What concentration of Glycerin is effective?

Typical effective concentrations of Glycerin are 1–3% minimum effective, 10% optimal for most formulations, 20–40% for severely dry skin conditions.

What skin types is Glycerin suitable for?

Glycerin is suitable for all skin types, dry skin, sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, mature skin.

The Skin Formulary

Ingredients Brands Journal Shop

Browse Products

Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams

Formula IngredientHumectant

Glycerin

Q: Can Glycerin cause skin irritation?

Glycerin has a low irritation risk. Irritancy rating of 0 — one of the least irritating cosmetic ingredients. No known Annex II or III restrictions in EU CosIng. Pure undiluted glycerin (99.7%) should be avoided as it may draw water from deeper skin layers, but at typical cosmetic concentrations it is well tolerated by all skin types.

Q: Is Glycerin safe to use during pregnancy?

Glycerin is rated "safe" for pregnancy use. Glycerin is a skin-identical ingredient with a well-established safety record. It is widely considered safe during pregnancy. No reproductive or developmental concerns are noted in available safety data.

Q: Does Glycerin increase sun sensitivity?

Glycerin has a no sun sensitivity risk. Glycerin does not increase photosensitivity. No special sun protection measures are required when using glycerin-containing products.

INCI: Glycerin

Glycerin (also known as glycerol) is a naturally occurring polyhydric alcohol found in the outermost layer of human skin. It works as a powerful humectant by drawing water from the environment and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum, and also helps maintain healthy cell membranes and intracellular lipids. It has been used safely in cosmetics for over 50 years.

What does this do in a formula?

moisturisation, skin barrier repair, protection against irritation, normalising skin shedding, hydration

Is Glycerin safe? Key considerations

Can Glycerin cause irritation?

Low Risk

Irritancy rating of 0 — one of the least irritating cosmetic ingredients. No known Annex II or III restrictions in EU CosIng. Pure undiluted glycerin (99.7%) should be avoided as it may draw water from deeper skin layers, but at typical cosmetic concentrations it is well tolerated by all skin types.

Does Glycerin increase sun sensitivity?

No Risk

Glycerin does not increase photosensitivity. No special sun protection measures are required when using glycerin-containing products.

Is Glycerin safe during pregnancy?

Safe

Glycerin is a skin-identical ingredient with a well-established safety record. It is widely considered safe during pregnancy. No reproductive or developmental concerns are noted in available safety data.