The vast majority of us think of hyaluronic acid when we talk about hydration. Not without reason, it is the most popular. However, there is life beyond it, and one of the least known ingredients in this regard is glycerin. “If I had to choose an unjustly undervalued molecule, it would probably be glycerin,” says Hector Nuñez, a pharmacist known as Cosmeticocrítico.
It is present in countless cosmetic formulas and is one of the most studied moisturizing actives. “Comparative studies show that both glycerin and hyaluronic acid are effective at hydrating the skin, but glycerin tends to offer hydration and barrier function recovery faster.”
On the other hand, glycerin shares many of the action mechanisms of hyaluronic acid. “It reduces transepidermal water loss, retains water in the skin, stabilizes the lipid phase and promotes the production of proteins related to barrier function.” In other words, “it’s a much more economical and common ingredient,” versatile, highly tolerable for all skin types (including the most sensitive or delicate) and you can find it in serums, creams, shampoos and even cleansers. There is little more you can ask of it.
Glycerin-containing cosmetics I recommend
Absolute Eye Re-Master by Cosmetocrítico.
Absolute Eye Re-Master by Cosmetocrítico. It is one of the most complete products, an eye contour with 0.01% retinol that improves wrinkles, firmness, texture, puffiness and vascular and pigmented dark circles while repairing and hydrating (thanks to glycerin) and providing antioxidants. It is fragrance-free, vegan-friendly and suitable for sensitive skin.
C-Vit Hydrating Facial Cream by Sesderma.
C-Vit Hydrating Facial Cream by Sesderma is a moisturizing cream, especially suitable for fatigued, dull and matte skin. Its action prevents photoaging and provides firmness, elasticity, smoothness, radiance and luminosity. Suitable for all skin types, its texture is light and quickly absorbed.
Cerave SA Smoothing Cleanser.
Cerave SA Smoothing Cleanser is an exfoliating and hydrating cleansing gel that helps calm and smooth damaged, dry, uneven and rough body skin. Its dermatologist-developed formula contains urea, LHA and salicylic acid. It also includes glycerin and its three essential ceramides for intense hydration.
Cicalfate+ Avène Protective Cream.
Cicalfate+ Avène Protective Cream protects and promotes repair of irritated skin for the entire family. It is a multi-use cream with fast absorption that calms the effects of daily damage to the epidermis and supports regeneration.
Centella Cleansing Foam by mixsoon.
Centella Cleansing Foam by mixsoon. Gentle due to its low pH value (3.0 – 5.0), this cleanser calms the skin with the balancing power of centella asiatica extract. It is enriched with Alteromonas, an Antarctic microorganism-fermented extract, and ceramides to cleanse effectively while boosting the skin barrier.
Pure Glycerin Face Serum by Transparent Lab.
Pure Glycerin Face Serum by Transparent Lab. Ideal for dry and dehydrated skin, this hydrating facial serum with 15% glycerin hydrates and nourishes your skin deeply, providing the level of protection and softness it needs from the very first application.
