How To Use Glycerin On Face – Benefits And Side Effects

Glycerin is a colorless, odorless, clear, viscous, and water-soluble liquid and is also known as glycerol. This versatile compound has over 1500 uses and is commonly used in beauty and cosmetic products (1). You can use glycerin on the face to improve your look and skin texture.

Glycerin also contains alcohol and sugar compounds derived from animal and plant sources. It is a byproduct of the soap-making process and can provide several benefits to your skin. If you wish to give it a try, it is best to have a clear idea of the ingredient. This article deals with glycerin and how you can use them in your skin care routine. Keep reading to know more about it.

Did You Know?

In skin-cleansing products, glycerin is used in concentrations of up to 99.4%. Followed by up to 79.2% in leave-on products, 47.9% for bathing, 47.3% in hair care, and 40.6% in eye care (7).

Top 5 Benefits Of Glycerin For Skin

1. Helps Moisturize Skin

Glycerin hydrates the outer layer of the skin, particularly during dry and cold weather conditions. It is the most powerful humectantⁱ  A substance found in food or used in haircare and skincare products to reduce the loss of moisture from the skin and hair. in comparison with hyaluronic acidⁱ  A natural gooey substance produced by the body that locks moisture in the skin and the eyes and lubricates joints. , sorbitolⁱ  A type of carbohydrate found in plants and fruits used in cosmetics as a sweetener, a thickener, and a skin-softening agent. , etc. (2). To use it as a moisturizer, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Add two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to 250 ml of glycerin.
• Step 2: Apply this mixture to your face every night before sleeping. You will wake up to dewy, hydrated skin in the morning.

2. May Reduce Signs Of Aging

Glycerin enhances the skin barrier function (3). It also may boost skin elasticity and reduce fine lines and wrinkles over time. Here is a DIY recipe you can try to leverage glycerin’s anti-aging benefits:

• Step 1: Beat an egg white till it is frothy.
• Step 2: Mix a teaspoon each of organic honey and glycerin.
• Step 3: Apply the mixture to the face in an upward, circular motion.
• Step 4: Let it sit for 20 minutes and wash with plain water.

3. May Help Reduce Acne

Glycerin could help protect the skin against irritants and may help prevent acne. However, more research is warranted in this regard. But glycerin is a moisturizer and may help in acne treatment (4).

• Step 1: Mix a tablespoon of glycerin, a tablespoon of rose water, and two tablespoons of turmeric powder in a glass of distilled water.
• Step 2: Stir till you get a smooth paste. Apply to your face and let it dry.
• Step 3. Wash with ice-cold water. This closes the skin pores and may help in acne treatment.

The combination of rosewater and glycerin work together to improve the skin barrier function and prevent skin dryness. At the same time, turmeric adds a healthy glow to your skin.

On the other hand, Anitha, a skincare blogger, after trying the mask made with glycerin, lemon juice, and rose water, expresses, “This pack is my ultimate weapon whenever other solutions didn’t workout or give quick results for my skin problems. I have combination skin and always suffer from lot of pimples on forehead and cheeks, sometimes these pimples are painful as well. Along with these, the marks left by are very much annoying. Hence the only solution which worked (i).”

4. May Help Heal Wounds

Glycerin helps accelerate wound healing. It has strong antimicrobial properties that may fight the infection around wounds (5).

• Step 1: Mix 4 teaspoons of pure fullers earth and a teaspoon of glycerin.
• Step 2: Add a little water to make a smooth paste.
• Step 3: Apply the mixture to your face using your fingers. Do not apply near the mouth or the eye areas.
• Step 4: Let it dry. Wash with plain water.

5. May Promote Skin Glow

Anecdotal evidence suggests that glycerin may help promote skin glow. Here is a homemade glycerin recipe that can help:

• Step 1: Mix half a cup of water with one teaspoon of glycerin.
• Step 2: Add one teaspoon of cold-pressed vegetable oil like sesame, almond, or apricot.
• Step 3: Add a few drops of any essential oil of your choice.
• Step 4: Cool the mixture in a refrigerator and apply it to your face with a cotton pad. Let it sit for about 20 minutes and wash off.

You may also mix vitamin E oil, Vaseline, and glycerin in equal parts and apply the mixture to your face before taking a shower.

You can also use glycerin on your face in various other ways. We have listed them below.

Quick Tip

Glycerin also exfoliates your skin, giving it a smoother texture.

How To Use Glycerin On Face: Top 4 Ways

A. Apply It Directly To Your Face:

• Step 1: Wash your face with cool water and pat dry with a microfiber towel. Make sure your face is a little damp.
• Step 2: Dab some glycerin on a cotton ball. Apply lightly onto your skin.
• Step 3: Do not apply near the mouth or eyes.
• Step 4: Leave it on for about 20 to 30 minutes and wash off.

B. As A Cleanser: Use this DIY glycerin cleanser recipe for cleansing your face.

• Step 1: Mix three teaspoons of milk with a teaspoon of glycerin.
• Step 2: Apply the mixture to your face at night and gently massage it. Wash off in the morning.

C. As A Dirt, Oil, And Makeup Remover:

• Step 1: Mix half a cup of water with one-and-a-half tablespoons each of glycerin and cornflour.
• Step 2: Bring the mixture to a boil until it looks clear.
• Step 3: Dab your face with cool water.
• Step 4: After the mixture has cooled, apply a little on moist skin and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes. Wash with cool water.

D. As A Homemade Toner:

• Step 1: Wash your face.
• Step 2: Dilute a little glycerin with water and dab it on your damp face. This will help tighten your pores.
• Step 3: Next, mix one-fourth cup of glycerin with one-and-a-half cups of rose water. Use this mixture as an effective toning solution.

Fun Fact

In herbal skin care practices, glycerin is used as a preservative and solvent to use with botanical extracts.

Side Effects Of Glycerin

Glycerin does not have any reported side effects as it is mild in nature. That said, there are certain precautionary measures you can take. Since it is a natural product, certain people with sensitive skin might have an allergic reaction. Do a patch test on the insides of your arm prior to applying it to your face. This is to ensure you do not experience

• Redness
• Blisters
• Swelling
• Hives
• Itching
• Rashes

Stop using the product immediately if you observe any of the above-mentioned symptoms.

These are the other precautions you can take:

• Read The Label: Before buying any product containing glycerin, make sure to read the ingredients label carefully to ensure it is of high quality.

• Dilute The Glycerin: Dilute the glycerin with water or rose water before you apply it. Rose water has antioxidant properties and may further help promote skin health (6).

• Wash Off Quickly: Do not leave glycerin on your face for too long as it tends to attract dust and pollution.

• Wear Sunscreen: Glycerin can trigger sun sensitivity. Hence, it is important you wear a sunscreen lotion after applying it to your face.

• You May Choose Vegetable Glycerin: Vegans may have issues using animal-based glycerin You can always use glycerin derived from vegetable oils (like palm, soy, or coconut oils). Make sure to read the label carefully.

After weighing the pros and cons of using glycerin for your face, if you consider trying it out on your skin, you need to know what kind of glycerin products to opt for. Keep reading to learn how to choose the best glycerin products.

What To Look For When Choosing Glycerin Products

When selecting glycerin-based products, consider the following:

• Opt for products containing pure vegetable glycerin as it is gentler on the skin and less likely to irritate.
• Look for products that combine glycerin with other nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin E to enhance their moisturizing and healing properties.
• Steer clear of products containing harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, or dyes, as these can irritate the skin.
• Choose products formulated for your specific skin type. Those with oily skin may benefit from lighter, gel-based formulations, while those with dry skin may prefer richer, cream-based products.
• Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any adverse reactions, before using a new glycerin product widely.

Infographic: 5 Reasons To Use Glycerin For Skin Care

Glycerin is a transparent water-soluble liquid used in various skin care products and home remedies. From preventing acne to reducing signs of aging, it can benefit your skin in many ways. Check out the infographic below to know more about the top reasons for adding glycerin to your skin care routine.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Can glycerin remove dark spots?

No. Glycerin cannot reduce dark spots. However, it may help enhance skin barrier function and overall skin health.

Is glycerin good for lips?

Yes, there are plenty of benefits of using glycerin on the lips. It helps lock in moisture, and hydrates and softens dry and chapped lips.

Can I use glycerin on my face daily?

Yes, it is safe to use glycerin on the face daily. It will help improve skin hydration.

Does glycerin darken skin?

No, glycerin does not darken the skin. It keeps the skin soft and supple.

How to use glycerin on the face at night?

You can apply a few drops of glycerin with your moisturizer to your face at night and wash it off in the morning.

“Glycerin is a miracle ingredient for your skin! Watch the video below to learn how to use it to get a youthful, tight, spotless, and scar-free texture.”

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Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Dr. Monali PattnaikMBBS, MD, DNB, MRCPSCE (UK)

   

Dr. Monali Pattnaik is a skin specialist with 11 years of experience. After finishing her MBBS from MKCG Medical College, Berhampur, she did her MD in Skin & VD from SCB Medical College, Cuttack. Her thirst for knowledge propelled her to pursue another degree in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology from NBE (Diplomate of National Board).

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Arshiya SyedaCo-Editor-in-Chief

 

Arshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.

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Ramona SinhaEditor

Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.

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Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

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