (5%), glycerin, lecithin, panthenol, olive oil. This moisturising complex eliminates the dryness of the epidermis and prevents the loss of moisture “through the skin. This is an excellent demi-seasonal (autumn-spring) product for dry and normal skin.
Such cream copes well with peeling, improves skin elasticity, eliminates irritation and inflammatory elements, fights couperose. The product provides quality hydration with a cumulative effect, protects against premature wrinkles.
