Glycerin – Moisturizer & barrier protection for the skin

What is glycerin?

Glycerin (also called glycerol) is a trivalent alcohol that occurs naturally in fats and oils. Glycerin has been used in skin care for many decades because it effectively binds moisture and can penetrate deep into the skin—and is considered very well tolerated ¹ .

How does glycerin work on the skin?

• Moisture retention: Glycerin is a powerful humectant that draws water from the environment and from deeper skin layers into the epidermis and retains it there ² .
• Barrier support: It strengthens the skin barrier by mitigating the lipid-damaging effects of surfactants and improving elasticity ² .
• Skin compatibility: Glycerin is hypoallergenic and very suitable for sensitive skin ³ .

Skin conditions where glycerin is particularly useful

• Dry skin: Improves hydration and skin feel.
• Sensitive skin & eczema: Strengthens the skin barrier and soothes irritations ⁴ .
• Acne types: Light, moisturizing formulas prevent pores from clogging.

Scientifically proven benefits

A German source from the Apotheker-Zeitung emphasizes that glycerin binds moisture and keeps the skin supple, provided the formulations are stable ⁵ . Physiogel also emphasizes its stimulating effect on the skin barrier, especially in cases of atopic dermatitis ⁶ .

How is glycerin used in skin care?

It is recommended for use in low to medium concentrations in moisturizers, toners, or serums. In dry ambient conditions, glycerin should be combined with occlusive ingredients (e.g., lipids) to avoid a drying effect ² .

Conclusion

Glycerin is a proven, effective active ingredient for moisturizing and barrier protection. Well-tolerated and versatile, it's ideal for any skin routine, especially in luxury skincare with *NATURFACTOR* formulations that combine effectiveness and elegance.

Sources

1. OlioNatura – Glycerin as an active ingredient in skin care. https://olionatura.de/kosmetikrohstoffe/wirkstoffe/glycerin/
2. Typology Magazine (German) – Benefits of Glycerin in Skincare. https://de.typology.com/magazin/welche-vorteile-hat-glycerin-fur-die-haut
3. La Roche-Posay (German) – Glycerin as part of the Natural Moisturizing Factor. https://www.larocheposay.de/inhaltsstoffe-in-unserer-hautpflege/glycerin
4. Doctorderma.de – Therapeutic use of glycerin for skin problems. https://doctorderma.de/rezept/glycerin/
5. German Pharmacist Newspaper – Glycerin as an ingredient in numerous basic therapeutics. https://www.deutsche-apotheker-zeitung.de/news/artikel/2023/10/06/glycerin-wissenswertes-zum-inhaltsstoff-nbsp-vieler-basistherapeutika
6. Physiogel (German) – Glycerin for skin barrier regeneration. https://physiogel.de/inhaltsstoffe/glycerin/