Glycerin
A small-molecule humectant that occurs naturally in the skin's NMF (natural moisturizing factor). Cheap, effective, universally tolerated.
Hygroscopic; pulls water from the environment and lower epidermis into the stratum corneum, stabilizing barrier lipids.
- Universal hydrator
- Improves barrier
- Non-comedogenic
- Calms tightness
- Reinforces NMF
What the evidence supports.
- All skin types
No notable contraindications reported.
Mid-routine serum or treatment step.
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 3%–20%
Year-round; raise concentration in winter for dehydrated skin.
Endogenous in fat metabolism; dietary fats support skin glycerol stores.
- Surface dryness
- Skin tightness after cleansing
10%+ glycerin in moisturizers significantly outperforms minimal glycerin formulations.
- Loden 2003, glycerin restored stratum corneum hydration faster than petrolatum in dry skin
The research behind Glycerin.
Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.
Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2014
Cutis, 2006
No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.
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3 studies from the Intelligence Vault that discuss Glycerin.
- rct · J Drugs DermatolA Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Vehicle-Controlled Study Evaluating the Efficacy, Safety, and Patient Satisfaction of Tretinoin 0.05% Lotion for Chest Rejuvenation.
- systematic review · Kidney Blood Press ResErratum.
- rct · Sci RepEffects of diacylglycerol-enriched alpha-linolenic acid oil on skin properties in mild skin discomfort: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.