Glycerin
Also known as: Glycerol, Glycerine
What It Is
A simple polyol compound and one of the most widely used humectants in skincare.
What It Does
Draws moisture to the skin, helps maintain hydration, and reinforces the skin barrier.
Best For
Benefits
- Excellent humectant — draws and retains moisture
- Non-comedogenic
- Gentle and suitable for sensitive skin
- Widely tolerated with very low irritation potential
When to Be Careful
- Very high concentrations (undiluted) can draw moisture out of skin in dry climates
Glycerin is in almost every moisturizer ever made — and with good reason. It's affordable, effective, non-irritating, and works for every skin type. The skincare community rediscovered it during the "skincare minimalism" movement as a reliable standalone ingredient.
Glycerin is sometimes dismissed as a "filler ingredient" — it isn't. It is one of the most well-researched humectants in cosmetic science and does real, documented hydration work.
Part of your hydration step — serum, toner, or moisturizer. Works morning and evening.
All skin types. Especially good for oily skin because it hydrates without adding heaviness.
In a very dry climate, apply glycerin-based products to damp skin and follow with a moisturizer to prevent it drawing moisture from the skin instead.
Not applicable at normal skincare concentrations.