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Some say glycerin dries out the skin and is just a cheap filler, while brands insist it’s “pure” and “plant-based” (of course). But what’s the truth? How does glycerin actually affect your skin, and when should you embrace it in your skincare routine?
Fun fact: Glycerin is naturally found in your skin’s sebum (technically, triglycerides break down into glycerin). If your skin lacks it, moisture levels drop.
But can adding it to a cream magically erase dryness?
As always, the answer isn’t black and white – it’s all about balance. In the right amount (5–7%), glycerin can help your skin stay hydrated. But too much? It acts like a sponge, pulling moisture out of your skin instead of locking it in, disrupting your skin barrier.
Why Does Your Skin Need Glycerin?
Glycerin is essential for a truly effective hydration system. Aquaporins transport water into skin cells, and glycerin helps make that process smoother. The best part? Your body already knows how to get glycerin naturally from the fats you eat.
So, Does Glycerin Hydrate or Dry Out the Skin?
There’s no denying that glycerin-based lotions make your skin feel hydrated. But here’s the catch – the effect is often temporary, meaning you have to keep reapplying.
How Can You Tell How Much Glycerin Is in a Product?
Check the ingredient list. Ingredients are listed in descending order of concentration. In creams, the first ingredient is usually a water phase (like water or hydrolat), followed by an oil phase. Now, if glycerin is second on the list, there’s probably too much of it. Your skin might feel hydrated at first, but in a few hours? It’s back to dryness, and you’ll want to reapply (a sneaky trick some hand cream brands use – you see where we’re going with this).
Sadly, many brands overload their creams, serums, and cleansing oils with glycerin, creating a cycle where your skin needs constant moisture – a vicious cycle you didn’t sign up for.
But it’s not just glycerin. Mineral oils like petroleum jelly and paraffin create an occlusive layer that blocks skin communication with nerve endings. This slows down regeneration, and over time, your skin literally forgets how to function on its own.
Your Mission
Grab your cream, check the ingredients, and see if glycerin is second on the list or if it contains mineral oils.
Looking for skincare that actually works? Check out CREAMLY collection, especially THE CREAMS – hydration without the tricks.💛
