SKIN ATLAS · ACTIVE INGREDIENTS · 5 MIN. READ

Glycerin: Moisturizer and Barrier Protection for the Skin

Glycerin (also called glycerol) is one of the most widely used active ingredients in modern skincare. As a proven humectant, it effectively binds moisture, strengthens the skin barrier, and is very well tolerated by almost all skin types.

What is Glycerin?

Glycerin (glycerol) is a trihydric alcohol naturally found in fats and oils. It has been used in skincare for decades – according to La Roche-Posay, glycerin is a component of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor and thus a physiologically relevant active ingredient. As it is considered hypoallergenic, it is equally suitable for sensitive and dry skin types.

Effects and Benefits

Glycerin acts as a humectant: It draws water molecules from the surrounding air and deeper skin layers into the epidermis and holds them there. At the same time, glycerin strengthens the skin barrier by mitigating lipid-damaging effects of surfactants and improving skin elasticity.

The Deutsche Apotheker-Zeitung emphasizes that glycerin is considered an ingredient in numerous basic therapeutics: It binds moisture, keeps the skin supple, and also shows a supportive effect on the skin barrier in neurodermatitis – without aggressive effects.

Application and Combination

Glycerin is used in low to medium concentrations in moisturizers, toners, and serums. It can be applied morning and evening; an acclimatization phase is not necessary. In very dry ambient air, a combination with occlusive active ingredients such as lipids is recommended so that glycerin does not, conversely, draw moisture from the skin.

The combination with hyaluronic acid is particularly effective: Both humectants synergistically transport and retain moisture in the skin. Glycerin also combines well with ceramides, peptides, and antioxidants, helping to enhance their nourishing effects.

Who is Glycerin suitable for?

• Dry Skin: Glycerin sustainably improves hydration and skin feel and can help reduce feelings of tightness.
• Sensitive Skin and Eczema: Glycerin strengthens the skin barrier and soothes irritations; it is also often used for neurodermatitis.
• Blemished and Acne-Prone Skin: Light formulations with glycerin are non-comedogenic and do not clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glycerin

Can glycerin dry out the skin?

In very dry ambient air, high concentrations of glycerin can draw moisture from deeper skin layers rather than from the air. The combination with occlusive active ingredients such as lipids prevents this effect by trapping moisture in the skin.

Is glycerin suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes. Glycerin is considered hypoallergenic and is one of the best-tolerated ingredients in skincare. It does not irritate the skin and is also used for neurodermatitis and eczema.

How does glycerin differ from hyaluronic acid?

Both are humectants that bind moisture in the skin. Glycerin is smaller and penetrates deeper into the epidermis, while hyaluronic acid primarily forms a moisture-binding film on the skin surface. In combination, both active ingredients complement each other ideally.

Conclusion

Glycerin is a proven and versatile active ingredient for moisturization and barrier protection – well-tolerated, widely applicable, and scientifically sound. It belongs in every effective skincare routine, especially in highly effective formulations like NATURFACTOR's Porcelain Skin Serum.

References

1. La Roche-Posay – Glycerin as part of the Natural Moisturizing Factor
2. Deutsche Apotheker-Zeitung – Glycerin as an ingredient in numerous basic therapeutics