Glycerin
A small-molecule humectant that occurs naturally in the skin's NMF (natural moisturising factor). Cheap, effective, universally tolerated.
Hygroscopic; pulls water from the environment and lower epidermis into the stratum corneum, stabilising 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 moisturisers 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.
Sign up to see how Glycerin fits your skin archetype and personalised protocol.
3 studies from the Intelligence Vault that discuss Glycerin.
- expert opinion · Front PhysiolLinoleic acid concentration at the air-liquid interface is key for optimal incorporation into skin model lipidome.
- expert opinion · J Drugs DermatolDecoding Sensitive Skin Syndrome: International Expert Advisory Insights on Management From India and the United States of America.
- rct · Sci RepEffects of diacylglycerol-enriched alpha-linolenic acid oil on skin properties in mild skin discomfort: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.