Glycerin

A so-called trivalent alcohol. It’s actually called glycerol or 1,2,3-propanetriol – the suffix “-ol” refers to the substance group “alcohol” to which it belongs. In cosmetics, it primarily has 2 functions: on the one hand, it is considered a humectant, which are substances that retain moisture in the product itself and ensure that the gel or paste does not dry out.

Its main use is as a moisture-binding (hydrating) raw material that binds the water contained in the product and applied, but also humidity and holds it on the skin. In this way, it reduces the skin’s own water loss, which can lead to dry skin conditions.

The special thing about glycerin, especially in comparison to other hydrating substances, is that it penetrates deeper into the horny layer after application and cannot be washed out as easily as e.g.
urea, sodium PCA or sodium lactate. In this way, it reduces the drying and irritant effect of surfactants (detergent substances) and emulsifiers (auxiliaries to mix and stabilize oil and water). Cleaning products such as shower gels, cleansing milk or shampoos therefore usually have higher amounts of glycerin added to them.

In cosmetic products, it increases the elasticity of the skin, makes it soft and protects it from drying out and irritation caused by contact with surfactants. In addition to the properties described, it has other positive effects: It has a stabilizing effect on emulsion structures and reduces, among other things, the so-called water activity. This means that microorganisms withdraw a portion of the freely available water that they need for their reproduction. Seen in this way, glycerine plays a part in the preservation concept of a cosmetic product and supports other preservatives in their work.

We have incorporated the glycerine into all of our products, except of;
LIPID Oil Balm