Glycerin for skin – Is it better than hyaluronic acid?

Glycerin or glycerol is a natural compound derived from vegetable oils or animal fats. It is one of the most effective humectants out there.

• It protects the skin against irritation (for e.g. from over-cleansing, over-exfoliating, or from using strong retinoids).

• It acts as a humectant by retaining water in the skin.

• It improves wound healing.

• It may help with acne.

• It can help with fine lines and wrinkles by moisturizing the skin.

• It plays an important role in maintaining skin barrier function.

• Higher concentrations can be helpful for conditions like eczema.

It can be sticky when used in higher concentrations.

Glycerin just like hyaluronic acid is suitable for all skin types including eczema, psoriasis, sensitive skin, and skin of colour.

• Hyaluronic acid
• Peptides
• Ceramides
• Retinol
• AHA/BHA/PHA’s
• Niacinamide
• Vitamin C
• Azelaic acid
• Centella Asiatica

Studies show that glycerin mixed with hyaluronic acid and Centella Asiatica gave 24-hour skin hydration and barrier function effects.

• Glycerin is available in almost every skincare product like face washes, cleansers, moisturizers, hand creams, and many more.

• You can apply glycerin after applying your exfoliants and skincare actives. Then finish it off a moisturizer and sunscreen.

• If you live in a highly humid environment, you can apply glycerin without a moisturizer.

• If you live in low- humidity environment, apply glycerin after a bath or shower, and then apply a moisturizer of your choice

No, glycerin does not cause purging, it works as a humectant by drawing moisture from the air into your skin.

If you live in a low-humid area, then applying glycerin will make it draw moisture from the deeper layers of your skin since there is no moisture in the air. So glycerin will make your skin drier.

If you have an allergic reaction to this ingredient, then it causes dryness, flakiness, burning sensation, irritation, and redness.

Glycerine cannot cause milia or remove milia, they only moisturize your skin and act as a humectant. The only ingredients that can remove milia are retinol and exfoliants.

Glycerin is non-comedogenic, it does not clog pores.

Yes, glycerin is a good option for perioral dermatitis if you’re allergic to hyaluronic acid. It can help to moisturize, improve wound healing, and repair your skin barrier.