Glycerin, also known as glycerol, is a clear, odorless, viscous liquid and a humectant. This means it attracts and retains moisture. Glycerin water is a diluted form, suitable for direct application, and is a common ingredient in personal care products due to its moisturizing properties.
Benefits for Skin and Hair
As a humectant, glycerin draws moisture from the air and deeper skin layers into the outermost layer, enhancing hydration. This helps keep skin hydrated and supports its natural barrier function, defending against irritants and preventing moisture loss.
For the skin, glycerin acts as an effective moisturizer, helping to alleviate dryness and flakiness by restoring moisture balance. It also contributes to improved skin texture, making it feel smoother and more supple. Glycerin is non-comedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores, and its gentle nature makes it suitable for sensitive skin.
Regarding hair, glycerin helps to hydrate dry and brittle strands by locking in moisture. This can lead to reduced frizz, making hair smoother and more manageable. Glycerin’s moisturizing effects also extend to the scalp, helping to soothe dryness, reduce itchiness, and maintain overall scalp health, which promotes healthier hair.
How to Prepare and Use Glycerin Water
Preparing glycerin water involves proper dilution to ensure effectiveness and avoid stickiness or irritation. A common ratio is one part glycerin to three or four parts distilled or filtered water. For individuals with sensitive skin, a more diluted mixture, such as one part glycerin to six parts water, may be suitable.
For skin application, glycerin water can be sprayed onto damp skin after cleansing. It can also be mixed with a toner or a small amount added to your regular moisturizer to enhance hydration.
When using glycerin water for hair, it can be applied as a leave-in conditioner by spraying it onto damp hair and combing through for even distribution. Alternatively, it can be used as a pre-shampoo treatment or mixed into your regular conditioner to boost its moisturizing benefits. Some also incorporate it as a styling aid to manage frizz and add shine.
Important Considerations for Use
The effectiveness of glycerin can be influenced by environmental humidity levels. In moderately humid conditions, glycerin draws moisture from the air into the skin and hair, providing excellent hydration. However, in very dry environments, it may draw moisture from the deeper layers of the skin or hair into the air, potentially leading to dehydration or a sticky sensation.
Proper dilution is important to prevent adverse effects. Using pure, undiluted glycerin directly on skin or hair can result in stickiness or irritation due to its strong hygroscopic nature. Concentrations above 30% can have a drying effect and may irritate mucous membranes. Most commercial products contain glycerin at concentrations around 10% to 20%.
Before widespread application, it is advisable to perform a patch test, especially for individuals with sensitive skin. Apply a small amount of the diluted glycerin water to an inconspicuous area of skin, such as behind the ear or on the inner forearm, and observe for any signs of irritation, redness, or itching for at least 24 to 48 hours. Store glycerin water in a cool, dark place to maintain its stability.