Hey there good lookin’- welcome back to another Skincare ABC’s post!
In today’s post, we will be discussing glycerin, a common skincare and make-up ingredient.
What is Glycerin?
Glycerin (also called glycerol) is a naturally-occurring compound, found in animal and vegetable fats and oils. Glycerol can also be synthesized from carbohydrates such as corn/cane syrup or propylene. The lab-created version is chemically identical to naturally-occurring glycerin. Studies have confirmed that synthetic glycerin is handled identically to naturally-occurring glycerin.
What does it do/Why is it used?
According to the FDA, glycerin is the most frequently used cosmetic ingredient behind water. So what makes glycerin so popular? Glycerin is a well-studied humectant, preventing the premature loss of moisture from skincare/make-up products.
Glycerin is also found naturally in the skin, and its ‘job’ is to help maintain hydration levels. As a skincare ingredient, glycerin is both replenishing and nourishing. Topically, it helps defend the skin against dryness, especially when it is combined with other emollient and replenishing ingredients
You will typically find glycerin in concentrations of 5% or less in products; in conjunction with other hydrating/emollient ingredients. In very large concentrations, glycerin (or other humectants) can pull too much moisture from deeper layers of the skin when there isn’t enough moisture in the environment
What kinds of products contain it?
Just about everything under the sun contains glycerin! The majority of moisturizers and make-up primers both contain glycerin. Ultimately, glycerin is an excellent ingredient for moisturizing the skin, and helping your make-up stay in place all day!
My favorite moisturizers and primers:
Ceramidin Cream ($48) – One of my all-time favorite moisturizers. It’s incredibly rich, and quenches my parched skin during the winter months.
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream ($68) – Another favorite moisturizer! This one is a little lighter and fast-absorbing. I prefer to use it in the morning since it lays well under make-up.
Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer ($42) – An excellent primer for those with drier skin. It gives my skin a little moisture boost, especially when I’m using a drier/more matte foundation.
Becca Backlight Priming Filter Face Primer ($39) – Another amazing primer for dry skin, especially if you like a glowy/dewy look without the shine.
I know this weeks post was a little different from the usual skincare ABC’s post, but I hope you learned something useful about skincare!
Until next time,
Amanda
Follow along on IG: @amandadev4
Amanda Marie Kennedy 