Active ingredient
Glycerin
INCIGlycerin
as-formulatedTypical concentration
Last reviewed by BIOSAR Scientific Team, PharmD, Cosmetic Chemistry, Pharmacy practice on .
What it is
Glycerin is a small triol humectant used in nearly every category of skincare to draw water into the stratum corneum. It binds water molecules at the cell surface, plumps the look of the skin, and supports barrier recovery in dry or compromised conditions. Effective at 3% to 20% in serums, lotions, masks, and cleansers. Pairs broadly with most actives. No major conflicts.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Safe
Considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Topical glycerin is considered safe during pregnancy and lactation per Mother to Baby and Trivedi et al. (2017). It is one of the most universally tolerated humectants in cosmetic use.
Mechanism in detail
What Glycerin does
Humectant that attracts water to the skin. Core hydrating ingredient across face, body, and baby formulas.
Evidence
What the research says
- +59%Glycerin floods thirsty skin with lasting moistureIn a randomized assessor-blinded study, a moisturizing fluid containing glycerin raised skin hydration by +59% after just one hour versus baseline. The boost stayed measurable at +48% by 8 hours and +29% at 24 hours.Read the study →Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2017
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