Do you ever look at the list of ingredients in your care products and wonder what it all means? Glycerine, also known as Glycerin, is a very common ingredient in care products and cosmetics. Simply put, Glycerin is a moisturizing ingredient that helps with hydration. But what actually is glycerine? What does it mean for your skin? Why would you buy a product containing glycerine? And why is it used so much? In this blog series, we dive deeper into the ingredients of our favorite products. Are you looking for a care product with plant-based glycerine? Then you have come to the right webshop. Read on.
Table of contents
#1 What is glycerine?
#2 Under what names can I find plant-based glycerine on the packaging?
#3 What are the benefits of glycerine for your skin?
#4 Which products contain plant-based glycerine?
#5 What is the difference between glycerine and glycerol?
#6 Which of these benefits of plant-based glycerine would you like to take advantage of?
#1 What is glycerine?
Glycerin is a colorless, viscous (syrupy) liquid known for its moisturizing properties. It is a versatile ingredient used in cosmetics, skincare, and also pharmaceutical products. Glycerine is a moisture-retaining ingredient, which is also described as a “humectant.” This means that it attracts and retains moisture. This makes it a widely used ingredient in products such as moisturizers and creams. Thanks to the gentle and non-irritating properties of glycerine, it is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin!
Is glycerine a natural product?
Glycerine can be produced both naturally and synthetically. Synthetic glycerine, on the other hand, is produced from petroleum or through chemical processes. Plant-based glycerine, by contrast, is obtained by heating fats and oils (such as coconut or palm oil) under pressure, which separates the glycerine from the fatty acids. This process is often used in soap production.
#2 Under what names can I find plant-based glycerine on the packaging?
Not every package is the same. Glycerine can appear on packaging under various names, depending on the type of product and the industry. We have listed the names for you:
- Glycerol (this is the pure form, as explained earlier)
- Glycerin (English spelling, often used in cosmetics)
- E422 (as an additive in food)
- Propane-1,2,3-triol (chemical name)
- Vegetable Glycerin (specifically plant-based glycerine)
- Pharmaceutical Glycerine (in medical products)
In cosmetic ingredient lists, it is often referred to as Glycerin. In food products, E422 is the most common designation. Also check for terms like "natural moisturizer" or "plant-based softener," which may indicate glycerine. Are you curious about facial care products with plant-based glycerine? You will find them at Grace is Green. Always tested for sustainability.
#3 What are the benefits of glycerine for your skin?
Are you considering buying a product with glycerine? Glycerine is a powerful moisturizing ingredient and therefore offers many benefits for your skin:
- Intense hydration – Glycerine attracts moisture from the air and helps retain it in the skin. This prevents dehydration, making your skin wonderfully soft! Just like with the Derma Eco hand cream.
- Protection of the skin barrier – The extra layer of cream containing glycerin forms a protective layer on the skin, thereby reducing moisture loss. It also helps to strengthen your natural skin barrier!
- Soothing effect – Glycerin is gentle on the skin, even for people with skin irritations or sensitive skin. Because of the extra hydration, it provides a soothing effect.
- Anti-aging effect – Glycerine helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles by keeping the skin well-hydrated and maintaining the moisture balance. This makes it look more radiant!
#4 Which products contain plant-based glycerine?
Glycerin is an ingredient commonly found in care products. It can be found in a wide range of skin and hair care products. Here are a few examples:
- Face creams and moisturizers – Helps keep the skin hydrated and supple; also often found in anti-aging creams due to its moisture-balancing effect.
- Body lotions and Derma Eco hand creams – These products often contain glycerine to repair dry and chapped skin.
- Soap and shower gels – Glycerine prevents the skin from drying out after washing. As a result, soap with glycerine keeps your skin balanced.
- Shampoo and conditioners – Glycerine helps maintain the moisture content of the hair and scalp and is therefore often added to hair care products.
- Lip care – Lip balms often contain glycerine to keep lips soft and hydrated. Ideal for dry winter days or when your lips feel chapped from the sun!
Check out the natural care products with plant-based glycerine here!
#5 What is the difference between glycerine and glycerol?
Sometimes it can be confusing, and the terms glycerol and glycerin are sometimes used interchangeably. We often mean the same thing, but there is a slight, subtle difference.
- Glycerol is the chemical name for the sugar alcohol and describes the pure chemical component.
- Glycerine is the commercial name for a mixture that primarily consists of glycerol, but may also contain some water and other substances.
For the pharmaceutical and chemical industry, the pure substance glycerol is used, while in practice, glycerin is used in cosmetics, medicines, and food. When you look at the packaging of your product, you will therefore usually see the word "glycerine." In summary: glycerol is the pure substance, while glycerine is a mixture in which glycerol forms the most important component.
View products with plant-based glycerine
#6 Which of these benefits of plant-based glycerine would you like to take advantage of?
In short, glycerin is an essential ingredient that makes a huge contribution to skin hydration. Both synthetic and plant-based glycerine offer many benefits for your skin! Glycerin boosts your skin's health, strengthens your skin barrier, protects it against dehydration, soothes sensitive skin, and makes your skin shine again! Do you want to experience the benefits of glycerine for yourself? Will you go for a nice, soothing skin cream or a moisturizing face cream? Choose a product that is gentle on your skin and the environment.
Order your care products with plant-based glycerine at Grace is Green now and give your skin a gift.